Revolution on the Half Shell recycles 6,000 oyster shells

An oyster roast in Greensboro recently benefited the North Carolina Coastal Federation.

Revolution on the Half Shell, hosted by Revolution Mill, took place Dec. 15. More than 100 attendees enjoyed oysters, live music, craft beer and a marshmallow roast.

Kelly Bodie, membership director for the federation, organized 10 federation volunteers to recycle oyster shells at the event. Approximately 6,000 shells recycled at the event will be used in future restoration projects and support the 50 Million Oyster Initiative. This initiative, launched by the federation in early 2017, aims to restore 50 acres of oyster reef to North Carolina waters by 2020.

“Revolution on the Half Shell was a blast. It was a pleasure to gather with the Greensboro community in this historic space to share something the federation values — oysters,” Bodie said. “The shells recycled from this event have a bright future in one of our restoration projects.”

More than two dozen oysters were also adopted at the event. The Adopt an Oyster program allows people to support the 50 Million Oyster Initiative through a $5 donation. Participants receive updates on the status of their adopted oyster as it moves through its life stages.

Restoring oysters is one of the federation’s key priorities. Oysters provide habitat for commercially important fish and filter water, resulting in a healthier coastal environment and economy.

The federation was grateful to be the beneficiary of the event. Revolution Mill is a mixed-use development that is being revitalized by Self-Help. It was once the first flannel mill in the South. Revolution Mill puts on events like this one to foster community relationships.

This event would not have been possible without the support of sponsors: Blackstone Fire Control; CT Wilson Construction Company, Inc; Cugino Forno; Fainting Goat Spirits by Greensboro Distilling Co; Natty Greene’s Brewing Co.; and Urban Grinders / UG Revolution Mill.