Group To Buy 1K Oysters To Support LI Farmers During Coronavirus

GREAT SOUTH BAY, NY — An organization that works to help the oyster industry on Long Island, has found a new way to support the local community during the coronavirus pandemic. The Gino Macchio Foundation announced last week that it will purchase 1,000 oysters, at the rate of .50 cents per oyster, from each Islip Farm to help cover daily expenses during these difficult times.

"While there are a handful of full-time farmers out in the Bay, many rely on a secondary source of income to keep a float," Ken Daly, Executive Director Gino Macchio Foundation, said. "This advance payment to the farmers will give them the financial assistance they need now to ensure a healthy harvest in a few months time."

The goal is to assist local oyster farmers who may not have the resources to currently tend to their farms. When oysters are ready for harvest, the foundation will then receive the oysters that cannot me sold due to being too big, doubles, too "ugly", etc., in order to replenish the natural oyster reefs in the Great South Bay with the pre-purchased crop. Operating oyster farmers can apply through May 15 by calling 631-627-0465.

"By relocating those oysters that cannot be sold at market to the natural reef, we’re doing our part to improve the water quality of the Great South Bay," Daly said.

For more information Visit: GinoMacchioFoundation.com.