On September 19 (10AM to 1PM) TOGA will hold its annual Oyster Float Building Workshop. This will be the best opportunity this year for potential oyster growers to acquire the seed, materials, and information needed to get started in growing their own oysters. And for those who are currently growing their own oysters, it's a great opportunity to discuss with the vendors the various types of seed available, different float techniques, and learn about changes and advancements in the area of growing oysters. This event always has a large turnout, so if you are interested, be sure to complete the registration form to register to build a float, and contact the seed vendor directly so you can get your oyster seed for the coming year.

For the first time, TOGA will offer to assist in building one new type of float - the "Flip float" - and one type of cage, the "Delano". Each has different uses and applicability. See the photos and comments below.

Last year more than 30 "traditional" Taylor floats were completed at this event, and with the additional MOGs (Master Oyster Gardeners) that were educated and trained last month, along with the growing interest in oyster gardening, aquaculture, and cleaning up the Bay, we expect to have a record number of people building their own floats at this event. Due to TOGA's need to purchase adequate materials to build enough floats, it is helpful if you can get your application form and payment in early, so that we can be assured of having enough pipe, wire, and materials for everyone to build the floats that they need. Information on the latest growing techniques and the various types of seed will also be available, along with T-shirts and "expert" advice. Everything you need to start growing your own oysters will be available, so be sure to join us on the 19th of September. This event will take place at VIMS, the Virginia Institute of Marine Science, at Gloucester Point, at their hatchery under the Coleman Bridge.

Further information can be had by calling Steve Wann at (804) 642-3797. Steve can also be reached at sailsw00@gmail.com.

registration form

Constructing the popular Taylor Float- Taylor floats contain about 500 adult oysters.  They may require extra equipment (such as a hoist, lift or ramp) to get out of the water when they contain mature oysters.  They may be vulnerable to otters and birds unless a top cover is used.  Cleaning is a little more difficult than with the Flip Float or Delano because it cannot be flipped over without spilling the oysters.  The oysters are easily accessible.  The workshop charge is $75.

Flip Float- The Flip float contains about 400 adult oysters and is more compact and easier to retrieve from the water that the Taylor Float.  The oysters are completely contained and less vulnerable to predators.  It is easier to clean because it can be flipped.  It can float on either side alternately, allowing the sun and air to minimize fouling.  The oysters are less accessible because they have to be dumped out by opening the lid at one end.  The workshop cost is $40.

The "Delano"- The Delano is the lightest and easiest to handle of the three options shown.  It contaions about 100 adult oysters.  It does not float, but hangs by rope from a pier, so that it remains under water at low tide, but is not in the mud. The bag must be purchased from a vendor.  The workshop cost is $15.