H.R. 360: Oyster Reef Recovery Act of 2025

This bill, known as the Oyster Reef Recovery Act of 2025, proposes the establishment of a program aimed at the conservation and restoration of oyster reefs, known as the Oyster Reef Restoration and Conservation Program. The program would be managed by the Secretary of Commerce through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Here are the main components of the bill:

Program Establishment

The bill directs the Secretary of Commerce to create a program focused on the conservation of oyster reefs, which are important for marine ecosystems and local economies.

Program Duties

The Administrator (Secretary of Commerce) is tasked with several responsibilities, including:

• Identifying areas suitable for oyster reef restoration, including existing reefs and locations where historically significant reefs could be rebuilt.
• Assessing the condition of oyster reefs, identifying threats to their health such as pollution, and proposing conservation actions.
• Conducting various projects voluntarily, such as planning, construction, and monitoring related to oyster reefs.
• Ensuring the resilience of both natural and restored oyster reefs using adaptable management practices informed by scientific research.
• Building partnerships to enhance the conservation and stewardship efforts concerning oyster reefs.
• Creating and implementing monitoring protocols to track the success of conservation and restoration activities.
• Sharing best practices and information with other organizations and the public to improve the management of oyster reefs.
• Providing training to the workforce in methods and principles related to coastal resilience and restoration, focusing particularly on benefiting underserved communities.

Grant Program

The bill establishes a competitive grant program where funds will be available for various activities related to oyster reef conservation and management. To receive a grant, applicants must:

• Submit a detailed application that demonstrates how their project will respect existing commercial and recreational fishing activities and other water-based uses in the area.

State and Tribal Management

The bill clarifies that it does not interfere with the rights of states or tribal governments to manage their oyster reefs and related species.

Funding Authorization

The bill authorizes the appropriation of $15 million per year for the fiscal years 2026 through 2030 to support the implementation of the program.

Definitions

The bill defines several terms relevant to the program:

• Administrator: Refers to the Secretary of Commerce, acting through NOAA.
• Covered entity: This includes federal, state, and local governments, non-governmental organizations, non-profits, educational institutions, and individuals or entities involved in the shellfish industry.
• Shellfish industry: Encompasses all individuals and businesses engaged in the growing or harvesting of shellfish.

Relevant Companies

• Deckers Outdoor Corporation (DECK) - May be impacted if their coastal operations or sourcing methods involve areas affected by oyster reef conservation efforts.
• Thor Industries Inc. (THO) - Could be influenced if recreational boating activities in areas under conservation plans are restricted or regulated.