VIMS

Box 23: Elizabeth and Lafayette Rivers

Location: Elizabeth and Lafayette Rivers
History of location: Small tributaries of southern Hampton Roads. History of regular spat settlement of modest intensity and significant seed and market oyster production prior to MSX. This region has been condemned for market oyster production for many years.
Current status: Low population levels on Baylor and private grounds subject to consistent disease (MSX and Dermo) mortality. Cultch condition on Baylor Grounds is poor. Some occasional data collection. Data held by VMRC.
Recent restoration activity (reefs and other) to date: Eleven reefs built from 1998 through 2009. Occasional shell planting. 
Restoration potential: Limited because of consistent disease risk, habitat degredation, and user conflicts. Potential source of fossil reef shells.
Elizabeth and Lafayette Rivers