FREE OYSTER LECTURES

Program:

Curious about oysters on Whidbey Island? Join Emily Wilder of Salinity Seafood & More to explore oyster life cycles, ecological benefits, and sustainable farming by local small-scale growers. Learn how oysters filter water, support marine life, why the native Olympia oyster matters, and how to find fresh, safe-to-eat oysters.

Discover how to get involved with shellfish gardening with the new Whidbey Oyster Network—whether you have waterfront property, know neighbors with beach access, or just want to help. We’ll cover oyster shell recycling, safe storage and curing for restoration, and the planned 2027 islandwide project that will collect shells and track curing for use in wild oyster restoration projects by the Puget Sound Restoration Fund. In the meantime, shells are being saved for art and educational projects!

Emily will demonstrate shucking techniques using empty shells and provide informative handouts with oyster resources. No live oysters will be served.

Dates:

• Thursday, May 21st, 2026 from 4:00 – 5:00pm at Oak Harbor Library sponsored by Oak Harbor Library
• Sunday, June 7th, 2026 from 2:00 – 4:00pm at Bayview Cash Store upstairs sponsored by Slow Food Whidbey **register in advance**
• Tuesday, June 16th, 2026 from 12:00 – 1:00pm at Clinton Community Hall sponsored by the Clinton Library