Getting Specific About Sustainability: Our Oyster CSA

A key tenant of Community-Supported Fisheries & Aquaculture (CSF/CSA) is sustainability. In developing our CSA program, we utilized the CSF standards outlined by Local Catch, a network of fishers, researchers, technical assistance providers, and community-based organizations across North America that are committed to strengthening local- and regional seafood systems through community-supported fisheries (CSFs). Below we outline how we’re shaping our Community Supported Aquaculture Program to fit the Local Catch definition and test new sustainability initiatives. 

Transportation 

Our CSA shares are delivered directly from Chatham, Massachusetts in a refrigerated truck. By scheduling deliveries on a single day to a set radius, we have a very small transportation footprint. We work exclusively with local oyster growers in Massachusetts and utilize GPS logistics software to accurately and efficiently plan our route from Chatham to Boston. 

Packaging

Most seafood that’s delivered requires extensive packaging to ensure it stays cold in transport. Often this means a lot of packaging consisting of cool packs, styrofoam, plastic linings, and a cardboard box. Since our CSA is delivered directly from Cape Cod in a refrigerated truck, we’re able to reduce our packaging to simple recyclable takeout boxes held together by biodegradable twine. You won’t find any pamphlets or print-outs included with your CSA box, instead, we’ve opted for digital oyster guides and resources. 

Our packaging is 95% biodegradable or recyclable

Restorative Aquaculture

Did you know that oyster farming is great for marine environments and is considered a form of restorative aquaculture? Oysters are filter feeders and don’t require extra feed. By filter-feeding, oysters help “clean up” coastal environments by filtering water and reducing nutrient pollution. Oyster farming also provides local fish with habitat and helps seed and support local oyster populations. By working with small oyster farmers across Massachusetts, we’re helping support the restorative aquaculture movement. 

Photo by Outerbeach Shellfish Farm

Traceability 

Each of the oysters in our CSA can be traced back to the farmer. Buying directly from farmers to package our CSA keeps our supply chain simple. Our monthly oyster guide reviews what makes each specific farm unique and discusses how the ecology of each farm location shapes each unique oyster. 

1st photo by Outerbeach Shellfish Farm, 2nd & 3rd photo by Signature Oyster Farm

Oyster Shells

After you’re finished eating your delicious local oysters, you’ll be left with quite a few shells. Oyster shells are incredible for composting or using in your garden, providing plants with calcium and nutrients for growth. Oyster shells can also be used to deter slugs and other garden pests. For information on how to locally compost or utilized your leftover oyster shells, see our guide.