Since 1998, Coastal Conservation Association of New Hampshire (CCANH) has advised and educated the public on the conservation of marine animal and plant life, and other coastal resources both onshore and offshore. The objective is to promote, protect and enhance the present and future availability of these coastal resources for the benefit and enjoyment of the general public. In 2009, members of the CCA NH Board became aware of the dramatic decrease in Great Bay oyster beds. After researching the issue with Dr. Ray Grizzle of UNH’s Jackson Estuarine Lab (JEL) and Ray Konisky of The Nature Conservancy (TNC), we decided to seek funding to institute a shell recycling program with area restaurants. Two purposes would be served: 1) acquire shell to re-establish the disappearing beds, and 2) increase public awareness of the problems facing the estuary, namely: siltation, storm water run-off, point and non-point pollution, the disappearance of eelgrass, disease and nitrogen loading. CCA is the "Home of the Piscataqua Oysterpalooza and the NH Oyster Shucking Championship" benefiting Great Bay Restoration.
