Moriches Bay Project Launches Million Mollusk March

Moriches Bay Project, a nonprofit that aims to restore the ecological health of Moriches Bay, wants to build four new oyster beds next year, and to do so the group has turned to the crowdfunding website Indiegogo.

In a campaign titled the Million Mollusk March, they are seeking at least $20,000 to fund the new oyster beds, which will be in addition to the two beds Moriches Bay Project constructed this year.

“We are so excited about the possibilities this venture can have for the future of the Moriches Bay Project…” organizers state. “We know our goal is high, but in order to fulfill our plans for next year we have to aim high and we need all the help we can get!”

Ultimately, Moriches Bay Projects aims to seed 1 million oyster in the bay by the end of 2015. Oysters are known as the workhorses of mollucks, as they are extremely effective at filtering harmful algae from water.

Funds raised will go toward purchasing compatible oyster stock from a breeding lab, scouting locations with resource managers, labor, equipment, transportation, monitoring and assessment.

So far, $505 has been pledged. The campaign has 58 days to go. Donations are tax deductable.

Everyone who donates will receive a bumper sticker. For $500, donors get a hat and T-shirt.

Visit indiegogo.com for more information and to make a pledge.