Letters

I had the privilege of volunteering at Conscience Point Shellfish for over three years. This experience was instrumental in shaping my marine science career — and it’s deeply disheartening to think that future students might not have the same opportunity. CPS has made invaluable contributions to our community and ecosystem, and it’s frustrating that false claims have been made against their integrity.

I first learned about CPS from my neighbor, a Community Supported Agriculture member and oyster enthusiast. As a high school student eager to gain experience in marine science, volunteering with CPS was the perfect fit.

Every Saturday morning, alongside my mother and sister, I immersed myself in shellfish restoration work. From sorting and re-bagging oysters, to observing the thriving ecosystem they foster, I witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of oyster farming on estuarine habitats. The sight of juvenile sea bass sheltering beneath floating cages, sponges growing on bags, and blue crabs nestled among the oysters left a lasting impression.

The dedicated team at CPS, including their inspiring board members and volunteers, deepened my understanding of the critical role that oysters play in restoring marine ecosystems. The hands-on experience not only strengthened my passion for marine science but also opened doors to incredible opportunities.

Additionally, hands-on experience for high school students is rare to come by, which makes CPS all the more important to the community. Conversations with marine scientists like Barley, who later invited me to volunteer at his hatchery, and my time spent at CPS helped me develop skills that I later brought to my high school biology and environmental science classes. These efforts earned me the New Scientist and Principal awards, which supported my path to studying marine science at the University of Galway.

The skills I gained at CPS also led to my role as a summer volunteer research assistant at the Peterson Lab at Stony Brook University.

CPS served as a foundation for all these achievements, fostering a sense of purpose and community among young people passionate about the environment.

CPS is a vital resource for education, conservation and community engagement. My story is just one of many that highlight their profound impact. I hope it underscores the importance of preserving CPS for future generations.

Avery Meier

North Sea