Maryland’s Coastal Shellfish Debuts It’s Own Brand

SNOW HILL, Md. – Maryland is well know for all types of seafood, but shellfish harvested from the coastal bays have their own special briny flavor, and now, a brand to show for it.

Fishers and local officials gathered at Baywater Landing Marina to celebrate the launch of Maryland’s Coast Shellfish on Thursday Aug. 20th.

The initiative celebrates the hard work of local shellfish workers  and their contributions to the states economy. Dan Worrell is the Owner and Founder of Fallen Pine Oyster Company, and explained what makes Maryland’s Coastal Oysters so special.

“It makes you think of the beach.” Said Worrell. “It makes you think of vacation. It makes you think of family and friends. So when you taste the oysters from Maryland’s coast, it’s it’s not just a culinary experience, but it’s a it’s a family and cultural one as well.”

The brand aims to bring support and acknowledgement to the large local industry. Kevin Atticks is the Maryland Secretary of Agriculture, and explained the initiative.

“One of the reasons we’re doing this initiative is because our oyster growers and other watermen, they need support from the state.” Said Atticks. “It’s been an incredibly difficult year. We’ve had freeze, we’ve had disease, we’ve had labor issues. And yet folks who are dedicated to the water, just like our farmers, they’re committed.”

Not only are the oysters, clams, and scallops known for their delicious flavor, they also serve a crucial role in the natural filtration of the bays.

“What I love most about our coastal bays and the oysters and the scallops and other seafood that’s growing here, is that by cultivating that and dedicating your career to cultivating that.” Said Atticks. “You’ve also become an ecologist and an environmentalist because those oysters are purifying the water.”

For more information, contact bdix@worcestermd.gov