In Lochaline the Community Association of Lochs and Sounds (CAOLAS) conducted feasibility studies for native oyster reintroduction using the remotely operated vehicle (ROV) and equipment purchased with the grant. The surveys checked for remaining wild populations, identified suitable localities and introduced juvenile native oysters into cages at the community pontoons with a view to moving to seabed reintroduction trials.
The long-term vision for the project is to reseed increasing areas with juvenile native oysters, providing wider benefits including supporting other species recovery, improving water quality and creating economic opportunities for the local community. The project has also allowed the charity to upskill, introducing new equipment and methods to staff and trustees.
In 2023 SMEEF was able to provide a grant of £14,989 to support this work using resources from the Nature Restoration Fund.