maps are generated to illustrate the results of the targeting
effort following the protocol described in the Restoration
Siting Protocol section. The authors recognize this level
of targeting does not preclude the need for field inspection
at potential sites prior to reef construction. The atlas is
comprised of a series of boxes preceded by an index locator
(below). The scale of each box may vary. The potential restoration
areas are illustrated in red. The legend reports the total
acres available for restoration within the boundary of each
In addition to the targeted sites, additional GIS data are
included to provide assistance in site selection. Illustrated
in grey, shellfish condemnation zones represent waterways
that have been designated by the Virginia Department of Heath,
Division of Shellfish Sanitation as closed for the taking
of shellfish. These closures are based on regular fecal coliform
monitoring by the Division. The GIS data are a modified version
of AutoCAD files developed and maintained by the VMRC survey
General bathymetry is provided on the basis of water depths less than 1 m, between 1 and 6 meters, and greater than 6 meters. Salinity data are provided on the basis of greater or less than 10 ppt. Both of these data sets were developed and maintained by the Chesapeake Bay Program and are available through their website.
The location of existing restoration sites is denoted as solid black triangles. Geographic positions for reef sites were collected using Global Positioning Systems (GPS) in the field. These sites represent restoration activities that have occurred in Virginia waters with support from a variety of agencies and organizations. The VMRC has been responsible for overseeing the construction of these sites.
Sentinel monitoring stations are long-term monitoring stations where oyster populations have been recorded over time. Monitoring is being performed by VIMS and VMRC. Sentinel monitoring stations are denoted with a solid black circle.
The public oyster ground boundaries are illustrated using a thick black line. The private leases, which are administered by VMRC are illustrated with a thin black line.
Click on the name of a box to go to the corresponding site map and description.