💨 Abstract

Florida wildlife officials have preliminarily approved plans to reopen Apalachicola Bay for oyster harvesting after a five-year closure due to dwindling populations. This reopening aims to revive the oyster industry, which was severely impacted by environmental factors, drought, and overharvesting. State regulators will finalize the terms in November, with harvesting set to resume in January 2026. The reopening is crucial for the local economy and cultural heritage of Apalachicola.

Courtesy: WTOP Staff