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Research Publications: UM-SG-RS-2010-21
Title:
A cultural model assessment of oyster restoration alternatives for the Chesapeake BayYear:
2010Authors:
Paolisso, M; Dery, NSource:
Human Organization 69 ( 2 ) : 169 - 179DOI:
0018-7259/10/020169-11$1.60/1Abstract:
In this article, we argue for integrating a formal, well-specified cultural assessment into social or environmental impact assessments. We present the findings of a cultural model assessment of oyster restoration strategies for the Chesapeake Bay. This cultural model research formed part of a multi-year, multi-disciplinary Environmental Impact Assessment ( EIS), undertaken by federal- and state-level agencies. Our results suggest that Chesapeake Bay oyster stakeholders share a cultural model of oyster restoration that integrates ecological, economic, and cultural benefits. Restoration efforts that prioritize one of these benefits to a degree that threatens this holistic integration is inconsistent with the oyster restoration that stakeholders valued. These cultural model findings provide a reminder to policymakers and program implementers that future Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts to expand oyster sanctuaries and reserves, increase oyster aquaculture, and restrain wild oyster harvest need to be evaluated for how they support the integrated ecological, economic, and cultural benefits of oyster restoration.Maryland Sea Grant Topic(s):
'Related Research Project(s)' link to details about research projects funded by Maryland Sea Grant that led to this publication. These details may include other impacts and accomplishments resulting from the research.
'Maryland Sea Grant Topic(s)' links to related pages on the Maryland Sea Grant website.
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Featured Fellow
Leone Yisrael is a cephalopod-loving scuba diver, cook, and loves to try new activities. She conducts genetic analysis and fieldwork at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center through the Coastal Disease Ecology Lab.
Featured Research Project
Exploring the Use of Benthic Microbial Fuel Cells to Remove Sulfide While Harvesting Energy from Oyster Aquaculture Biodeposits
Oyster aquaculture is a rapidly growing industry in Maryland’s Chesapeake waters which stimulates economic activity and may provide a host of ecosystem benefits. A potential concern associated with the intensification of the oyster aquaculture is the local production and accumulation of oyster biodeposits, which can lead to a porewater sulfide accumulation and declining bioturbation, symptoms of declining ecosystem function. Sulfide is naturally removed from the seafloor by the interactions between bioturbating infauna and sulfide oxidizing bacteria.
Chesapeake Quarterly Magazine
A Growing Industry: Advancing Oyster Aquaculture in Maryland
