Oyster Reef Recovery Act of 2025

This bill, known as the Oyster Reef Recovery Act of 2025, mandates the Secretary of Commerce, through the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), to establish the Oyster Reef Restoration and Conservation Program . The program's primary goal is the comprehensive conservation of oyster reefs across the nation, providing crucial support for these vital marine ecosystems. Under this program, NOAA will offer technical and financial assistance to various entities, including government bodies, non-profits, and the shellfish industry. This assistance will facilitate identifying restoration priorities, evaluating reef health through mapping and water quality monitoring, and conducting voluntary projects for restoration, protection, and enhancement. The program also emphasizes building partnerships, implementing monitoring protocols, and sharing best management practices to ensure the long-term success and resilience of oyster reefs. Furthermore, the bill establishes a competitive grant program to fund research, planning, construction, and capacity-building efforts related to oyster reef conservation. Applicants must demonstrate that their projects will not interfere with commercial or recreational fishing. The legislation authorizes an appropriation of $15,000,000 for each fiscal year from 2026 through 2030 to carry out these initiatives, while explicitly stating that it does not preempt or limit the authority of States or Indian Tribes to manage oyster reefs.