Oysters and Ecosystems: How the Eastern Oyster Shapes the Chesapeake Bay

• For millennia, the oyster has been a linchpin in the Bay’s ecosystem. For centuries, the oyster has impacted the politics and economy of the State of Maryland.
• Learn about the impact of aquaculture on the wild fishery, supplying more oysters to market.
• Focus on the Chesapeake Oyster Alliance that is dedicated to helping recover the Bay’s oyster population by putting 10 billion oysters in the Bay by 2025.

Presenter: Jesse Iliff | Riverkeeper of South, West, and Rhode Rivers

Jesse Iliff is an attorney who obtained his juris doctor from the University of Maryland, Carey School of Law. A native of Arnold, Maryland, Jesse grew up playing in the Severn and Magothy rivers and cultivated a deep love for the Chesapeake and its tributaries. In 2015 Jesse became your South Riverkeeper, and in 2020 assumed responsibility for the West and Rhode Rivers as well. In this role Jesse is the watchdog for the rivers, enforcing environmental law and advocating for increased protection from pollution. In his spare time Jesse enjoys the outdoors with his wife Abbey and their children Baxter and Willow.

Lectures will be held virtually. Lectures are $10; FREE for AMM Members First Mate and above ($100).