In a groundbreaking collaboration, Viam, the software platform for smart machines, is lending its technological prowess to the Billion Oyster Project (BOP), an organization dedicated to restoring oyster reefs in New York Harbor. This partnership marks a significant step towards revitalizing the city’s waterways and enhancing its resilience against the impacts of climate change.
At BOP’s facility on Governors Island, Viam’s technology has been integrated into four tanks where oysters are grown and attached to reef structures before being transplanted to New York Harbor. This innovative setup includes a smart camera that provides a live feed of the tanks, as well as temperature sensors that transmit data remotely to BOP’s team. This real-time data allows for constant observation and adjustments to tank conditions, optimizing the environment for oyster growth.
The impact of this technological intervention is twofold. Not only does it ensure optimal growth conditions, but it also frees up BOP’s team from hours of demanding and unscalable on-site monitoring, enabling them to dedicate their resources to cultivating and installing more oysters. This partnership has already yielded significant results, with over 30 million larval oysters monitored by Viam’s technology and subsequently installed at Brooklyn Bridge Park.
The restored oyster reefs play a crucial role in the health of the New York Harbor ecosystem. These filter feeders remove toxins from the water, providing essential habitat for marine life and reducing wave force during storms. Each adult oyster is capable of filtering up to 50 gallons of water per day, contributing to cleaner waters and a thriving marine environment. This restoration project also enhances the long-term resilience of New York Harbor against storm surges, safeguarding the city from the impacts of climate change.
The data gathered through this partnership goes beyond real-time monitoring, offering invaluable insights for future oyster growing seasons. By comparing historical data and evaluating conditions across tanks, BOP can refine its practices and optimize oyster growth even further. The potential for expansion is immense, with the possibility of integrating sensors that measure additional key indicators, such as salinity and pH levels. This data, coupled with AI models, could further optimize oyster growth, identify necessary adjustments, and even detect potential issues before they arise.
This partnership showcases the powerful potential of technology to address environmental challenges and contribute to a healthier, more resilient planet. Viam’s technology, coupled with BOP’s dedication to restoring the New York Harbor ecosystem, promises a future where the city’s waterways are not only revitalized but also serve as a model for sustainable urban development.
