In a groundbreaking partnership, Viam’s technology is empowering the Billion Oyster Project (BOP) to revolutionize the way oysters are grown and monitored in New York Harbor. This partnership represents a significant step forward in the fight to restore the harbor’s vital ecosystem and enhance its resilience to climate change.
At BOP’s facility on Governors Island, Viam’s smart sensors are playing a key role in the cultivation of over 30 million oysters. The technology includes smart cameras that provide a live video feed of the oyster tanks and temperature sensors that transmit data remotely to BOP’s team. This real-time data allows BOP to optimize tank conditions to ensure the best possible growth environment for the oysters. It also frees up valuable resources by eliminating the need for time-consuming and labor-intensive on-site monitoring.
The partnership has already yielded impressive results. During the pilot phase, over 30 million oyster larvae were monitored, with surviving spat being installed at Brooklyn Bridge Park in two phases. These oysters are expected to filter up to 50 gallons of water per day by adulthood, creating a vital breeding ground that will naturally repopulate surrounding areas. Their presence not only enhances the local ecosystem but also strengthens New York Harbor’s resilience against storm surges.
The data collected through the partnership provides BOP with invaluable insights for future oyster growing seasons. This historical data allows for comparisons between tanks and enables adjustments to be made to optimize growth conditions. The potential for further expansion of the sensor network is significant, with plans to gather data on salinity, pH levels, and other key indicators. AI models could be leveraged to further enhance growth, identify necessary adjustments, and detect potential issues.
By providing BOP with a deep understanding of oyster growth and environmental factors, Viam’s technology is making a critical contribution to the success of New York Harbor’s restoration efforts. This innovative partnership showcases the transformative potential of technology to address crucial environmental challenges and build a healthier, more resilient future for our cities.
