MOREHEAD CITY, N.C. -- North Carolina officials have received applications from about 60 fishermen who want to plant oyster shells to enhance shellfish habitat.
The Daily News of Jacksonville reported Thursday the planting of 41,000 bushels of oyster shells will begin in April in Onslow, Carteret, Hyde and New Hanover counties. The fishermen will be paid about $2 a bushel through a federal economic recovery grant.
During what's known as cultch planting, shells and rock are placed on the bottom of the water to enhance shellfish habitat, especially important during spawning.
The Division of Marine Fisheries is partnering with the North Carolina Coastal Federation on the project. It's one part of a federal economic recovery grant to create jobs and assist the state in oyster rehabilitation.
Information from: The Daily News
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