Water Activities & Conservation with Billion Oyster Project
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6.5 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate physical activity, suitable for most participants with a basic level of mobility.
Overview
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.
Oyster Research Tank (ORT) Training
Teachers only • In-Person
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About This Adventure
Join the Oyster Research Tank program for an engaging 6.5-hour training where educators learn to set up and monitor oyster tanks in their classrooms. Experience hands-on activities, explore inquiry-based learning methods, and connect with fellow teachers, all while contributing to vital oyster research and conservation efforts.
Duration
6.5 Hours (9:00am - 3:30pm)
Upcoming Trainings
August 6, 2025 November 4, 2025 January 26, 2026 February 26, 2026
About
The Oyster Research Tank (ORT) program is one of BOP’s most popular educational initiatives and serves as an indoor complement to the Oyster Research Station (ORS) program. Participants in the ORT program set up an oyster tank in their classroom, and monitor their tank for water chemistry parameters such as ammonia levels and dissolved oxygen for their effects on oyster mortality and growth. An ORT can also serve as a frame for inquiry-based learning and authentic research via a number of different scientific methods, including: observational study (e.g. of animal behavior), experimental study (e.g. by varying tank parameters in comparison with control tank conditions), and engineering design (e.g. to optimize a tank’s biological filter).
In this session, teachers can expect to...
- Learn through hands-on activities how to set up and monitor an oyster tank with students in your classroom
- Explore BOPs accompanying ORT unit, and consider how it can be used in your classroom
- Connect with other Billion Oyster Project teachers
Important Note
The ORT Training consists of 2 sessions, the training itself and a separate time to pick up oysters for your tank. Oyster pickups are held throughout the school year, about every other month, and will be communicated after completion of the in-person training session.
CTLE Credit
CTLE credits are provided through Billion Oyster Project.
Fees & Registration
Billion Oyster Project's Oyster Research Tank training costs $200. This flat fee--which covers training, tank, associated supplies and oysters--is made possible thanks to funding from the New York City Council members and other generous partners. This support also allows us to offer this training FREE to all Title 1 schools. Please inquire about a discount code if you are a teacher at a Title 1 school.
Please send your inquiry to measton@billionoysterproject.org, ecaref@billionoysterproject.org, and kschreiber@billionoysterproject.org
Thanks to the Billion Oyster Project partners and funders: New York City Council Speaker Adrienne E. Adams and Council Members Christopher Marte, Julie Menin, Gale Brewer, Yusef Salaam, Carmen De La Rosa, Kristy Marmorato, Amanda Farías, Vickie Paladino, James Gennaro, Shekar Krishnan, Julie Won, Joann Ariola, Lincoln Restler, Crystal Hudson, Sandy Nurse, Alexa Avilés, Rita Joseph, Mercedes Narcisse, Justin Brannan, Kamillah Hanks, Joseph C. Borelli and Pace University, the National Science Foundation, and the New York City Department of Education.
Adventure Tips
Wear Waterproof Clothing
Since you'll be handling water and live specimens, waterproof gear keeps you dry and comfortable.
Bring Sun Protection
If the training takes place outdoors or in sunny spaces, sunblock, hat, and sunglasses are recommended.
Prepare to Get Hands-On
Be ready to participate actively—gloves and close-toed shoes are helpful for working with tanks.
Ask Questions During the Session
Engage with instructors and fellow participants to deepen your understanding of oyster ecology.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Oyster drills
- Common urban waterfowl such as ducks and gulls
History
The Billion Oyster Project was launched in 2014 as part of city-wide efforts to restore oyster populations and improve water quality.
Conservation
The project promotes sustainable aquaculture practices, focusing on habitat restoration and public education to foster long-term environmental stewardship.
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Adventure Hotspots in New York City
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof Gloves
Protect your hands while handling oysters and equipment to stay dry and hygienic.
Closed-Toe Shoes
Necessary for safety and hygiene during tank work and outdoor activities.
Sun Protection (Hat, Sunscreen)
Protect yourself from sun exposure during outdoor components.
summer specific
Notebook and Pen
Take notes on key insights or observations during the training.