Yesterday Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam celebrated the Commonwealth’s approval of $10 million in bond financing for oyster reef restoration in Virginia waters and praised the completion of oyster reef habitat construction in the Eastern Branch of the Elizabeth River.
Chesapeake Bay Foundation Virginia Executive Director Peggy Sanner issued the following statement.
“Oyster reefs filter water, create key habitat for the fish and crabs we eat, and can provide natural protection for at-risk shorelines. Using bond financing to support oyster restoration is an innovative step that recognizes the long-term benefits oyster reefs have for our communities and economy. We are grateful to Governor Northam and legislators in the General Assembly for making this substantial investment.
““We are also thrilled that the Eastern Branch of the Elizabeth River has become the second tributary in Virginia to reach oyster reef habitat goals. We look forward to working with partners to continue restoring oysters in other rivers. This is another step that supports the Chesapeake Oyster Alliance’s efforts to add 10 billion oysters to the Bay.”
