Nor'Easter Oyster Company aligns closely with the Local Catch Network's core values. There are some ways our operations and initiatives reflect those principles:
Community-Based Fisheries: By sourcing surplus oysters from local sea farmers and processing them into value-added products, Nor'Easter Oyster Co supports independent, owner-operated aquaculture businesses. This approach strengthens the social and economic fabric of Maine’s coastal communities, and benefits the local seafood community.
Fair Access: Our model promotes equitable access to seafood markets for small-scale farmers by creating alternative revenue streams for oysters that might otherwise go unsold. Furthermore, by transforming these oysters into value-added products, many of which are shelf-stable, we can increase the geographic distribution for Maine oysters, and therefore, the volume of oysters farmers can grow and sell thereby allowing them to scale their operations.
Fair Pricing: By purchasing oysters that are not suitable for the half-shell market and transforming them into new products, we provide fair compensation to farmers for their entire harvest. This practice supports the economic viability of local aquaculture operations and contributes to a more sustainable seafood supply chain.
Eating with the Ecosystem: Our commitment to utilizing oysters that fall outside traditional market specifications encourages consumers to embrace a broader range of seafood products. Furthermore, it provides consumers who may not have access to fresh oysters with delicious refrigerated and shelf-stable seafood options.
Traceable and Simple Supply Chains: Operating as a local processor, we maintain a transparent and direct connection between producers and consumers. This traceability fosters trust and ensures that the origin and handling of seafood products are clear and accountable.
Catch and Handle with Honor: We are in the process of developing a recycling program for our discarded oyster shells. This project is intended to repurpose oyster shells to restore coastal habitats. This initiative minimizes waste and honors the role of oysters in the ecosystem, reflecting a deep commitment to environmental stewardship.
Community and Ecosystem-Based Fisheries Management: By collaborating with state agencies to implement shell recycling initiatives, we engage in ecosystem-based management practices. We intend for our efforts both in our sourcing, processing, and shellfish recycling to contribute to the resilience of coastal ecosystems and the communities that depend on them.
Honoring the Ocean: Our operations demonstrate a profound respect for marine environments by integrating sustainable practices that protect and restore ocean habitats. This dedication ensures that the ocean’s health is preserved for future generations.
Creativity and Collaboration: Thus far, we have partnered with over 20 oyster farms to purchase excess oysters that would otherwise go unused. This allows farms to diversify their revenue streams, and provides a creative sales outlet for excess oysters that was previously nonexistent.
Equitable Seafood Systems: By supporting small-scale farmers and ensuring that seafood products are accessible and fairly priced, we contribute to a more equitable seafood system. Our business model addresses disparities and promotes inclusivity within the seafood industry.
