Oysters are often simply considered as food, but they are also a valuable part of the marine ecosystem. Oysters remove harmful pollutants, sediment, and excess algae from the water while also providing reef habitats for fish.  Learn about The St. James “Living Shoreline” project at Waterway Park from J. Taylor Ryan, the project leader and founder.  This living shoreline of oysters is a multi-generational Citizen Scientist Community Conservation program maintained in conjunction with the UNCW’s Center for Marine Science (Benthic Ecology Lab). The Living Shoreline project has been highly successful using bagged oyster shells and marsh grasses to prevent erosion, reduce boat wake damage, and restore habitat for marine life while enhancing oyster habitat.