The DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife is responsible for managing state-owned natural oyster beds in Delaware Bay. The Division works to ensure the long-term sustainable yield from what may be the most sensitive marine habitat in Delaware Bay.

Delaware’s oyster beds have supported an important commercial fishery for well over 100 years.

More than 1,000 acres of natural oyster bottom are found in an area extending north from Port Mahon to Woodland Beach. These oyster beds serve as critical fisheries habitat, filter sediment from the water column and support a significant commercial oyster fishery.

The reef-building characteristics of oysters increases habitat complexity, which supports many fish and invertebrate species that depend on this habitat for survival.

For more information, please contact Fisheries Program Manager Richard Wong at Richard.Wong@delaware.gov or 302-735-2960.

Finding a Balance

State biologists must balance the needs of the commercial fishing industry with the need to maintain this essential habitat.

The Division of Fish and Wildlife monitors Delaware’s oyster population through an annual dredge survey, conducted in October of each year. The dredge survey allows the State to assess the health of the oyster stock and to set sustainable annual harvest quotas for the fishery.

With ongoing research and monitoring, state biologists work to meet a priority to preserve this historic fishery and maritime community and protect an ecologically important habitat.