Research Farm
We operate a 1-acre research farm located in the York River right off the shores of VIMS' Gloucester Point campus. The purpose of the farm is for demonstration of different methods of oyster aquaculture, applied research, and workforce development. We strive to make the research farm a collaborative environment where internal and external stakeholders are welcome anytime. Contact Farm Manager, Madeline Pitsenbarger if you are interested in collaborating on a project or touring the research farm.
Gear Types
Semi-Automatic Flipping BasketNew technology from New Zealand that has generated a great deal of interest by those doing off-bottom aquaculture. Our farm includes 1000 baskets used primarily for demonstration and applied research. |
Floating CagesThis type of gear is relatively common in off-bottom oyster aquaculture. Our farm includes twelve 6-bag cages used primarily for collaborative research. |
Bottom CagesThis type of gear is very common in oyster aquaculture, especially in Virginia. Our farm has the capacity for up to 24 bottom cages used primarily for storage and demonstration. |
Farm Equipment
Aluminum Oyster BargeOur primary vessel is a 24' x 8' aluminum barge equipped with a davit and wash down pump. |
Aluminum Grader/TumblerCommonly used in the industry, this equipment helps sort shellfish for size grades, chip new growth to promote standardized shapes, and clean the oysters. We often include the tumbler in our applied research projects as we strive to simulate real world actions to produce results that reflect industry protocol. |
Collaborative Projects
Grow-out Comparison of Oyster Seed Cultured in Two Different Hatchery SystemsA collaborative project where we are raising oyster seed spawned through either static culture methods or recirculating aquaculture to evaluate if there are any latent effects on oyster performance (growth, survival, etc). |