The N.C. Division of Marine Fisheries is requesting input on locations for 2021 oyster cultch planting.

Cultch planting involves strategically placing shells and rock to enhance shellfish habitat in potentially productive shellfish areas. Oysters, clams and other aquatic life are attracted to the cultch and begin to immediately colonize on the material.

The division’s shellfish rehabilitation program will hold two online meetings to share information on proposed planting locations for 2021 and to allow the public to ask questions and share their ideas.

The meetings dates, times and login information follow:

Wednesday, Dec. 16 at 6 p.m.: Internet link: ncdenrits.webex.com/ncdenrits/j.php?MTID=m8dee6b288f0f26fb144ff125d6b98278

Meeting Number/Access Code: 178 570 7534. Password: oystercultch. Join by Phone: 1-415-655-0003

Thursday, Dec. 17 at 6 p.m.:Internet link:

ncdenrits.webex.com/ncdenrits/j.php?MTID=ma6423f30f26e3ef4c003575223794abf

Meeting Number/Access Code: 178 109 2028. Password: oystercultch. Join by Phone: 1-415-655-0003

Members of the public may also submit written and verbal suggestions, which will be accepted through Dec. 23, 2020.

To request specific information about 2021 cultch planting plans, for more about the online meetings, or to submit written or verbal comment, contact Jason Peters, Reef Enhancement Program supervisor, at 252-808-8058 or Jason.peters@ncdenr.gov.

READ MORE IN OUR ON THE WATER SECTION HERE.