Maryland Extends Oyster Season After Brutal Winter

The state's Department of Natural Resources adds two weeks to help watermen make up for lost harvesting time.

Published on Mar. 1, 2026

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After an unusually harsh winter that saw prolonged freezing temperatures and ice coverage on waterways, Maryland's Department of Natural Resources has announced a two-week extension to the state's commercial oyster season. The season, which was originally set to end on March 31, will now run until April 14 to help watermen make up for lost harvesting time due to the difficult conditions.

Why it matters

The extension is an effort to support Maryland's watermen, who have faced steep declines in oyster sales despite data showing oyster populations in the Chesapeake Bay and local rivers have reached their highest levels in over 20 years. The brutal winter weather disrupted access to traditional harvesting areas, leading the state to intervene to provide relief.

The details

The Department of Natural Resources said it made the decision to extend the season after extensive conversations with industry stakeholders and scientists. The extension will not allow for handscraping of oysters in hand tong areas, and current gear restrictions and bushel limits will remain in effect.

  • The original oyster season was set to end on March 31, 2026.
  • The season has now been extended by two weeks, and will run until April 14, 2026.

The players

Maryland Department of Natural Resources

The state agency responsible for managing Maryland's natural resources, including the Chesapeake Bay and its oyster populations.

Josh Kurtz

The secretary of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

Rep. Andy Harris

A U.S. Representative from Maryland who has requested an emergency disaster declaration to provide aid to the state's watermen.

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What they’re saying

“Maryland's watermen have faced a difficult oyster season after recent declines in market demand and ice on waterways blocked access to traditional harvest areas.”

— Josh Kurtz, Secretary, Maryland Department of Natural Resources (Patch.com)

“DNR made this decision after extensive conversations with industry stakeholders and scientists.”

— Josh Kurtz, Secretary, Maryland Department of Natural Resources (Patch.com)

What’s next

Rep. Andy Harris has issued a letter to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration requesting an emergency disaster declaration, which would provide immediate aid to Maryland's watermen.

The takeaway

This extension highlights the challenges faced by Maryland's watermen due to the state's brutal winter weather, and the efforts by the Department of Natural Resources to support the industry and ensure the ongoing resurgence of oyster populations in the Chesapeake Bay.