THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Discover the importance of oyster conservation through hands-on training in NYC. Join the Billion Oyster Project’s engaging program and learn how oysters help clean and sustain urban waters.
Discover the importance of oyster conservation through hands-on training in NYC. Join the Billion Oyster Project’s engaging program and learn how oysters help clean and sustain urban waters.
Book with Billion Oyster Project
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Operated by Billion Oyster Project · New York City, NY
Located in New York City, the Billion Oyster Project offers a unique opportunity for educators and outdoor enthusiasts alike to immerse themselves in oyster research and conservation. The Oyster Research Tank (ORT) Training provides a hands-on, 6.5-hour experience where participants learn to set up and maintain oyster tanks—an engaging way to connect with urban marine ecosystems. This program isn’t just about cages and water; it’s a gateway into understanding the vital role oysters play in local water quality and habitat health. As part of NYC’s ongoing effort to restore its oyster population, the training combines scientific inquiry with practical skills. Participants explore how oysters filter and clean water, witness live specimens up close, and gain insights into environmental stewardship. The program itself is a mix of classroom instruction and real-world application—perfect for teachers, students, or curious locals eager to see their city’s waters in a new light. The setting positions participants in the heart of New York, with the East River and harbor as natural backdrops that highlight the urban-ocean interface. The program emphasizes community involvement and sustainability, making it a standout choice for those interested in urban ecology and conservation. Whether you’re looking to enhance environmental education or pursue personal interests, the ORT training makes science tangible and impactful. With a focus on inquiry-based learning and hands-on activities, it fosters a deeper understanding of marine ecosystems and the importance of oyster reefs in maintaining water clarity and supporting biodiversity. Designed to inspire action and awareness, this program contributes to New York City’s broader environmental goals while providing a meaningful, memorable experience.
easy.
6.5 hours.
Moderate physical activity, suitable for most participants with a basic level of mobility.
No prior experience is necessary; the training is designed for all levels, from beginners to educators.
While primarily aimed at educators and adults, certain activities can be adapted for older children under supervision.
Dress comfortably in clothes suitable for water activities, and bring waterproof gear if possible.
Yes, the program emphasizes sustainable practice and environmental stewardship.
Yes, the program encourages continued involvement in oyster restoration initiatives.
Yes, registration is recommended to secure your spot and ensure a smooth experience.
The Billion Oyster Project was launched in 2014 as part of city-wide efforts to restore oyster populations and improve water quality.
The project promotes sustainable aquaculture practices, focusing on habitat restoration and public education to foster long-term environmental stewardship.
Billion Oyster Project is a conservation and education initiative focused on restoring oysters in New York Harbor while engaging educators, students, and community volunteers. The Project offers a range of hands-on programs and trainings that combine fieldwork, classroom curriculum, and citizen science. Educator-focused offerings include Oyster Research Tank (ORT) Training—a 6.5-hour session that trains teachers to set up and monitor classroom oyster tanks—and Oyster Research Station (ORS) Training to equip teachers with skills to monitor oyster growth and biodiversity. Short workshops such as Oysters 101 and ORS Refresher provide two- to 2.5-hour refreshers and CTLE-credit opportunities, and some trainings include ferry travel to Governors Island. Public programs invite volunteers to participate in ORS Monitoring, shell cleaning on Governors Island, and community water quality testing events. Volunteer roles range from collecting data on oyster health at Oyster Research Stations to spending five hours preparing shells for restoration. The Project also supports public-facing events such as the Community Water Quality Testing end-of-season celebration, featuring data review, snacks, and a paper-making workshop. Many programs emphasize inquiry-based, place-based education that connects classroom lessons to real-world marine conservation and stewardship. Training sessions promote collaboration among educators, provide hands-on activities for students, and contribute to oyster research and restoration efforts across New York Harbor. Classroom and community participants gain practical experience with oyster life cycles, habitat, monitoring techniques, and water quality testing.
Book with Billion Oyster Project