WORCESTER COUNTY, Md.—Worcester County is celebrating Maryland's shellfish industry by the launch of "Maryland's Coast Shellfish" brand. The new initiative highlights locally grown oysters, clams and bay scallops, as well as the people in the places who grow them.
The brand celebrates the rich heritage, quality, and sustainable practices behind shellfish harvesting in Maryland, according to Melanie Pursel, Worcester County Tourism and Economic Development Director.
Aidan Cook, oyster farmhand, says the industry supports jobs and the environment.
" I feel like it's a it's a big economic boost and it provides a lot of jobs. And as well as cleaning our water out here, because the oysters, they filter a bunch a bunch of water, "he said.
Dan Worrell, owner of Big Pines Oyster Company, says the demand for Maryland shellfish is not just within the state but nationwide.
"Not only are people asking for coastal Maryland oysters in Maryland, they are asking for them around the entire country, because every time that that demand increases, it helps support another job or community down here," he said.
Maryland's Coast Shellfish" is meant to make local shellfish more recognizable by encouraging people to buy local product.
The brand also wants to highlight Maryland's coastal bay region.
"They can point to the where did this come from? Not just Maryland, not just the bay or the bays. It came from the Maryland Coastal Bays region," Kevin Atticks, Maryland Department of Agriculture Secretary.
The new brand is a part of a long-term effort to promote Worcester County's shellfish growers, according to Pursel.
