The July 29 voyage to the Herring Bay Oyster Sanctuary, an artificial reef initiative site, was made with the purpose of deploying nearly 80 oyster reef balls meant to reestablish the declining oyster population in the Bay.
Oysters are a vital part of the oceanic ecosystem for their ability to filter and clean water and attract more oceanic wildlife, which will ultimately boost recreational fishing in the Chesapeake Bay.
Each 300-pound concrete oyster reef ball lowered into the bay is equipped with several holes that provide a safe habitat for fish, crabs, and other aquatic life to hide in, according to a press release from the Chesapeake Bay Foundation.