MD Oyster Survival Rate Highest Since 1985

Maryland's Department of Natural Resources says oysters are surviving at the highest rate since 1985.

The department says results of its fall oyster survey show 92 percent of oysters were found alive in samples taken baywide. The two-month survey sampled 263 oyster bars throughout the bay.

While heavy rains last year caused high mortality in some areas, the department says lower salt levels throughout the bay helped cut diseases that have devastated oyster populations. DNR says the high survival rate also comes on the heels of a strong spatset, or crop of baby oysters, which was the largest last year since 1997.

Maryland is emphasizing oyster aquaculture and sanctuaries to restore its oyster population, which is at less than 1 percent of historic levels.