Oyster Cages – Monitoring & Maintenance

At multiple marinas along the River Hamble, Blue Marine Foundation has cages full of native oysters. These cages, suspended beneath marina pontoons, require regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure the oysters are in good condition and the cages are kept clear of biofoul.

We need volunteers to help with the monitoring work by pulling the cages out of the water onto the pontoon; returning any fish, crabs, shrimps, etc. to the water; removing the oysters from the cages to check on their health; and recording the number of mortalities. The maintenance work involves scrubbing and washing down the cage structure to remove biofouling organisms, which ensures water flow is not reduced through the cage, and checking all shackles and chains are in good condition, as well as replacing any worn out equipment.

All personal protective clothing (lifejackets, gloves) is provided by Blue Marine Foundation, but please wear clothing that can get wet/muddy (waterproofs are ideal) and wellies/walking boots with good grip.

Please bring water bottles and snacks. Food is also available at the marina.

If you’d like to help, please book a place here