R.I. oyster producers grow revenue to $5.4M

SOUTH KINGSTOWN – The harsh winter of 2014-15 was tough on Rhode Island’s oyster farms, but despite some losses, the industry continued to grow.

The R.I. Coastal Resources Management Council’s recently released annual report on the aquaculture industry showed a 7 percent increase in producer revenue, from approximately $5 million in 2014 to $5.4 million, according to a report by The Westerly Sun.

In Rhode Island, oysters dominate the farmed shellfish market, with 8,272,172 sold last year, when the number of oyster farms increased from 55 to 61.

Of the coastal salt ponds where oysters are grown, Point Judith Pond is the most intensively farmed, with 56.7 acres used for oyster farming. Ninigret Pond is next with 42.1 acres, followed by Winnapaug, with 8 acres. •

- Advertisement -

No posts to display