Events

Oysters Uncovered: The Kayak Edition Vol. 2

Oct.  5, 12, 19, & 26 2023, |North Carolina Coastal Federation’s Wanchese Office

Get ready for a fun afternoon on the water, followed by a delicious oyster tasting as part of this unique farm-to-fork experience.

Join us for one of our Oyster Month (October) kayak adventures on the beautiful shores of Broad Creek where you will tour the Coastal Federation’s demonstration oyster lease and living shoreline. As part of this excursion, you will explore the pristine coastal marsh and unique inhabitants on sit-a-top kayaks generously provided by Outer Banks Kayak Adventures!

The kayak tour will be guided by staff from Outer Banks Kayak Adventures and the Federation’s Coastal Specialist, Victoria Blakey. Victoria will help participants understand how oyster farms and living shorelines work and point out unique birds and marine life found along the shoreline.

After kayaking, you will retire to Blue Water Grill & Raw Bar for a sampling of a half dozen North Carolina oysters and Blue Water’s signature oyster shooter. Additional food and beverages are available for purchase but are not included in the $75 event ticket.

Tour and sampling is limited to 10 people per week. Transportation between the Federation’s Office and Blue Water is not included.

Please note: all tours will start at the Federation’s office in the Wanchese Marine Industrial Park at 1 p.m. Guests are encouraged to arrive 15 minutes early to check in, set up your kayak, and select your PFD (personal flotation device). A towel and a change of clothes are recommended. Sunscreen, a hat, and a refillable water bottle are also encouraged for all participants. A brief kayak demonstration and safety briefing will be given at the start of the tour.

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From Tide to Table: An Oyster Tasting Occasion

Oct.  27, 2023, |North Carolina Coastal Federation’s Wanchese Office and Coastal Studies Institute

Get ready for a fun afternoon on the water, followed by a delicious oyster tasting as part of this unique farm-to-fork experience.

Join us for an educational evening and tasting event celebrating North Carolina oysters! The evening will begin at the North Carolina Coastal Federation’s Office in Wanchese. Program participants will tour the Coastal Federation’s demonstration oyster farm while hearing about the statewide oyster blueprint and speaking with local oyster farmers.

After touring the Coastal Federation site, program participants will travel 4 miles to the Coastal Studies Institute (CSI) on the ECU Outer Banks Campus. There, guests will sample a variety of locally sourced wild and farm-raised oysters provided by Cousins Oysters. During the evening, CSI/ECU scientists will share their research on oyster farms and guests will interact with a panel of industry experts about the future of oysters and oyster farming in North Carolina.

Program cost is $135 per person before October 6th ($150 after), and includes raw and roasted oysters with creative toppings and accompaniments paired with a selection of beverages, including wine and beer. Advance registration is required and space is limited.

Reserve your seat and get your tickets, here.

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NC Oyster Month: Volunteer Event at Morris Landing

Oct.  9, 2023, |Morris Landing Clean Water Preserve

In celebration of NC Oyster Month volunteers are invited to Morris Landing Clean Water Preserve for a special volunteer event featuring Ghost Fleet Oyster Company. Volunteers will monitor the living shoreline, remove marine debris from the area, and bag oyster shells for future living shoreline projects. The native eastern oyster (Crassostrea virginica) is a cornerstone species within our estuaries. These remarkable creatures not only filter water and serve as sustenance for humans, but they also create reefs that provide refuge for various fish species. This ecological role has ripple effects, supporting employment and economic prospects for coastal communities.

Unfortunately, historical challenges such as overharvesting, pollution, and disease have led to an alarming 80% decline in oyster populations over the last century. No special skills or knowledge are required. You will receive the basic training needed.

Volunteers should bring a reusable water bottle, hat, and sunglasses. Please dress for the weather in clothes that are comfortable and that you don’t mind getting dirty. Close-toed shoes are required. Gloves, boots, trash pickers, and trash bags will all be provided. Children under the age of 18 must have a parent or legal guardian with them. All project supplies and equipment as well as snacks and refreshments will be provided. A portable toilet and parking are available on site.

This project was made possible through state-appropriated funding from NC’s General Assembly.

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North Carolina Oyster Summit – Resilient Coast for Future Roasts

May 9 & 10, 2023, | Marbles Kids Museum, Raleigh, NC

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