About Us
What is the ORRC
The Oyster Resource & Recovery Center (ORRC) at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi’s Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies is a premier initiative offering free online training in oyster hatchery and farming. Led by renowned experts, our program equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary for successful oyster farming, covering topics such as hatchery management, seed production, cultivation methods, and environmental factors. Through a blend of theoretical instruction, practical experiences, and industry collaborations, we prepare students to excel in the field while promoting sustainable aquaculture practices.
Funded by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, this groundbreaking project focuses on workforce development in oyster aquaculture, contributing to the enhancement of coastal ecosystems and environmental resilience. Join our commitment to preserving marine habitats through cutting-edge education and research for a sustainable future.
Our Mission and Vision
The ORRC initiative is led by the Harte Research Institute whose distinctive interdisciplinary approach sets it apart from other marine research institutions. HRI has been at the center of oyster aquaculture in Texas since it was established in 2019.
Our Team
Ellis (Chappie) Chapman Jr.
Toi Tippin
Subject Matter Experts and Principal Investigators
Joe Miller
Dr. Jenni Pollack
Dr. Gregory Stunz
Dr. Chris Hollenbeck
Dr. Joseph Matt
Dr. Anita Reed
Brad Lomax
Mario Marquez
Special Thanks
to our Collaborators for the creation of this programUniversity of Southern Mississippi - Gulf Coast Research Laboratory - Ocean Springs, Mississippi (USM - GCRL)
USM - GCRL aided in the filming of their hatchery and provided great images and videos of an operational algal production system. They also demonstrated how a “inland hatchery” works and operates. Look for personal interviews from the manager and chief phycologist.
Auburn University Shellfish Laboratory - Dauphin Island, Alabama (AUSL)
AUSL assisted in allowing the filming and personal interviews from oyster hatchery professionals. Also, they assisted in filming in the processes involved in an oyster hatchery. Processes such as: larval rearing, a live “natural” spawn, filtration, nursery areas and pump dynamics. They also gave access to certain farm structures and helped demonstrate the use of: Australian longlines, floating cages, and flip farm gear.
Texas A&M AgriLife Research Laboratory - Flour Bluff, Corpus Christi, TX (TAMU AgriLife)
TAMU AgriLife assisted in the filming and photography of an active oyster hatchery. They allowed a physical demonstration of a “strip” spawn. They also allowed the filming and photography of their broodstock conditioning tanks, larval rearing and in-house nursery.
Texas Oyster Ranch - Taft, TX (TOR)
TOR opened up their facilities and allowed the filming of their farm and operations facility. They aided in filming and photographing an active oyster farm and the day-to-day operations involved with an oyster farm. TOR also provided an interview about his farm and the origins of Texas Oyster Aquaculture.
DJs Oyster Company - Palacios, TX (DJOC)
DJOC assisted in filming of their farm and operation. They actively demonstrated how an oyster farm works and operates. They lended their farm employees for the ORRC program to film and actively aided in filming and photography. Also, the farm manager/owner provided a personally interview and testimony.
It’s all in a day’s work at Texas Oyster Ranch!
Texas’ first permitted oyster farm, situated in Copano Bay, has led the charge in this burgeoning and lucrative industry in the state. Back in August, the Harte Research Institute was able to tag along to see the oyster harvest process, all the way to when the oysters are bagged, refrigerated and ready for restaurant plates
Learn in our specialized workshops
The ORRC will provide industry specific workshops on a bi-annual basis to facilitate successful business planning for participants interested in establishing an oyster farm. Topics such as general marketing strategies, consumer behavior, product branding and placement, and entrepreneurship will be presented at no cost to participants. Stay tuned for details about upcoming workshops!
Explore our Internships
Upon successful completion of the online courses, you will receive a survey link that will allow you to express interest in participating in a 12-week paid work experience at a permitted oyster farm or in an oyster hatchery in Flour Bluff, Texas.
As a selected intern, you will be hired and paid by Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi for 12 weeks. Upon completion of the internship, the farm or hatchery may decide to hire you as their employee.
To be considered an eligible candidate for an internship, you must:
- Complete the online courses
- Be at least 18 years old
- Complete a background check
- Have a valid Driver's License and Social Security Card OR a valid Passport