Oyster Shell Recycling Program

Recycle for Reefs

The Coastal Federation is working to restore wild oyster populations by recycling oyster shells and putting those shells back into the water. It’s a critical step in ensuring that North Carolina’s coastal ecology and economy continue to thrive. Shell recycling partners are a crucial part of the Federation’s recycling efforts, and there are several resources available to help support shell recycling.

Oyster Shell Drop-Off Sites


Shell recycling drop-off sites are located at the Coastal Federation’s three regional offices and in the following counties: Brunswick, Carteret, Craven, Dare, New Hanover, Onslow, Orange, Pamlico, and Pender. Explore the map below, or call us at (252)-393-8185 to find a shell recycling site near you.

Please contact a regional shell recycling coordinator for more information: Georgia Busch (Southeast), Nicholas Green (Central), Victoria Blakey (Northeast)

Oysters being enjoyed by people, then get recycled and placed back into the water, where they then provide a habitat for new oysters to grow.

Our Partners

living shoreline © Daniel Pullen

The Restoration Continues

You can support even more oyster restoration by Adopting an Oyster.