Northern Neck Real Estate: Southern Style and Charm

What's in the water of the Rappahannock River? Oysters!

Posted on Fri, Nov 07, 2014 @ 09:17 AM

Did you know there is more in the Rappahannock River than just fish? The rivers and tributaries throughout the Northern Neck drain directly into the Chesapeake Bay. These tidal waters give life to a wide range of creatures and organisms, one of those creatures is the Oyster!

Oysters play a critical role in the health and habitat of the other creatures. Oysters help filter the microbes and other organisms floating in the water acting like a natural filter (similar to how a pool filter works). They also provide an important economic role for fisherman because they keep the water healthy for fish and oysters are harvested annually. Over-harvesting has led to both murkier water and stricter regulations for fishermen.

Bay 101: Oysters from Chesapeake Bay Program on Vimeo.

Oysters are a popular 'delicacy' on the Northern Neck. Restraunts up and down the Northern Neck take great pride in making delicious oysters the highlight of there menu. Though fresh Oysters are seasonal (late Summer to Fall).

Located on the Rappahannock River, the town of Urbanna hostes its annual Urbanna Oyster Festival in early November. Events include Arts, Crafts, Parade, Oyster Shucking Contest, Wine Tasting, Antique Car Show, and of course... Oysters. For more information, see Urbanna Oyster Festival on the web.

 

Topics: About the Northern Neck, Northern Neck Adventures, About the Middle Peninsula