Vertical Oyster Gardens Workshop – Hands On Initiative
Vertical Oyster Garden Hands-On Workshop
Come out again! Due to the strong response to our first Vertical Oyster Garden workshop, we are hosting a second session for those who missed it or want to add more oyster strings to their docks. Learn how to build a Vertical Oyster Garden and how oysters improve water clarity, support marine habitat, and strengthen the health of our estuary across the Bocilla Islands Chain.
This workshop is also part of a citizen science effort in partnership with the Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center. Participants help track oyster growth and water conditions through simple photo sharing and surveys, providing valuable insight into our local waters. Join us to learn something new and be part of a community effort to support cleaner water and healthier habitat right from your dock.
May 21, 2026
10:30 AM to 12:30 PM
290 Kettle Harbor Drive, Placida, Florida
We’re excited to partner with the Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center at Alligator Creek Preserve and welcome Ashley Cook, Director of Conservation, who will share insights on oysters in Charlotte Harbor and how restoration efforts are making a difference.
Participants will build Vertical Oyster Garden (VOG) strings using oyster shells recycled from local restaurants. Strings can be installed on your own dock or donated for placement at other locations around the island.
Our goal is to install 300 oyster garden strings at 100 locations. All installations will be monitored over time, with follow-up beyond the workshop.
Oysters are natural water filters, capable of filtering up to 50 gallons of water per day. As dredging, pollution, and coastal development have reduced natural reef structure, Vertical Oyster Gardens help replace this lost habitat, supporting oyster growth, reef formation, and healthier water.
Come build an oyster garden, learn from a local expert, and be part of a hands-on effort to improve water quality in Charlotte Harbor and around our island.