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As part of the multi-partner We Recycle Shell initiative, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Coastal Resources Division (CRD) has opened two new public oyster shell recycling centers and refurbished an existing site in Savannah.
New recycling centers are now open at the North River Boat Ramp (map⤴) in Camden County and the South Newport River Boat Ramp (map⤴) in McIntosh County. In addition, the recycling station on East Montgomery Cross Road (map⤴) in Savannah has been upgraded through a partnership between DNR and the Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) Georgia.
The We Recycle Shell program is a statewide partnership dedicated to collecting used oyster shells from restaurants, community events, and the public to support oyster reef restoration projects along Georgia’s coast. Recycled shells provide the hard surface young oysters need to attach and grow, creating new reefs that improve water quality, stabilize shorelines, and provide critical habitat for fish and crabs.
“Every oyster shell that’s recycled helps grow a healthier coast,” said Cameron Brinton, a CRD marine biologist who coordinated the recycling centers. “These new centers make it easier than ever for residents to return their shells and play a role in restoring Georgia’s oyster reefs.”
The new drop-off locations are available to the public seven days a week for disposal of trash free, shell-only materials. The collected shells will be cured and later used in oyster reef restoration projects.
To learn more about shell recycling locations and how to participate and how these shells help Coastal Georgia, visit WeRecycleShell.com or CoastalGaDNR.org/HERU. To view photos of the new recycling stations, visit our photo gallery.
New and Refurbished Recycling Center Locations
North River Boat Ramp
I-95 Exit 3 East on GA HWY 40 towards St. Mary's (approximately 8.5 miles). Turn left on Meeting St. East and the ramp is at the end of the road.
South Newport River Boat Ramp
I-95 Exit 67 south on U.S. HWY 17 for 0.5 miles. Bear to the left on old U.S. HWY 17 (now ramp access road).
Montgomery Cross Rd. Savannah
Intersection of Thomas Ave and Montgomery Cross Rd.
About the Coastal Resources Division
The mission of the Coastal Resources Division is to balance coastal development and protection of the coast's natural assets, socio-cultural heritage and recreational resources for the benefit of present and future generations.
Media Contact
Tyler Jones
Public Information Officer
Coastal Resources Division
Georgia Department of Natural Resources
tyler.jones@dnr.ga.gov
912-230-9709
