Oyster farming season begins in the Netherlands

The new oyster season has officially commenced in the Netherlands. Oyster farmers in the Oosterschelde are expressing cautious optimism regarding this year's harvest, noting that a warm summer has provided favorable conditions for the growth of future oysters.

However, the situation in the Grevelingenmeer has deteriorated significantly. Kees van Beveren, chairman of the Dutch Oyster Association, stated that the area is no longer suitable for cultivation, noting that "no more oysters come from there" and farmers are no longer investing in the region because it is no longer profitable. The decline is attributed to a lack of water circulation and oxygen in the Grevelingenmeer.

Due to the severity of the situation, rent reductions have been granted for unused oyster plots in the Grevelingenmeer. Currently, the Oosterschelde remains the only viable location for oyster farming in the country. In areas like Bruinisse, farmers are utilizing new methods, such as weekly basket rotation, to improve the shape and growth of the oysters.