Education
Above all, WOA aims to educate the public about the rich history of shellfishing in Wellfleet and the deliciously dynamic realities of modern day oyster farming and wild harvesting. To this end, we develop and deliver a wide variety of educational opportunities for both locals and visitors. Of course, we also like to have some fun along the way.
Farm Tours
On the famed flats of Cape Cod Bay, within the tranquil waters of Wellfleet Harbor, lives Wellfleet’s storied shellfish industry. From late June through mid-September, WOA hosts farm visits to some of the 108 aquaculture operations that call our local waters home. These low tide walking adventures offer an up-close look at what exactly goes into growing and harvesting of a variety of local shellfish. If you like shucking and slurping, you are sure to love a visit to the special place that makes it all possible.
Our 2024 schedule & tickets are available on our events page.
Academic Scholarships
We strive to support students from our community who have their sights set on protecting Wellfleet’s historic shellfishing industry. To date, WOA has awarded over $160,000 in scholarships.
Every year, WOA awards a $15,000 scholarship to a graduate of our local Nauset Regional High School who plans to attend college and major in Marine Sciences. The scholarship is paid out in annual installments over the course of 4-years with recipients required to maintain a grade point average of 2.5 or better.
Nauset students interested in applying should speak with their guidance counselor.
Community Grant PrograM
WOA’s Community Grant Program is the strongest, most consistent, and impactful expression of our organization’s deep desire to support our local aquaculture industry and wild harvesters wherever and however they need it most. Organizations and individuals alike are eligible to apply for ongoing grant opportunities. Combined with our scholarship program, we have awarded close to $1,000,000.
Our Board of Directors evaluates applications on a rolling schedule. All applications up to $5,000 will be considered with additional funding available on a case-by-case basis.
For a list of previous recipients, or to apply for a grant, click here.
