When you picture Somerset County’s waterfront, you probably see sunsets, crab pots, and the tide brushing the marsh. Yet these same waters can become an economic engine for the community. Even better, as a waterfront homeowner, you can play a role in this future.

The Oyster Advantage

Recently, HappyEcoNews highlighted oyster farming as both a sustainable protein and a natural environmental solution. Oysters filter water, trap carbon, and build reef systems that protect shorelines. Furthermore, every pound of oyster protein carries only a fraction of the carbon footprint of beef or chicken. Even while they grow, oysters literally clean the waters around them.

In Maryland, the story goes further. The state not only supports oyster restoration but also runs a credit program. Through this program, farmers earn income from the nutrients that oysters remove from the Bay. In other words, oysters are recognized as both food and environmental workers with financial value.

Why Somerset County Is Poised to Benefit

Somerset’s location along Tangier Sound and its rivers makes it ideal for oyster aquaculture. Additionally, the county already has leaseholders, processing facilities, and restoration sanctuaries. With these foundations in place, Somerset is well positioned to expand.

Picture this:

• Local farms raising oysters that create jobs and credits.

• A “Somerset Sound Oysters” brand boosting pride and demand.

• Cleaner, clearer waters increasing property values and protecting shorelines.

• Tourism, festivals, and school programs built around this resource.

This vision is not far off. In fact, it is a 5- to 10-year roadmap if we build steadily on the progress already made.

How Waterfront Homeowners Can Get Involved

If you own waterfront property in Somerset, you are not a bystander. Instead, you can be a front-line steward.

• First, install oyster floats or cages at your pier through programs like Marylanders Grow Oysters (Maryland DNR).

• Next, recycle oyster shells to support reef restoration (Oyster Recovery Partnership).

• In addition, partner with growers or co-ops to help generate aquaculture credits.

• Finally, monitor water quality and add science to your shoreline.

What do you gain? Cleaner water, less erosion, possible tax credits, and higher property values. On top of that, you gain the pride of knowing your slice of shoreline contributes to something much larger.

Call to Action: Be Part of Somerset’s Oyster Future

As a Somerset resident, you have the rare chance to align heritage, environment, and economy. Oysters can connect your past with your future — but only if you take action.

👉 If you are a waterfront property owner, start the conversation. Ask about oyster floats, shell recycling, or aquaculture cooperatives. Together, we can build a Somerset where clean water and strong communities thrive side by side.

The tide is rising. The real question is: will you ride it?