ABSTRACT
Oyster reefs have suffered massive declines worldwide. New York City once had more than 900 km2 of oyster reefs, but now has essentially none left because of overharvesting. Because oyster filtration is the most effective way to remove sediments, organic matter, and bacteria from coastal waters, New York City’s Green Infrastructure Program is now encouraging oyster reef restoration to improve water quality and avoid the need for vastly more expensive water and sewage treatment plants.
