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Study Finds Oyster Reefs Keep Pace With Rising Sea Levels

E. Woodward/UNC Institute of Marine Sciences

Research by a team of coastal scientists at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Institute of Marine Science is gaining national recognition.  The study looked at the rate at which oyster reefs grow and if they’ll be able to keep pace with rising sea levels.  After 10 years of study in coastal North Carolina, the results show that oyster reefs grow much faster than previously expected and can also be an effective way of slowing erosion.  Public Radio East's Jared Brumbaugh spoke with Dr. Antonio Rodriguez, associate professor of marine science at the Institute of Marine Science about the research project and how the creation of an oyster reef could be more effective than a bulkhead for protecting the shoreline.

Credit E. Woodward, UNC Institute of Marine Sciences

Credit E. Woodward, UNC Institute of Marine Sciences
Oyster reef in Middle Marsh, NC
Credit UNC Institute of Marine Sciences
Middle Marsh Panorama - Justin Ridge and Dr. Antonio Rodriguez film in Middle Marsh, NC, in preparation for a workshop for NC teachers taking place June 16 - 18.

Jared Brumbaugh is the Assistant General Manager for Public Radio East. An Eastern North Carolina native, Jared began his professional public radio career at Public Radio East while he was a student at Craven Community College earning his degree in Electronics Engineering Technology. During his 15+ years at Public Radio East, he has served as an award-winning journalist, producer, and on-air host. When not at the station, Jared enjoys hiking, traveling, and honing his culinary skills.