OUR VISION
A future in which New York Harbor is the center of a rich, diverse, and abundant estuary. The communities that surround this complex ecosystem have helped construct it, and in return benefit from it, with endless opportunities for work, education, and recreation. The harbor is a world-class public space, well used and well cared for—our Commons.
Our Impact
It took less than 100 years for New Yorkers to wipe out the oyster population in NY Harbor. Now, the Billion Oyster Project is rebuilding this important natural resource and habitat. Here’s what we’ve accomplished, since 2014, with the help of students, volunteers, and partners.
47 Million
Live Oysters Restored
1.6 Million
Pounds Of Shells Collected
8,000+
NYC Students Engaged
MEET THE REEFS
Billion Oyster Project is restoring oyster reefs to New York Harbor in collaboration with New York City communities. Oyster reefs provide habitat for hundreds of species, and can protect our city from storm damage — softening the blow of large waves, reducing flooding, and preventing erosion along the shorelines. We also run four oyster nurseries where we grow oysters for future reef installations and conduct scientific experiments.
EDUCATION INITIATIVES
K–12 STEM Curriculum
We are proud to work with more than 100 schools across New York City. Our hands-on introduction to STEM education invites students to engage with New York Harbor and trains them as scientists — working to solve a local environmental challenge.
The Urban Assembly New York Harbor School
The Harbor School is a public high school on Governors Island focused on preparation for maritime careers. Students enroll in one of seven Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs of study, leading to industry certification.
In the News
“We are making progress toward restoring a lost habitat, and motivating a generation of New Yorkers to care about, and for, the ecosystem around them.”
— Pete Malinowski, Executive Director & Co-Founder
Become a Member
Help us raise funds for our education and restoration initiatives by becoming a Billion Oyster Project member today. Learn more about member benefits!
Volunteer with Us
Join our community of more than 10,000 volunteers who share our determination to restore New York Harbor.
Make a Donation
Donate today to support our mission to restore oyster reefs to New York Harbor through public education initiatives.