Take a Deep Dive into Oyster nurseries and husbandry: Techniques, Genetics, and Personal Journeys

This 'OYSTER-ology' episode features an engaging conversation with Jesse Honiker of Hama Hama Oyster Company, a premier oyster farm in Washington's Hood Canal and Puget Sound. Jessie runs Hama Hama's Nursery of millions of baby oysters, raising them until big and strong enough to go out into the open water to grow into outstanding oysters for consumption. Our discussion provides an in-depth exploration of an oyster nursery and farming practices and innovations. Jesse discusses oyster husbandry using a floating upweller system (FLUPSY), highlighting the processes from nursery to bay, genetic advancements, and the importance of shell size and shape maintenance. The episode delves into the challenges and rewards of cultivating different strains of oysters, including the genetically resilient Miyagi and Midori oysters, and the historically significant Olympia oyster. Jesse shares her transition from crop farming to oyster farming, discussing sustainable food production, the intricacies of managing vast numbers of oysters, and the role of environmental factors in farming practices. Jesse, an expert with a background in both land and marine agriculture, shares experiences from the Hama Hama, shedding light on nursery management, developmental stages, and the physical demands of the job. The discussion also delves into the genetic development of oysters, exploring diploids and triploids, and the challenges posed by climate change. Personal anecdotes and insights into Jesse's diverse background and some of her more unusual experiences working at Hama Hama enrich the narrative, emphasizing the community's integral role in the ongoing sustainability of aquaculture and revealing the therapeutic benefits of farming, the journey from crop farming to oyster farming, and teaching farming to incarcerated women. This episode offers a rich blend of technical knowledge, historical context, and personal experiences, highlighting Jessie's passion and dedication behind the critical baby oyster/nursery phase of sustainable oyster farming.

00:00 Introduction to Oyster Complexity

00:11 Meet Jesse Honaker: Oyster Expert

01:09 Oyster Nursery Management

02:14 Challenges and Adventures in Oyster Farming

03:01 Daily Operations at Hama Hama

05:35 Oyster Nursery Details

07:52 FLUPSY and Advanced Sorting Techniques

16:28 Oyster Growth and Seeding Methods

23:58 The Importance of Olympia Oysters

28:58 Unique Challenges with Olympia Oysters

31:54 Navigating the Tides and Safety

33:43 Cold Waters and Waders: Making Good Choices

34:24 Genetic Development of Oysters: Diploids and Triploids

40:21 Exploring DNA and RNA in Oyster Genetics

42:59 Challenges and Innovations in Oyster Farming

49:02 A Journey from Land Farming to Oyster Farming

58:57 Sustainable Protein Sources: Oysters and Beyond

01:01:51 The Emotional Connection to Oyster Farming

01:06:13 Concluding Thoughts and Future Prospects

Links:
Hama Hama Oyster Company

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This INAUGURAL episode features an in-depth discussion between host Kevin Cox and award-winning author and world-renowned oyster expert Rowan Jacobsen. Together they explore various aspects of oysters, including their role in cuisine, culture, and history. The conversation covers a broad spectrum of subjects, including the basics of oysters, the sensory art of eating oysters and the best practices for tasting and enjoying them. They also talk about the romantic and slightly erotic nuances of oyster consumption and the concept of 'merroir'—the environmental influences on oyster flavors. Rowan describes the distinct differences between regional oyster farming techniques, especially in the Gulf of Mexico and the Pacific Northwest, the evolution and diversity of oysters in different regions and the role of shellfish in human evolution. The discussion also delves into oyster restoration efforts and highlights Rowan's adventures in hunting down lesser-known oyster species like the Olympia oyster. Enjoy this rich tapestry of interconnected themes with this very special guest.

00:00 Introduction to Oysterology

00:29 Meet the Host and Podcast Overview

01:45 Introducing Rowan Jacobson

05:30 Rowan's Journey with Oysters

07:56 Understanding Oysters: Biology and Ecology

11:49 Oyster Restoration and Aquaculture

21:32 Gulf Oysters and Their Reputation

27:44 Oyster Varieties and Merroir

42:13 The Art of Shucking Oysters

43:18 Oyster Influencers and the Master Oyster Guild

44:00 Oyster Shucking Techniques Around the World

45:12 Favorite Oyster Recipes and Cooking Tips

46:13 The Controversy of Barbecued Oysters

47:20 Innovative Oyster Pairings with Alcohol

49:45 The Creamy Oyster Debate

55:50 Oysters and Human Evolution

01:01:38 The Environmental Impact of Oyster and Fish Farming

01:04:30 The Legacy of Wild Oysters in America

01:05:48 The Unique Flavor of Olympia Oysters

01:10:00 Debunking Oyster Myths

01:10:56 Exploring New Topics and Future Projects

01:16:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Links:
https://www.rowanjacobsen.com/ Rowan's website - Check it out!

Introducing OYSTER-ology: Dive into the World of Oysters

In this introductory non-episode of OYSTER-ology, host Kevin Cox announces the launch of this new podcast dedicated to all things oysters and aquaculture. OYSTER-ology is a virtual gathering place for oyster aficionados including farmers, shuckers, scientists, writers, and environmental activists to share their knowledge and experiences. The podcast series will feature interviews with an array of industry experts who will cover a wide range of topics related to oysters, from cultivation to consumption and pretty much any other aspect of oysters and aquaculture. Episodes will cover topics ranging from shellfish ecology and restoration to the cultural and culinary significance of oysters. Kevin will highlight people involved in uncommon businesses relating to oysters, including tourism, clothing, technology cooking and writing, just to mention a few. The series will also uncover historical perspectives, regional farming practices, and the technological advances in oyster aquaculture. There will be episodes that explore the intricacies of eating oysters, tasting tips and shucking techniques, as well as the evolving oyster culture in various parts of the world. Beyond just oysters, Kevin will also present other important and emerging aspects of aquaculture, including the growing demand for seaweed. Whether examining the environmental benefits of oyster farming or demystifying common misconceptions about oysters and aquaculture, this series is a must-listen for all oyster farmers, aquaculturists, enthusiasts and newcomers.

Please be sure to Follow OYSTER-ology on your favorite podcast platform, and tell others about it. Every mention of it helps more people find the podcast!