The Batten School & VIMS campus will be closed on Monday, March 15 due to the National Weather Service prediction for severe weather including periods of rain, damaging winds and the potential for tornadoes.

- About
- With 500+ faculty, staff and students and three campus locations, the Batten School & VIMS are equipped to tackle pressing challenges through research, education and advisory service.
  Learn More
- Research & Advisory
- Purple marsh crabs are significantly disrupting carbon cycling in salt marshes along the East Coast of the U.S., according to a study led by Batten School & VIMS scientists.
  Learn More
- Batten School
- The R. Todd Stravitz Scholars Program will provide full tuition support for students pursuing the new bachelor’s degree in coastal & marine sciences at the Batten School & VIMS.
  
  Read More
- Engage
- Popular, free camps enable rising third through eighth graders to learn about the Chesapeake Bay, coastal ecosystems and environmental stewardship.
  
  Read More
- News & Events
- National TRAP Program funds large-scale cleanup of discarded fishing gear, first round of subawards totaling more than $1.4M supports 11 projects focused on removing derelict fishing gear from coastal waters in nine U.S. states and Palau.
  
  Learn More
- Giving
- As an expression of parental pride in their daughter, Taylor Spencer ‘83 and Martha Spencer recently established an undergraduate field research endowment at the Batten School & VIMS.
  
  Read More

FAQ

Have questions about oysters, oyster farming, or how ABC supports the industry? Our FAQ section answers common questions for both visitors and industry partners, including how oysters are bred, how hatcheries use them, and how you can get involved—whether through a visit, training, or collaboration.

This page is currently under construction. Check back soon for answers to these questions and more!

Oyster Genetics and Breeding
- What is selective breeding?
- What is a triploid/ what are polyploids?
- Are polyploids GMO?
- What's the difference between spat, seed, broodstock, larvae, etc?

Products and purchasing
- How can I buy your oysters?
- What is the difference between the different oysters you offer?
Engagement & Collaboration
- Do you offer tours?
- Do you offer training?
- I want to collaborate on a research project, how can I get in touch?
- Are you taking on new graduate students?