Oystermen Voice Concerns Over Private Leasing of Oyster Reefs

The state of Mississippi is allowing the lease of 80% of its previously public oyster reefs. Oystermen in South Mississippi are opposing this and have started a petition against the move. State officials say the leases are a strategy to speed up restoration efforts and reduce public costs. However, the oystermen say this threatens public access and the likelihood of their careers. The petition has a goal of 1,000 signatures (https://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/437/940/657/.)

Brad Stapleton and John Livings, both Mississippi oystermen, express frustration over the decision to transition to private leases, claiming that the industry was not adequately informed about the change.

Joe Spraggins, Executive Director of the Department of Marine Resources, attests that private leases serve the best interests of the oyster reefs. He explains that the shift will support restoration efforts and reduce the burden on public funds.

Oyster season in Mississippi officially opened yesterday, and many oystermen remain skeptical about the state’s plan to involve private leaseholders in managing the reefs. While the hope is that the leasing initiative will bring much-needed restoration, oystermen fear it could prioritize profit over the long-standing tradition of public access to these waters. For now, the skepticism continues as fishermen take to the reefs, uncertain of what the future holds for their livelihoods.