USA: Secretary Salazar Issues Decision on Point Reyes National Seashore Permit

Multipart decision includes transition for oyster company, clarity for ranching activities, and fulfilling Congressional vision for wilderness

Press Release
11/29/2012
Contact: Blake Androff (DOI) 202-208-6416

WASHINGTON – Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar today issued a decision that will allow the Drakes Bay Oyster Company’s operating permit to expire at Point Reyes National Seashore in California according to its terms, and will return the affected area to wilderness. The decision also ensures that, in keeping with the historic use of the land, existing sustainable ranching operations within the national park will continue.

In 1972, the National Park Service purchased the land that housed the oyster operation and the owner reserved a 40-year right to continue its activities through November 30, 2012. In 2004, Drakes Bay Oyster Company acquired the business from the prior owner. Today’s decision will end the company’s commercial operations within the national park, including an onshore oyster processing facility and offshore oyster harvesting activities that occur on over 1,000 acres in the estuary

Source: Secretary Salazar Issues Decision on Point Reyes National Seashore Permit
Author: U.S. Department of the Interior

Link: End of the Line for an Oyster Farm