Going to Jazz Fest? From Tuesday, May 3, to Wednesday, May 4, the Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana (CRCL) invites attendees to volunteer in the little town of Violet where they'll bag oyster shells and set them in the coastal water, which will create oyster reefs throughout state waters. The project is all part of CRCL's Oyster Shell Recycling Program.
The event will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Those wishing to take part in this project must check in between 9:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. Lunch, snacks, beverages, and essential supplies like sunscreen will be provided at the site.
"Volunteers will get to see a different part of southeast Louisiana and actually help us solve our coastal land loss crisis," said James Karst, CRCL's Director of Communications and Marketing.
Since 2014, CRCL has collected oyster shells from local seafood restaurants. The shell recycling program is one of the largest of its kind in the country and has collected more than 10 million pounds of shell. Businesses and organizations such as Shell, Phillips 66, Chef's Brigade, and TC Energy Foundation support the program. Oyster reefs help to restore coastal and shoreline habitats, refine water quality, keep the economy stable, and provide a fishing spot for locals and tourists.
In less than a century, Louisiana lost more than 2,000 square miles of its wetlands. It accounts for 80% of wetlands lost throughout the country and is expected to lose 700 more square miles in 50 years if nothing is done. Without the wetlands, Louisiana's wildlife, communities, culture, and beauty wouldn't exist.
The team over at CRCL wants to ensure Louisiana remains a fisherman's paradise for years to come. Their mission is to unite people with a common goal: to conserve Louisiana for future generations through volunteer programs, restoration projects, and environmental awareness.
Click here to sign up for May 3 and here to sign up for May 4. Learn more about CRCL's work at crcl.org.
