Oysters are a foundational species in estuarine ecosystems. Oyster reefs help create habitat, support biodiversity, stabilize shorelines, and improve overall ecosystem health. New York Harbor was once home to massive oyster reef systems, but overharvesting, pollution, and development caused those reefs to disappear over time. Billion Oyster Project is working to restore oysters at a scale large enough to help the harbor function as a living ecosystem again.
"Get on the Water" reflects Billion Oyster Project's belief that people protect what they feel connected to. The organization works to reconnect New Yorkers to New York Harbor through restoration, field science, public programming, and education because long-term ecological recovery depends on public engagement and stewardship.
Billion Oyster Project's flagship goal is to restore one billion oysters and engage one million students by 2030. The organization sees restoration and education as interconnected systems required to create long-term ecological recovery in New York Harbor.
"Get on the Water" reflects Billion Oyster Project's belief that people protect what they feel connected to. The organization works to reconnect New Yorkers to New York Harbor through restoration, field science, public programming, and education because long-term ecological recovery depends on public engagement and stewardship.
Oyster reefs provide critical ecological benefits. They create habitat for marine life, strengthen shorelines against erosion and wave energy, and support biodiversity throughout the estuary. Historically, oysters helped shape one of the most productive estuaries in the world, and restoring them is part of rebuilding the harbor's long-term ecological resilience.
One billion oysters represents a population-level target designed to help push New York Harbor toward self-sustaining reef systems. Small reefs alone are not enough. Restoration must happen at harbor-wide scale for oyster populations to reproduce, connect, and function together as living systems over time.
Billion Oyster Project has recycled more than 3.2 million pounds of oyster shell through partnerships with more than 75 oyster bars and seafood restaurants across New York City.
Restoration sites are selected using environmental monitoring, hydrodynamic modeling, biodiversity studies, and long-term scientific analysis. Billion Oyster Project works with scientific partners to understand where oysters are most likely to survive, reproduce, and contribute to harbor-wide reef connectivity.
To date, Billion Oyster Project has restored more than 183 million oysters across nearly 18 acres of reef throughout New York Harbor.
Billion Oyster Project combines large-scale oyster restoration with public education and cultural engagement. The organization believes ecological restoration only lasts when people feel connected to it, which is why restoration and education are scaled together across New York City.
Billion Oyster Project has engaged more than 66,000 students to date and aims to reach one million students by 2030 through educators, schools, public programming, and field experiences across New York City.
Billion Oyster Project connects students and educators across New York City to New York Harbor through hands-on, place-based science education. Students engage with fieldwork, data collection, oyster monitoring, waterfront expeditions, and real scientific inquiry connected directly to the harbor ecosystem.
Yes. Through partnerships with Harbor School and workforce development opportunities, students gain exposure to careers in marine science, restoration, aquaculture, climate resilience, and waterfront industries.
The organization provides professional learning workshops, curriculum resources, outdoor teaching training, Oyster Research Tank support, and CTLE-certified educator programs designed to help teachers bring harbor science into their classrooms.
Yes. Through partnerships with Harbor School and workforce development opportunities, students gain exposure to careers in marine science, restoration, aquaculture, climate resilience, and waterfront industries.
Your Billion Oyster Project volunteer day takes place entirely outdoors on Governors Island. All equipment and safety gear is provided. Please wear comfortable clothing you don’t mind getting dirty or a little wet, and closed-toed shoes are required — boots are even better. Depending on the weather, you may also want items like a rain jacket, hat, sunglasses, and sun protection. We provide sunscreen and bug spray on site. After booking, we’ll send a detailed preparation email with additional recommendations for your group.
Yes. Billion Oyster Project partners with corporations, restaurants, foundations, and community organizations across New York City to support restoration, education, shell recycling, and public engagement initiatives.
Volunteers support shell recycling, reef fabrication, oyster restoration, education programming, and community events throughout the year. Volunteer opportunities are available for individuals, schools, and corporate groups.
Yes. Billion Oyster Project offers on-water experiences that bring guests directly to active restoration sites throughout New York Harbor. Tours provide a behind-the-scenes look at oyster restoration, marine biodiversity, and the future of the harbor.
Our volunteer days are active, hands-on experiences that often involve standing for extended periods, working outdoors, and lifting materials (anywhere from 15-50 lbs). Because activities vary based on restoration needs, accessibility can differ from day to day. We do our best to support participation where possible, including offering golf cart transportation between the ferry and work site. We welcome volunteers of all abilities and encourage participants to engage at a level that feels comfortable for them. If you have specific accessibility needs or questions, we encourage you to reach out in advance so we can discuss what to expect.
A thriving reef cluster, building habitat for generations
