What is the purpose of CHOMP?
This project will gather water quality and oyster growth and mortality data collected by participating gardeners.  This information will assist ABC researchers in site selection for research projects conducted in support of oyster recovery programs.  The data will also be accessible online to gardeners for general information on grow out performance around the bay, and for predicting performance in various locations.

How can you get involved?
1. CLICK HERE to enroll in CHOMP.
2. Apply for a VMRC non-commercial aquaculture permit.
3. Get trained at an oyster gardener association meeting.

What do you need to participate?
VMRC Non-commercial Aquaculture Permit
Hydrometer to measure salinity
Thermometer
Metric ruler with millimeters (mm)
Logbook

What data will you collect?
Monthly (at mid-tide):

· Salinity (in ppt)
· Water temperature (°C)
· Air temperature (°C)
· General water and weather conditions
· Number of dead oysters removed (by strain and purchase date)

Semi-Annually (April and October):

Shell height (from hinge to furthest point on shell) in mm of 50 randomly selected oysters.  To get a random sample, deal all the oysters into piles of around fifty oysters each, then pick a pile and measure those oysters.

For additional information, please see the oyster gardening webpage on the VIMS website.

Funded by grants from the Virginia Environmental Endowment and the Chesapeake Bay Restoration Fund

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