Rehabilitation of Pamlico Sound Oyster Producing Grounds Damaged or Destroyed by Hurricane Ginger,

摘要

The report describes the North Carolina Pamlico Sound oyster rehabilitation project for 1972. This project was directed toward the rehabilitation of natural oyster producing grounds damaged or destroyed by Hurricane Ginger in September 1971. The rain and wind of the hurricane were responsible for oyster mortalities ranging from 20to 70%. Average mortality for the marketable 3-inch and larger oysters was 33%. Young oysters were harmed less than mature oysters; 1to 2-1/2inch size oysters averaged 22% mortality for all Pamlico Sound areas. Damage to 1to 2-1/2inch oysters,which form the foundation for a rock,would have a detrimental effect on oyster production for several decades. Of more importance than the loss of marketable oysters was the loss of natural oyster producing areas and the 25% mortality to oyster populations ranging from 1inch to 2-1/2inch in size. The State of North Carolina renewed efforts to rehabilitate the Pamlico Sound oyster industry in 1970. Large scale experimental plantings of oyster shell and marl were conducted in 1970in six areas at a total cost of $43,766. Twenty-two percent of shell and marl plantings (Planted in 1971) were destroyed by Hurricane Ginger.