Episode 24: Eric Wyatt and Blue Starr Oysters: Oyster Farming at the End of the World

Send a COMMENT to OYSTER-ology here!

The Realities of Oyster Farming in Alaska with Eric Wyatt -- OR -- From Death Comes Experience...

In this eye-opening episode of OYSTER-ology, host Kevin Cox delves into the formidable challenges of oyster farming in Alaska with Eric Wyatt, founder of Blue Starr Oysters. Eric recounts the journey from his fishing roots to building a floating oyster farm in the remote wilderness of Prince of Wales Island. Highlights include the logistical hurdles of creating and maintaining a farm off-grid, the harsh weather conditions, the complexities of transportation, and the intricate battle against biofouling and sea otter invasions. Eric also shares how his focus on efficiency has led to innovative farming techniques and the creation of the Alaska Oyster Cooperative. This episode provides a candid look at the perseverance, ingenuity, and rugged determination required to farm oysters at the End of the World.

00:00 Introduction and Expectations

00:25 Meet Eric Wyatt: Alaskan Oyster Pioneer

01:01 Building Blue Star Oysters from Scratch

02:06 Innovative Farming Techniques and Challenges

03:29 Eric's Journey to Oyster Farming

05:47 The Realities of Remote Farming

09:12 Efficiency and Innovation in Oyster Farming

23:59 The Flip Farm Revolution

27:48 The Alaska Oyster Cooperative

30:55 Challenges and Future Plans

37:36 Conclusion and Farewell

Links:

Blue Starr Oysters website (https://bluestarroysters.com/)

Link to The giant flupsy at Blue Starr (https://alaska.seaweedinsights.com/oysters/nursery)

Please be sure to Like and Follow OYSTER-ology wherever you listen to podcasts, and tell others about it. Every positive mention of it helps more people find the podcast!