Make a Difference in Your Local Marine Environment: Join The Wild Oysters Project as a Volunteer!

Make a Difference in Your Local Marine Environment: Join The Wild Oysters Project

Native oyster populations in UK seas have declined by 95% since the 1800s. These incredible creatures once formed vast reefs that filtered our waters and supported rich biodiversity. By restoring oyster habitats, the Wild Oysters Project is working to bring life back to our seas and improve coastal resilience. 

We care for over 800 oysters in our nurseries at Sunderland Marina, and we’re looking for volunteers to help us keep an eye on them as part of our monthly monitoring surveys—come join us!

What does volunteering involve?

Our surveys take place on the first Tuesday of every month at Sunderland Marina and typically last 3–4 hours. You’ll be working alongside our friendly team and other volunteers, getting involved in real conservation work. No prior experience or equipment is needed, and all training and information will be provided on the day. You will just need sturdy, waterproof clothing and a positive attitude! 

Here’s what a typical day might include:

•Oyster health and reproduction surveys: You’ll assist in checking oysters for signs of disease, growth, and reproductive activity. This will involve retrieving our oyster cages from the sea, with some gentle handling and visual inspection.

•Biodiversity net surveys: You’ll help collect and identify mobile marine animals (like crabs, shrimp, and small fish) using nets. We record what species are present and how many we find.

•Photo surveys of oysters: We’ll take close-up photos of oysters to document the sessile (non-moving) animals living on their shells—like barnacles, sea squirts, and baby oysters!

This is a great opportunity for anyone who enjoys being outdoors, loves the sea, and wants to learn more about marine life and habitat restoration. You’ll gain valuable experience and contribute to a meaningful environmental project.

About the Project

The Wild Oysters Project: Tyne and Wear is a partnership between the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) and Groundwork North East and Cumbria.

It’s funded by the Stronger Shores Partnership, led by South Tyneside Council, with support from Defra through the Flood and Coastal Resilience Innovation Programme (FCRIP), managed by the Environment Agency.

What skills do I need?

• Enthusiasm for marine conservation
• Willingness to work outdoors in variable conditions
• Ability to follow instructions and work safely
• No prior experience or qualifications required

About Groundwork North East and Cumbria

Groundwork was founded in the North of England. It was at a time of political, social and economic challenge. It was an experiment. To help communities cope with change. To work together. To make their lives and neighbourhoods better. That spirit of enterprise and innovation have never been more needed. In every community – however disadvantaged – there are deep reserves of pride. People with the passion and ideas to improve their circumstances and surroundings. Groundwork exists to harness that pride. To unlock that passion. Our services, projects and programmes change people’s lives. They can also make our communities more resilient for the future. We are dedicated to protecting the environment and fostering a future where people and the planet can thrive together. We aim to support communities across the region to achieve their full potential through pride and place no matter the challenges they face. As an organisation, we are proud to support so many individuals who join us through our projects, to create a cleaner, healthier and more sustainable environment. Groundwork are an organisation that embraces transformation. We positively change places and people’s lives, in partnership where we can.

When do I need to be available?

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