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At Local Catch, we’re always excited to share stories that highlight those who are part of our local seafood community. We sat down with Mandy Uticone, owner of Carolina Beach Oyster Company, who pursues her passion for the ocean with sustainable practices to bring fresh, delicious oysters to the table.

Mandy’s experience began at UNCW, where she pursued environmental science and later taught marine science. Her passion for marine ecosystems led her to a degree in Aquaculture, eventually founding Carolina Beach Oyster Co. five years ago. Prior to taking a leap into owning her own oyster farm, Mandy got a taste for oysters volunteering on a friend’s oyster farm.

“Knowing the importance of oysters as a keystone species and for being amazing filter feeders, I knew it was the right fit for me,” Mandy describes.

Oysters are more than just a seafood delicacy; they play a critical role in marine ecosystems as filter feeders, purifying the waters they inhabit. Mandy recounts being drawn to oyster farming for its environmental benefits and the sustainability of the practice. At Carolina Beach Oyster Company, every oyster raised not only contributes to healthier water, but also supports local biodiversity.

Mandy describes oyster farming as a labor of love, being a meticulous process that begins with securing a lease from the state. The process starts with purchasing equipment and oyster seed from a hatchery. The cultivation process, which typically spans 12-18 months in NC depending on the seed size, involves detailed and frequent care. This includes “tumbling” the oysters, a critical step that helps shape and clean them, while also encouraging a deeper shell cup which is highly valued in the half-shell market. The oysters are also sorted via size to ensure the larger ones don’t outcompete the smaller oysters for food. Another aspect to oyster farming is the constant maintenance to equipment in the saltwater environment.

Despite the rewarding aspects of their work, oyster farmers like Mandy face significant challenges, including unpredictable oyster mortalities and the complexities involved in managing a sustainable oyster farm. From selecting the right lease to the intricacies of breeding and maintaining healthy oysters, her work is a testament to the dedication required of oyster farmers.

Mandy’s approach to her business is personal. As a small-scale, woman-owned oyster farm, she focuses on quality over quantity, choosing to connect with her customers through home deliveries. She has carved out a niche by focusing on relationships with her customers, especially those looking to enjoy fresh oysters at their gatherings and events. This hands-on approach has built a loyal customer base and allows her to maintain sustainable farming practices without overwhelming her resources.

Mandy’s dedication to her craft and her commitment to the environment make Carolina Beach Oyster Co a standout example of sustainable seafood farming along the Carolina coast.

Interested in shucking some of Mandys finest oysters? You can connect with her through the Local Catch app.