ReClam The Bay Looking for Volunteers in LBI Area

Rutgers Cooperative Extension (RCE), along with the volunteers in ReClam the Bay are inviting the public to their annual Open House for the ReClam The Bay and the Barnegat Bay Shellfish Restoration Program.

The 8 year old program is run by RCE of Ocean County and NJDEP Bureau of Shellfisheries with support from Ocean County. The program uses shellfish restoration to teach people how to be good environmental stewards wherever they live.

The Open House, organizers say, will take place on Tuesday, April 29 at 7 p.m.

Each year ReClam The Bay raises over 1 million clams and 300,000 oysters for eventual release in Barnegat Bay, and the group is now seeking new volunteers.

"It presents an opportunity to learn where you can go to help, and also how you might become a Certified Shellfish Gardner by taking part in the educational program offered by the Barnegat Bay Shellfish Restoration Program," the group said in a statement.

Because of the projected growth of ReClam The Bay in this coming year, organizers are specifically interested in reaching out to potential new members in both the Brick Township and Long Beach Island areas.

"While raising baby clams and educating the public about their value is our primary program, ReClam The Bay is hoping to reach out to people with many different talents," the statement said. 

The group's educational programs go into the local schools, and like most organization, look for members with talents in public relations, computer skills and other areas.

The meeting will be at Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Ocean County, 1623 Whitesville Road County Hwy. 527), Toms River, NJ 08755.  Refreshments will be served.  The with questions can call the office at 732-349-1152, and ask for further information.