Blue Ribbon Oyster Panel

The Blue-Ribbon Oyster Panel is committed to restoring and sustaining Virginia’s oyster resources, recognizing their critical role in both our environment and our economy. By working together and embracing new ideas, the panel aims to tackle the long-term challenges facing oyster populations, ensuring this iconic resource remains abundant for generations to come. In addition to setting clear and realistic goals, the panel is dedicated to finding practical, effective solutions to meet them. Through collaboration with local communities, scientists, and industry leaders, the panel strives to balance conservation with the needs of those who rely on oysters for their livelihoods.

Blue-Ribbon Oyster Panel Memorandum (PDF)

Members

Jackie Shannon, Chesapeake Bay Foundation
Joseph D. Grist, Chairman
A.J. Erskine, Associate Commissioner
Dr. Roger Mann, Virginia Institute of Marine Science
Tommy Kellum, W.E. Kellum Seafood
Rich Harding, Purcell’s Seafood
Ben Johnson, Johnson and Sons Seafood
Andy Lacatell, Saltwater Consulting RVA
Beverly Ludford, Pleasure House Oysters
Keith Lockwood, United States Army Corp of Engineers
Kevin Schabow, National Oceanic and Atmosphere Administration
Rachael Peabody, Executive Director, Virginia Marine Products Board
Col. Matthew Rogers, Virginia Marine Resources Commission
Jamie Brunkow, James River Association
Jennifer Sagan, Friends of the Rappahannock
Kim Huskey, Cherrystone Aquafarms