OCVA/REEFTEK OYSTER ECO REEF MODULE (OERM) |
| The strategy for the Oyster Eco Reef Module is to present
proposals to various government agencies and organizations to
show the value added proposition of using the Oyster Company of
Virginia's Reeftek “Aqua
Farm” Program for multiple benefits. The nutrient reduction
value of the “oyster” and other “filter feeding” organisms that
attach to the OERM are currently being validated through a
Federal and State “task group” of scientists. OCVA is positioned
to be the leading solutions provider with this In Situ
technology using the OERM. A variety of business proposals with
this program will be prepared and submitted to successfully be
awarded contracts through the “public” sector and offered as
proactive investment within the private sector. Water Quality Trading in Virginia is provided through the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Nutrient Credit Exchange, administered through the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) for nonpoint source credits is outlined in statute and defined in regulations. Based on our consultants estimate and statements from EPA, we should be able to validate the quantitative value of our Oyster Eco Reef Module within two to three years. OCVA/Reeftek's proactive strategy is to begin building the “OERM” Aqua Farm system(s) within the next year so natural recruitment of the oyster and other “filter feeding” organisms can develop on the OERM’s and mature, reaching maximum filtration efficiency starting in year three. The implementation of these "Aqua Farms" is through OCVA/Reeftek partnerships with Coastal Precast, Hanson, Commonwealth Pro-Dive and a variety of consultants to navigate the policies, procedures, deployment and monitoring, where applicable. Site specific designs for each watershed will be engineered and developed using the latest technologies and methods to maximize the natural recruitment within the OCVA/Reeftek Aqua Farm matrix. These OERMs are designed for both permanent and relay reef restoration projects. |