New York's oyster industry is facing an estimated $2.4 million (£1.9 million) loss after a harsh winter caused severe damage to farms along Long Island, according to Governor Kathy Hochul's office.
Icy conditions destroyed boats and equipment, with Chris Quartuccio, founder of Blue Island Oyster Company, describing it as the “most intense winter we’ve ever had.” He warned that customers may see limited variety on menus.
Peter Stein, owner of Peeko Oysters, told The Suffolk Times that “every line we had out in the bay was either dislodged or damaged,” losing a major chunk of his inventory. He added that he is not ready to lay off staff despite the losses.
Governor Hochul has requested a “Secretarial Disaster Designation” for Suffolk County from the US Department of Agriculture, which would allow farmers to apply for low-interest emergency loans. The USDA said it is working to expedite resources to affected farmers.
The winter also impacted oyster production in other East Coast states, including Maryland, where Representative Andy Harris has asked for an “economic fishery disaster” declaration to assist oystermen.
