News
A New Jersey Shore Town Has Turned to Oysters to Fight Sea Level Rise and Erosion
The “coastal ecosystem engineers” are thriving in man-made reefs of concrete and recycled shells that protect coastlines here and in at least 10 other states from storm surges and rising waters.
By Emilie Lounsberry
LONG BEACH TOWNSHIP, N.J.—Every year, hungry restaurant patrons slurp down fat, juicy oysters, their greyish-white shells cast aside with little thought. But here on this picturesque barrier island, the crusty shells are a valuable commodity and are hauled away by township workers, sorted by volunteers and destined for a whole new life.