Biological and Physical Monitoring Data of Restored Oyster Reef in Savannah River, Savannah, GA from May 2023 - February 2025

For the purposes of this study, we constructed two oyster reefs in Savannah, GA, USA using standard spat-on-shell restoration methodology. Reefs were constructed 1-2 meters from the marsh edge to reduce wave energy as it approached the shoreline, similar to a breakwater. We then conducted monitoring on the biological function of the reef, including live juvenile oyster coverage, size, and abundance for approximately 18 months. We also quantified the energy flux of waves offshore and onshore of the reef using water pressure measurements to determine the capability of these reefs at reducing wave energy. The oyster reefs in this study decreased wave energy by up to 40% compared to paired, non-reef control sites. Constructed oyster reefs also experienced healthy oyster population growth throughout the study, with live juvenile coverage of 17-40% almost 18 months post-deployment. This study took place in an erosion-prone area due to recreational and commercial boating traffic at the nearby Port of Savannah. Our results indicate that using restored oyster reefs as living shorelines is a technique with high potential for preventing shoreline loss in coastal areas vulnerable to anthropogenically-caused erosion. Restored Reef Site 1: 32.067957°, -80.985005° Control Site 1: 32.0675194°, -80.986369° Restored Reef Site 2: 32.062663°, -80.965147° Control Site 2: 32.063261°, -80.965889°