By HENRY FREDERICK
Headline Surfer
PALM COAST, FL – The Palm Coast community of Grand Haven is organizing a volunteer workday to assemble Vertical Oyster Gardens an initiative aimed at improving local water quality and supporting marine ecosystems. Additional volunteers are needed to ensure the success of this project.
The event will take place on Friday, February 21, 2025, from 9 AM - 12 PM at the VFW, 47 Old Kings Rd., Palm Coast. Volunteers of all ages are encouraged to participate in this hands-on effort to help restore local waterways. Participants will assist in assembling eco-friendly oyster gardens, which will serve as a habitat for oysters and other marine life.
“We are excited about this VOG build and the positive impact it will have on our waterways, but we are still short about a dozen volunteers to make it happen,” said Brian Unger, who, along with his wife Jacki, has volunteered to lead the assembly effort. “This is a great way for the community to come together and take an active role in improving our environment.”
Vertical Oyster Gardens are made from recycled oyster shells, strung together on rope or wire, and hung from docks or seawalls. These structures provide a habitat for juvenile oysters, which act as natural water filters capable of purifying up to 50 gallons of water per day. By creating these habitats, volunteers will contribute to the overall health of local water systems and enhance biodiversity.
The oyster shells used in this project are donated by the Coastal Conservation Association. Once assembled, the VOGs will be distributed to local dock owners who will install them to foster oyster population growth. In Ormond Beach, more than 600 VOGs have already been assembled and installed, demonstrating the impact of community-driven environmental restoration efforts.
Community members interested in participating in the event can come to the VFW on Friday, or find more information at OystersForMyNeighborhood.com.