Billion Oyster: Basic Oyster Research Station Training

At our entry-level training, you will learn how to track oyster growth and identify organisms living among the oysters. The program is designed for schools, organizations, and individual community scientists who want to be “hands-on” in monitoring and restoring the New York Harbor Estuary.

During this training on Governors Island, you will learn to handle an Oyster Research Station (ORS) and work with a Community Reef. At the end of the training, you will be ready to either receive your own ORS, join an ORS at an already established site, or join the efforts at a Community Reef.

BOP provides a starter kit for the Oyster Measurement protocol, including basic equipment, supplies, live oysters, and a permitted waterfront site where you can safely conduct field science expeditions with your students or fellow team members.

The supplies given out at the training are valued at $200, but thanks to funding from the New York City Council, Council members, Pace University, the National Science Foundation and many other generous partners we are able to offer the training at a flat rate of $100. This price covers training, associated supplies and oysters.

The Billion Oyster Project acknowledges that some might not be able to cover the costs of the trainings. We offer sliding scale pricing for schools, organizations or community scientists that have documented financial hardships. Please send your inquiry to educate@nyharbor.org.

Paying by check instead? Please email educate@nyharbor.org to confirm your reservation and receive the code to register

Is the event full? You can be added to the waitlist!

Email us with any questions at educate@nyharbor.org. We will be in touch one week prior to the training with additional details!

Thanks to the Billion Oyster Project partners and funders: New York City Council Speaker Corey Johnson and Council Members Margaret S. Chin, Paul Vallone, Costa Constantinides, Daniel Dromm and Joseph C. Borelli and Simons Foundation, Pace University, the National Science Foundation, and the New York City Department of Education.