Become a Master....
TOGA has a strong educational component and we teach the Tidewater area all about oysters - both adults and kids! We NEED some new educators, Master Oyster Gardeners (MOGs), to help spread the word on how oysters filter our local waters and help IMPROVE THE HEALTH of the Chesapeake Bay! If you are interested see below for how to become one, and IF already a trained Master Oyster Gardener, let us know!
We also provide the education to do so! Together with VIMS (Virginia Institute of Marine Science) TOGA puts on an entire Master Oyster Gardener Course. Active oyster gardeners in Virginia who are interested in expanding knowledge on the science and techniques of oyster gardening and sharing this knowledge with other gardeners. All skill levels are encouraged to apply, but participants must have at least 1 year of experience gardening oysters. Learn More and Sign-up at VIMS.
Course Components
In total we estimate 15 hours of learning activities and 20 hours of volunteer experience.
- VIMS: the Science of Shellfish Aquaculture – Oyster Gardening This content will be made available via an online learning management system which can be accessed at any time and completed at participant’s own pace.
- TOGA: Methods and Management This will be an in-person activity at an active oyster garden site and will cover the fundamentals of the gear, management and siting of an oyster garden.
VIMS: Hands on Learning This will be an in-person opportunity at VIMS’ Acuff Center for Aquaculture in the early fall of each year for those who have completed the online coursework. It will cover critters of the garden, oyster anatomy, an introduction to oyster production, and provide an opportunity to engage with session instructors. - TOGA Volunteer Experience After completion of the prior components, participants will connect with the TOGA outreach coordinator to participate in at least 3 volunteer opportunities.
- MOG Quiz / Exit Interview
