Alabama's Marine Resources Division (MRD), under Section 9-12-28 of the Code of Alabama 1975 and Rule 220-3-.02, has officially announced the closure of all public water bottoms to oyster harvest at 2 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 19 according to a news release.

The Oyster Harvest Season in Review

Opening on Oct. 2, 2023, Alabama's public oyster reefs witnessed a productive harvest season. The collaboration between MRD, the Alabama Department of Public Health, commercial oyster catchers and seafood dealers has contributed positively to the management of Alabama's oyster resources.

Upon the closure on Jan. 19, the management zones will have been accessible for harvest for a duration of 75 days. Throughout this period, over 32,000 sacks of oysters will have been harvested, amounting to nearly 2.7 million pounds, with an estimated dockside value exceeding $1.2 million.

Scott Bannon, Director of MRD, expressed satisfaction with the season's success, building upon achievements from the past four years. While anticipating a harvest volume similar to the previous season, challenges arose with oyster drills causing mortality on the reef, particularly in higher salinity conditions.

"This season has been very successful and built on the successes of the previous four years," Bannon said.  "We anticipated the number of sacks harvested to be similar to last season but we did have some mortality on the reef from oyster drills, a predatory snail that thrives when salinity levels are higher. Harvester participation was lower than last year with an average of 83 per day compared to 164 for the 2022 season. Harvest averaged 460 sacks per day which is approximately 39,000 pounds of oysters per day.

“Utilizing our harvest grid system, we were able to monitor small areas and appropriately close them for sustainability, while keeping harvesters working more days in other locations. Accurate harvest reporting was a vital part of the season’s length. I appreciate the reporting efforts of the harvesters and the efforts of our staff to effectively monitor and manage the season. The dockside price paid per pound of oysters was more variable than last year but harvesters were able to harvest and sell their catch for a profit which is beneficial to the families and the local economy.”

ADCNR promotes wise stewardship, management, and enjoyment of Alabama’s natural resources through four divisions: Marine Resources, State Lands, State Parks and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. For more information, visit www.outdooralabama.com.