SCDNR News Release

#06–319 November 20, 2006

Oyster shell recyling drop-off locations are in coastal counties

The S.C. Department of Natural Resources reminds the public that oyster shell recycling drop-off locations are located in all South Carolina coastal counties.

Every shell that is recycled locally is cycled back into the estuarine environment by the S.C. Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) Shell Recycling and Restoration Program, which helps to restore shellfish grounds in coastal South Carolina. To sustain recreational and commercial oyster harvests, it’s important for harvesters and oyster roast participants to remember to recycle their shells. Refer to the following information for answers to frequently asked questions regarding oyster shell recycling:

The DNR maintains 16 oyster shell recycling drop-off sites. Visit http://saltwaterfishing.sc.gov/oyster.html to find the nearest location.
The DNR will pick up allotments of recycled oyster shells that exceed 20 bushels. To arrange for a pick-up of recycled shells, call the DNR’s Shell Recycling and Restoration Program at (843) 953-9854 in Charleston.
To request State Shellfish Grounds maps and Public Shellfish Grounds maps, call the map request line, (843) 953-9854.
If conditions warrant closures for specific shellfish areas, postings will be available through the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC). You may also call DHEC in Charleston, (843) 740-1590; in Beaufort, (843) 846-1030; and in Georgetown / Myrtle Beach, (843) 448-1902.

Additional questions may be directed to Oyster Recycling and Restoration Program Coordinator Andy Jennings at (843) 953-9396, or Assistant Program Coordinator Jason Comer at (843) 953-9397.

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