MacDill's Oyster Reef

These oyster domes, placed by MacDill volunteers during the Oyster Reef Project held Dec. 12 here, are 24 inches in diameter and 18 inches tall and weigh 75 pounds. This is a continuation of a community-based restoration project that began in 2003. These reef balls are well suited for the establishment of oyster which are common along the shoreline here and throughtout Tampa, they are marine-friendly, hollow, concrete oyster domes that will provide shoreline stabilization for the currently eroding coastline and habitat for marine life. Oyster dome communities provide envoirmental enhancement in the form of hard-bottom habitats for fish and wildlife resources. The goal of the Tampa Bay Watch?s Community Oyster Reef Enhancement program is to increase the oyster population in the Tampa Bay and at the same time, provide habitats for small organisms, prevent shoreline erosion, improve water quality and promote fish and wildlife habitats. The CORE programs primarily use two types of material to construct oyster habitats: Lo-Pro Reef balls and Oyster shell bags. This project benefits the Tampa Bay community by promoting environmental awareness and offers a hands-on experience in habitat restoration.