Massachusetts Declares November Oyster Month
Governor Healey's proclamation spotlights the state's fast-growing shellfish farming sector and its economic and ecological role.
Updated on Nov. 9, 2026 in Organic Food
Governor Healey declared November Massachusetts Oyster Month, recognizing the cultural, economic, and ecological importance of shellfish cultivation in the state. The announcement was celebrated with officials and aquaculture representatives at the Copley Square Farmers Market in Boston.
Why it matters
Oysters are now the fastest-growing agricultural sector in Massachusetts and the third most valuable landed species in the state, making the industry a significant part of the regional blue economy. The formal recognition highlights growing state investment in aquaculture as a source of jobs and coastal ecosystem benefits.
Massachusetts farmers sold more than 60 million oysters in 2025, generating over $35 million, with landing value up 12% from 2024 and 13% from 2023. The state's oyster output has grown sharply over 15 years, with oysters sold tripling and revenue quadrupling, though the stub does not break down production by farm size.
The players
Governor Maura Healey
Governor Maura Healey is the Governor of Massachusetts, who issued the proclamation recognizing November as Massachusetts Oyster Month.
Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries
The Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries is the state agency that regulates shellfish growing areas and runs the aquaculture and habitat restoration programs.
The details
Attendees at the Copley Square Farmers Market event took part in oyster shucking demonstrations and sampled fresh local shellfish. The Division of Marine Fisheries Shellfish Program regulates growing areas to protect public health, and its Habitat Restoration Program is restoring eelgrass, kelp, and oyster reefs.
Timeline
• 2013: The Division of Marine Fisheries created a dedicated aquaculture program.
• 2025 season: Farmers sold more than 60 million oysters and generated over $35 million.
• November 2026: Governor Healey declared November Massachusetts Oyster Month.
Industry Trajectory
The state's Division of Marine Fisheries created a dedicated aquaculture program in 2013 that now oversees municipal sites. The 2025 growth in oyster sales and revenue extends that program's expansion, showing aquaculture as a rising state industry.
Massachusetts residents can find fresh local oysters at farmers markets and seafood retailers during the month-long recognition. The industry's growth across nearly 400 farms in 33 coastal communities may expand the availability of locally farmed shellfish.
The takeaway
Oysters are more than a seafood choice here: they support working waterfronts and help restore eelgrass, kelp, and reef habitats. Buying local shellfish from Massachusetts farms supports both the regional economy and coastal ecosystems.
Further reading
Explore more on Organic Food coverage across the state.
