Oyster farmers in Prince Edward Island are shifting their operations from the water to land, stacking their deceased harvest in piles along roads and driveways. The industry has been severely impacted by MSX and dermo diseases, which are harmless to humans but fatal to the mollusks. Consequently, many farmers are witnessing complete mortality of their oysters as they retrieve cages post-winter.
Kyle Hardy, an oyster harvester, expressed the devastating situation of having to discard all dead oysters, acknowledging the significant effort required to remove them from the water due to the parasites’ potential long-term presence. Tyler Hardy, with years of experience in the industry, recounted disposing of around $100,000 worth of deceased oysters in a single day, prompting him to consider alternative employment options.
Similarly, Gordon Jeffery, an industry veteran of over 50 years, emphasized the urgent need for support amid the crisis. He highlighted the financial strain on families and the lack of serious government intervention. Jeffery, like his peers, is compelled to dispose of dead oysters, recognizing the substantial loss and the potential repercussions on the industry and economy if the situation persists.
Concerns extend beyond the immediate impact, as younger fishers face an uncertain future. The prospect of waiting three years for newly sourced oyster seed to mature into harvestable produce adds to the industry’s challenges. Despite the hardships, the deep-rooted tradition and familial ties to oyster farming keep many involved, even in the face of dwindling government assistance.
The collective sentiment among industry insiders reflects frustration over the lack of substantial aid from provincial and federal authorities, leading some to contemplate abandoning an industry deeply ingrained in their heritage. The uncertain outlook and financial strain underscore the urgency for government support to preserve an essential sector and its livelihoods.
