Our oyster farm, Water is Life Oysters, is located just offshore of Apalachicola, Florida, “The Oyster Capitol of the World.” Apalachicola Bay once provided 90% of all of Florida’s and 10% of the nation’s consumed oysters. But today this Bay, like nearly all of the world's once flourishing oyster habitats, is suffering from a devastating decline in wild oyster beds. Environmental degradation and human mismanagement has led to the decimation of this keystone species vital to the health and well-being of bodies of water and so many living creatures, including humans. The bay is currently closed to wild harvesting, and local oysters are hard to find. We are growing oysters to give the natural reefs a chance to revive, and to help maintain a way of life that loves and respects the waters of this area and all that she provides.
We grow oysters in the water column in floating bags, protecting them from predators while allowing them to feast on the highly nutritious and clean waters of Apalachicola Bay. This means that the community can once again enjoy delicious, protein and zinc packed oysters while simultaneously protecting the bay and letting the reefs recover. Oysters filter water, provide necessary habitat for hundreds of aquatic species, and protect against storms and climate chaos. We are part of traditions that seek to produce food in right relationship with the land and water ways.
Across the Gulf, our sister farm Cooperativa KPAP is preparing for a delicious near future! Cooperativa KPAP, is an integrated family farm located in El Faisán, a small village inside the Reserva de la Biosfera Pantanos de Centla of Tabasco, Mexico, growing fish, vegetables, and livestock. The Reserva is stunningly beautiful...and for a number of months every year, nearly unbearably hot. With experience, creativity and determination, KPAP is figuring out how to grow food in increasingly warm weather using all available resources.