Abstract:
A method and apparatus incorporating erosion preventing mats or blankets having oyster spat are placed to prevent or reduce erosion. The method and apparatus incorporates seeding with oyster spat and/or oyster larvae onto a blanket having rough surfaces and comprising calcium. After seeding and setting natural growth of the oyster larvae can create a barrier that helps prevent erosion by breaking the kinetic energy of waves.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This is a non-provisional of U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 62/295,460, filed Feb. 15, 2016, which application in incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
     
    
     STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT 
       [0002]    Not applicable 
       REFERENCE TO A “MICROFICHE APPENDIX” 
       [0003]    Not applicable 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0004]    Improvements are needed regarding protection against the erosion of shorelines. In many areas, soil conditions are such that shorelines or banks are susceptible to damage due to wave action and/or water wash induced by marine traffic, storms, flash floods and the like. 
         [0005]    As an example of the erosion which can occur along a waterway and the problems associated therewith, consider the Mississippi River Gulf Outlet (the “MRGO”) which runs through coastal marsh of southeast Louisiana. Originally, the MRGO was conceived as a shortcut to the Port of New Orleans from the Gulf of Mexico avoiding the serpentine Mississippi River. There, the MRGO was created by dredging a channel through the mud, muck, marsh and wetlands of southeastern Louisiana. When originally completed, in the early 1960&#39;s, the MRGO was approximately 36-38 feet deep, and between 500 to 600 feet wide. Since then, the sidewalls and banks of the MRGO have been subjected to erosion due to wave action from marine vessels, as well as from waves induced via wind action, including tropical storms and hurricanes which periodically slam into the coast of Louisiana. As a result of such erosion of its sidewalls and banks, the average width of the MRGO by 2005 had expanded to about 2,000 feet, i.e., about three to four times its original width. 
         [0006]    As the width of the MRGO grew, the adjacent coastline of Louisiana lost the benefit of the soil and vegetation which used to be present there and which served as a buffer to dampen the storm surge and winds which accompany tropical storms and hurricanes. The greatly expanded width of the MRGO, caused by the erosion of its sidewalls and banks, contributed to the devastation of the City of New Orleans and the surrounding area which was wrought by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The hurricane&#39;s wind created a catastrophic storm surge of water that raced unimpeded up the hugely-expanded MRGO and into the city, resulting in over one thousand deaths and billions of dollars in property damage. 
         [0007]    A similar problem exists where the shoreline of an open body of water, such as a lake, is subject to wave wash due to marine vessels and/or wind-induced wave action. The erosion of such shoreline is particularly detrimental when it occurs on barrier islands which otherwise serve to protect the adjacent mainland from storms. Such erosion also damages the delicate ecosystem and habitat of plants, animals and marine life living in the area. 
         [0008]    A similar problem exists along the banks of fresh-water streams which are subject to erosion due to water wash associated with flash floods, as for example after a torrential rain. 
         [0009]    To prevent such problems, various embodiments can provide cost-effective methods and apparatuses for protecting shorelines, sidewalls and banks against erosion due to wave action and/or water wash. 
         [0010]    In various embodiments of the method and apparatus erosion preventing mats or blankets having oyster spat are placed to prevent or reduce erosion. 
         [0011]    In prior art systems oyster spat and/or oyster larvae can spawn naturally so that as the reefs grow they can be harvested recreationally. As the oysters mature and spawn, larvae will adhere to blankets where the larvae can grow together tending to form a solid piece. 
         [0012]    In naturally occurring prior art systems much of the oyster larvae released into the wild tends to float along water currents and not grow together to form a structure that resists erosion. Instead, these oyster larvae typically end up in commercially harvested oyster beds replenishing the natural supply of oysters harvested by oyster men. 
         [0013]    Some erosion control systems have been patented. An example is U.S. Pat. No. 4,370,075 entitled Revetment Grids and Mats which is incorporated herein by reference. 
       BRIEF SUMMARY 
       [0014]    The method and apparatus solves the problems confronted in the art in a simple and straightforward manner. 
         [0015]    Various embodiments can be used along a shoreline where an open body of water such as a gulf, lake or bay washes against the shore. 
         [0016]    Various embodiments can also be used along channeled waterways, such as rivers, canals, streams and bayous (hereinafter referred to collectively as “waterways”), where the water washes against the sidewalls and banks through which it passes. 
         [0017]    In one embodiment is provided is a method and apparatus having a plurality of specially configured articulating mats or blankets being substantially coated on their top surfaces with previously set oyster spat. 
         [0018]    In various embodiments of the method and apparatus erosion preventing mats or blankets having oyster spat are placed in areas to prevent or reduce erosion. 
         [0019]    In various embodiments the method and apparatus incorporates seeding with oyster spat and/or oyster larvae onto a blanket having rough surfaces and comprising calcium. After seeding and setting natural growth of the oyster spat can create a barrier that helps prevent erosion by breaking the kinetic energy of waves. 
         [0020]    In various embodiments as the oysters mature and spawn, larvae will adhere to structural blankets where the larvae can grow together tending to form a structure that can resist erosion due to wave action. 
         [0021]    In various embodiments of the method and apparatus, outside of a natural waterway, oyster spat and/or larvae can be seeded in a confined setting volume allowing for protected setting onto a base structure, and then the base structure with the now set oyster spat can be placed at a selected location for the prevention of soil erosion. 
         [0022]    In various embodiments the base structure with previously set oyster spat, after being placed at the selected location, is allowed to have the oyster spat grow and reproduce naturally increasing the structural strength of the entire structure. 
         [0023]    In various embodiments the base structure forming a blanket or mat can comprise a plurality of interconnected blocks which can articulate relative to each other, and wherein the blocks can comprise concrete. In various embodiments the base structure can comprise an articulating blanket or mat of a plurality of interconnected blocks held together by a cabling system. 
         [0024]    In various embodiments the plurality of blocks can include front and rear sides with the front side having a recessed face and the rear side being substantially flat or planar. In various embodiments the recessed face provides a protected volume and area for oyster spat to set. 
         [0025]    In other embodiments the recessed face provides protection to the oyster spat setting in the recessed area, such as where multiple mats or blankets are stacked on top of each other, 
         [0026]    In various embodiments oyster shell can be incorporated into the base structure. In various embodiments ground up oyster shell can be incorporated into aggregate of concrete blocks forming the base structure. In various embodiments fossilized oyster shells can be incorporated into the base structure. In various embodiments the amount of broken, ground or crushed oyster shell can be at least 25 percent by weight of the total weight of the concrete before water is added. In various embodiments the amount of broken, ground or crushed oyster shell can be at least 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, and 50 percent by weight of the total weight of the concrete before water is added. In various embodiments the amount of broken, ground or crushed oyster shell can fall within a range of between any two of the above referenced percent by weight figures before water is added. 
         [0027]    In various embodiments the oyster shells as aggregate in concrete can be screened to have an average size of 89, which refers to eights and nines for screening. In various embodiments the oyster shell used can be a mixture of ground or crushed oyster shell: (a) falling through a ¼ inch screen but stopped by a ⅛ inch screen and (b) falling through the ⅛ inch screen. In various embodiments the added broken, ground or crushed oyster shell mixture is equal in percent by weight of parts (a) and (b) broken, ground or crushed oyster shell. In various embodiments part (a) can fall within a range of between any two of the following percent by weight the added broken, ground or crushed oyster shell: 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, and 75 percent by weight. 
         [0028]    In various embodiments part (b) can fall within a range of between any two of the following percent by weight the added broken, ground or crushed oyster shell: 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, and 75 percent by weight. In various embodiments parts (a) and (b) percent by weight add up to be 100 percent added broken, ground or crushed oyster shell. 
         [0029]    In various embodiments the base structure comprising a plurality of articulating blocks can be sized to a predesignated height and width. In one embodiment the base structure comprising a plurality of articulating blocks can be 28 feet by 8 feet, and have a depth or thickness of 4 inches. It should be noted that the depth or thickness is determined based on the environmental factors seen by the base structure of plurality of articulating blocks. For example, it should be noted that where the base structure is expected to see relatively high water energy and wave action, the thickness or depth of the base structure can be increased to accommodate said increased water energy and wave action. In various embodiments the depth of the blocks can be between 4 and 9 inches. 
         [0030]    In various embodiments, after manufacturing a plurality of mats or blankets, the mats or blankets can be transported to a predesignated loading area, and then loaded into one or more mobile remote setting facilities. In one embodiment the predesignated loading area can be a dock. In various embodiments the mats or blankets can be transported by truck, rail, or barge. In various embodiments a crane can be used to load the plurality of mats or blankets into the selected one or more mobile remote setting facilities. 
         [0031]    In various embodiments the method of the present invention can include the following steps: 
         [0032]    (a) providing a crushed oyster shell aggregate. In various embodiments the oyster shell aggregate can be comprised of fossilized oyster shell; and 
         [0033]    (b) incorporating the oyster shell as aggregate in an articulating base structure formed from a plurality of interconnected blocks. 
         [0034]    In various embodiments the method of the present invention can include the following steps: 
         [0035]    (a) providing a plurality of articulating base structure mats or blankets, each mat or blanket comprising a plurality of interconnected blocks wherein the blocks are comprised of concrete having oyster shell as aggregate; 
         [0036]    (b) providing a mobile remote setting system having an interior, and at a first location placing the plurality of articulating base structure mats or blankets in the interior of the mobile remote setting system; 
         [0037]    (c) moving the mobile remote setting system from the first location to a second location; 
         [0038]    (d) at a second location placing oyster larvae in the interior of the mobile remote setting system and allowing the oyster larvae to set on the plurality of articulating base structure mats or blankets for a predefined period of time for setting; and 
         [0039]    (e) wherein after step “d” the plurality of articulating base structure mats or blankets can be removed from the interior of the mobile remote setting system and placed at a selected erosion prevention location. 
         [0040]    In various embodiments during step “d” the plurality of mats are removed from the mobile remote setting system and placed at a selected location. 
         [0041]    In various embodiments step “c” occurs after step “b” and the second location is remote from the first location. 
         [0042]    In various embodiments step “d” occurs adjacent second location of step “c”. 
         [0043]    In various embodiments during step “b” the plurality of mats are vertically hung in the remote setting system. In various embodiments each of the plurality of mats are supported by a header or spreader bar for hanging in the mobile remote setting system. In various embodiments the header can include side movement limiters (e.g., an angle or other bracket) along with manual or quick release latches that will allow each of the plurality of mats or blankets to be attached and then detached from its respective header or spreader bar for hanging. 
         [0044]    In various embodiments during step “b” each of the plurality of mats have a upper face and lower face and the mats are hung in paired sets with each lower face of the paired mats pointing towards each other. 
         [0045]    In various embodiments the mobile remote setting system comprises an air sparging system. In various embodiments the air sparging system includes an air compressor fluidly connected to a plurality of sparging pipes, each of the sparging pipes including a plurality of sparging openings. 
         [0046]    In various embodiments during step “b” each of the plurality of mats has a upper face and lower face and the plurality of mats are hung in paired sets with each lower face of the paired mats pointing towards each other and each upper face pointing away from each other. 
         [0047]    In various embodiments the mobile remote setting system includes a setting interior which setting interior includes a plurality of walls and a floor. In various embodiments the sparging pipes of the air sparging system can be located next to the floor. 
         [0048]    In various embodiments before step “c” at least part of the interior of the mobile remote setting system has placed thereon a non-stick material. In various embodiments the non-stick material can be paraffin or wax. In various embodiments the non-stick material can be sprayed onto the interior. 
         [0049]    In various embodiments before step “c” at least part of the lower surfaces of each of the plurality of mats has placed thereon a non-stick material. In various embodiments the non-stick material can be paraffin or wax. In various embodiments the non-stick material can be sprayed onto the lower surfaces of each of the plurality of mats. 
         [0050]    In various embodiments before step “c” filling the interior of the mobile remote setting facility with water sufficient to cover the top of the plurality of mats and sparging the water for a predetermined period of time and then removing substantially all of the water from the interior of the mobile remote setting facility. 
         [0051]    In various embodiments during step “c” filling the interior of the mobile remote setting facility with water sufficient to cover the top of the plurality of mats and sparging the water for a predetermined period of time and then removing substantially all of the water from the interior of the mobile remote setting facility. Sparging is done in the interior to dynamically move the oyster larvae around the interior and facilitate an even set density of spat on the plurality mats or blankets. As the sparging moves the oyster larvae around the interior, they “feel” the concrete of the plurality of mats or blankets with their foot and set in place on the concrete. Without sparging moving the water column, once introduced, the larvae would tend to fall to the bottom and sets in a clump at the bottom. In various embodiments the predefined period of time ranges between 48 to 96 hours, or between 72 to 96 hours. During this sparging time period, concentrated algae can be introduced into the water in the interior to feed the larvae during setting process. 
         [0052]    In various embodiments between step “c” and removal of the plurality of mats or blankets from the remote setting facility, the additional step of adding feed to the interior of the remote setting facility in a sufficient amount to facilitate rapid growth of the larvae after setting. Because oysters are filter feeders, water with feed flowing through the hung blankets or mats (open faced) will allow the oysters to feed naturally. In various embodiments this feeding period lasts for at least 7 days after step “c”. Now that the oysters are set, they must be fed to ensure that they survive and continue to grow. Each day that they are allowed to grow in the protected environment of the interior of the mobile remote setting facility makes them that much safer from predators upon placement. In various embodiments during the feeding period water with feed for the oyster larvae is pumped into the interior of the mobile remote setting facility, while at the same time water is pumped out of the interior of the mobile remote setting facility to substantially maintain a relatively constant water level in the interior. In one embodiment a first pump with outlet is located at one end of the interior while a second pump with inlet is located at a spaced apart end of the interior. The first pump can pump water into the interior from a predetermined water source such as the location where the mobile remote setting facility is located during step “c” (e.g., a body of water such as a pond, lake, bay, ocean, and/or river). Alternatively a public water source can be used. The second pump can discharge into the same water source. The pumping of water into and out of the interior creates a flow process, allowing the water to bring natural feed in the form of algae to the oysters. Because oysters are filter feeders, the water with feed flowing through the interior and in between the sets of plurality of mats allows the oyster larvae to feed naturally. After a predetermined period of time (e.g., one week) the feeding flow is stopped and the plurality of mats with set oyster spat are ready to be removed from the interior of the mobile remote setting facility. 
         [0053]    In various embodiments between the time the feeding flow is stopped and the plurality of mats are removed, substantially all of the water in the interior of the mobile remote setting facility is emptied and, for a predefined period of time, the plurality of mats remain hanging in the interior of the mobile remote setting facility. In various embodiments the predefined period of time is between about 1 and 14 days, more preferably between 2 and 7 days. In various embodiments during this predefined period of time a sprinkler system can be used to maintain a predesignated moisture content on the now set oyster spat on the plurality of mats. 
         [0054]    In various embodiments after step “c” the plurality of mats are removed from the interior of the mobile remote setting facility. In various embodiments a crane with rigging can be used to remove the plurality of mats. 
         [0055]    In various embodiments, where water depth at the project site allows navigation of the water based mobile setting facility, the mobile setting facility can be moved via water and into place immediately adjacent the selected location for ultimate placement of the plurality of mats. Alternatively, in various embodiments, where the water depth is too shallow to allow for navigation of the water based mobile setting facility, the mobile setting facility can be moved substantially as far as navigable water permits and then the plurality of mats removed from the mobile setting facility and loaded onto a vessel which can continue to navigate in the water such as a deck barge. In the instance of a deck barge the plurality of mats can be lifted by a crane barge onto the deck of the work barge. 
         [0056]    In various embodiments, after being removed from the mobile remote setting facility, the lower surface of at least one of the plurality of mats is placed on top of at least one of the other of the plurality of mats. 
         [0057]    In various embodiments a protective covering is placed over substantially all of the top surface of each of the plurality of mats. In one embodiment the protective covering can be a biodegradable predator net. 
         [0058]    In various embodiments after step “c” the plurality of mats are placed in a selected location to prevent erosion. In various embodiments the selected location is the sidewall of a waterway. In various embodiments the selected location is substantially underwater. 
         [0059]    In various embodiments a plurality of water based mobile setting facilities can be used such as for large scale erosion control projects. In these embodiments, after a first water based mobile setting facility is emptied of blankets being substantially covered with set oyster spat, it can be sent to a predesignated loading facility where the first mobile setting facility is filled again with new plurality of mats which will require being set with oyster spat. During the time period that the first water based mobile setting facility is being sent back to a predesignated loading area for refilling, being refilled, and then returning to the predesignated location for remote setting, a second water based mobile setting facility can be engaged in the process of remote setting oyster spat on a plurality of mats hung in the interior of the second water based mobile setting facility using one or more embodiments disclosed herein. 
         [0060]    In various embodiments after placement of the processed plurality of mats or blankets at the predesignated erosion control location, the oysters on these plurality of mats or blankets will continue to grow together to form a “living blanket” which over time will combine into a solid reef of oysters. 
         [0061]    In one embodiment, where there is death or inadequate growth of oysters after placement on the plurality of mats or blankets, the areas of death or inadequate growth can be reseeded with oyster spat for setting and growth. In this embodiment pieces of oyster shell (fossilized or freshly harvested) can be arranged in large baskets. Oyster spat can be seeded onto these shells using a remote setting process as described above. After a good set is complete, the shells with now set oyster larvae (i.e., oyster spat) can be blown overboard by barges. It is expected that the individual pieces of oyster shell would fall from the surface to the previously placed plurality of mats or blankets, and then settle into recessed areas and/or openings in the plurality of mats or blankets. This “reseeding” introduces a new set of live oyster spat onto the plurality of mats or blankets and wherein this new live oyster spat can continue to grow on the already placed plurality of mats. 
         [0062]    In various embodiments is provided a method for preventing erosion comprising: 
         [0063]    (a) providing crushed oyster shell aggregate; and 
         [0064]    (b) incorporating the oyster shell as aggregate in an articulating base structure formed from a plurality of interconnected blocks, each of the blocks having top and bottom portions wherein the top portion includes a recessed interior. 
         [0065]    In various embodiments during step “a” the oyster shell aggregate is comprised of fossilized oyster shell. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0066]    For a further understanding of the nature, objects, and advantages of the present invention, reference should be had to the following detailed description, read in conjunction with the following drawings, wherein like reference numerals denote like elements and wherein: 
           [0067]      FIG. 1  is an elevational view of a cross section of waterway where the method and apparatus can be employed to prevent erosion due to wave action generated by boats and/or storms. 
           [0068]      FIG. 2  is an elevational view of the cross section of waterway of  FIG. 1  where wave action has eroded portions of the bank. 
           [0069]      FIG. 3  is an enlarged view of one of the eroded banks of the waterway of  FIG. 2 . 
           [0070]      FIG. 4  is a perspective view of partial section of waterway, showing four contiguous sections (blankets) of one embodiment of the method and apparatus invention laid in place, extending from bank (where it is held in place via pilings) down the side wall of waterway, to protect against erosion. 
           [0071]      FIG. 5  is a perspective view of partial section of waterway, showing four contiguous sections (blankets) of an embodiment of the invention laid in place, extending from bank (where it is held in place via pilings) down the side wall of waterway, to protect against erosion. 
           [0072]      FIG. 6  is an elevational view of cross section of waterway with an embodiment from  FIG. 4, 5 , or  6  of the method and apparatus shown in place on left side to protect against the erosion. 
           [0073]      FIG. 7  is a sectional perspective view of taken along the lines  7 - 7  in  FIG. 4  and generally represents any of the embodiments from  FIG. 4, 5 , or  6  of the method and apparatus showing cultch placed inside pockets serve as points of attachment for baby mollusk (or oyster larvae or “spat”) to adhere to and grow on which cultch may include shells, limestone, artificial substrate, crushed concrete, calcium-coated rebar, etc. 
           [0074]      FIG. 8  is a concrete encased rod which can be used in various of the method and apparatus. 
           [0075]      FIG. 9  is a perspective view of perspective view of any of the embodiments from  FIG. 4, 5 , or  6  of the method and apparatus showing a partial blanket wherein the cultch retained in the pillow pockets is in the form of concrete encased rods. 
           [0076]      FIG. 10  is a perspective view of perspective of lower portion of blanket of an alternative embodiment of the method and apparatus especially useful for soft sidewalls and water bottoms, wherein a plurality of containers or cups are used instead of pillow pockets especially soft sidewalls and water bottoms. 
           [0077]      FIG. 11  is a top view of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 10  with a netting placed over the plurality of concave containers. 
           [0078]      FIG. 12  is a side view of the embodiment of  FIG. 11 . 
           [0079]      FIG. 13  is a side view of the embodiment of  FIG. 11  showing the connecting means for the plurality of concave containers. 
           [0080]      FIG. 14  is a perspective view of an alternative concave container which has a base that can be substantially planer or flat. 
           [0081]      FIG. 15  is one embodiment of a remote setting land-based mobile sparging system showing blankets from one or more of the embodiments of  FIG. 4, 5 , or  6  of the method and apparatus. 
           [0082]      FIG. 16  is one embodiment of a remote setting water-based mobile sparging system showing blankets from one or more of the embodiments of  FIG. 4, 5 , or  6  of the method and apparatus. 
           [0083]      FIG. 17  is a perspective view of one embodiment of a block which can be used in fabricating a flexible concrete blanket. 
           [0084]      FIG. 18  is a section view of the concrete block of  FIG. 17  taken along the lines  18 - 18 . 
           [0085]      FIG. 19  is a section view of the concrete block of  FIG. 17  taken along the lines  19 - 19 . 
           [0086]      FIG. 20  is a perspective view of the block of  FIG. 17  being placed on top of a lower block, the lower block having oyster spat. 
           [0087]      FIG. 21  is a front view of a flexible blanket fabricated out of blocks similar to  FIG. 17 . 
           [0088]      FIG. 22  is a rear view of a flexible blanket of  FIG. 21 . 
           [0089]      FIG. 23  is one embodiment of a remote setting water-based mobile sparging system. 
           [0090]      FIG. 24  is a schematic diagram of the sparging system. 
           [0091]      FIG. 25  is an enlarged view of a section of one of the sparging pipes. 
           [0092]      FIG. 26  is a perspective view of the interior of the barge schematically indicating that the walls and floor are sprayed with a non-stick surface such as paraffin. 
           [0093]      FIG. 27  is a sectional view of the remote setting water based mobile sparging system of  FIG. 23  showing sparging occurring in the empty barge. 
           [0094]      FIG. 28  is a perspective view showing the flexible blanket of  FIG. 21  being lowered into the barge of  FIGS. 15 and 23 . 
           [0095]      FIG. 29  is a perspective view schematically showing shipping/moving the water based mobile sparging system of  FIGS. 15 and 23  containing a plurality of flexible blankets of  FIG. 21 . 
           [0096]      FIG. 30  is a perspective view schematically the water based mobile sparging system of  FIGS. 15 and 23  now set in place and ready to engage in the process of remotely setting oyster spat. 
           [0097]      FIG. 31  is a sectional view of the remote setting water based mobile sparging system of  FIGS. 15 and 23  showing sparging occurring with the barge filled with a plurality of blankets of  FIG. 21 . 
           [0098]      FIG. 32  is a perspective view of the water based mobile sparging system of  FIGS. 15 and 23  with a sprinkler system to keep wet remotely set blankets after water had been drained from the barge. 
           [0099]      FIG. 33  is a top view of a remote setting land-based mobile sparging system. 
           [0100]      FIG. 34  is a perspective view of the land-based mobile sparging system showing blankets a flexible blanket of  FIG. 21  being lowered into the truck. 
           [0101]      FIG. 35  is a side view of the land based mobile sparging system of  FIG. 33  showing sparging occurring with the system filled with a plurality of blankets of  FIG. 21   
           [0102]      FIG. 36  is a perspective view of the showing a first flexible blanket of  FIG. 21  being lowered a second flexible blanket of  FIG. 22 . 
           [0103]      FIG. 37  is a perspective view schematically showing the placement of multiple flexible blankets of  FIG. 21  only a bank to prevent erosion. 
           [0104]      FIGS. 38 and 39  schematically show connecting the multiple blankets to each other. 
           [0105]      FIG. 40  is a side view of a previously placed mat or blanket where a portion of the spat died causing a blighted area. 
           [0106]      FIG. 41  is a side view of one method of reseeding a portion of an already laid blanket including a protective curtain perimeter. 
           [0107]      FIG. 42  is a top view of the protective curtain of  FIG. 41 . 
           [0108]      FIG. 43  is a side schematic view of the curtain of  FIG. 41  schematically showing oyster larvae being dropped in the protected area of the curtain. 
           [0109]      FIG. 44  is a side schematic view of the blanket after the reseeded larvae have formed spat on the blighted area. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0110]    Detailed descriptions of one or more preferred embodiments are provided herein. It is to be understood, however, that the present invention may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but rather as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to employ the present invention in any appropriate system, structure or manner. 
         [0111]      FIG. 1  shows a typical cross section of a typical waterway  100  (e.g., a river or canal), having a bottom (bed)  1220 , sidewalls  1210 ,  1310  and banks  1200 ,  1300 . As shown in  FIGS. 2 and 3 , the sidewalls of the waterway which are most susceptible to erosion are those portions (at risk portions  1230 ) which are washed up and down and back and forth by wave action of the type that is typically induced by marine vessels  1500  traversing the waterway and/or by wind-induced waves of the type which accompany storms and other inclement weather.  FIG. 1  also shows waves  1400 ,  1450 , average elevation of water  1404 , wave crests  1410 ,  1460 , wave troughs  1420 ,  1470 , and average mean elevation  1480 . As best shown in  FIGS. 3 and 4 , such sidewall erosion  1212  means there is less support for the bank and remaining sidewall located above the eroded portion, eventually causing it to collapse or slough off (e.g., see  1216  in  FIG. 3 ). Waterways that are eroded in this fashion becomes wider and wider, the consequences of which are often harmful. For example, in coastal regions the widening of waterways can lead to ever increasing saltwater intrusion, which leads to the death of fresh water vegetation such as trees (e.g., live oak and cypress). 
         [0112]      FIGS. 4 and 5  show a perspective views of four contiguous sections or “blankets”  2000  of which lay in place along one side of a section of a waterway  1000 . Waterway  1000  has water bottom  1220 , side walls  1210 ,  1310  and banks at  1200 ,  1300 . To simplify the illustration,  FIGS. 4 and 5  depict blankets  2000  in place on only one side or bank  1200  of the waterway  1000 . In actual use on a waterway  1000 , additional blankets are also preferably placed along the other side or bank  1300  of the waterway  1000 , so that both sides or banks of the waterway  1000  may be similarly blanketed to protect against erosion. 
         [0113]    As shown in  FIG. 4 , each blanket  2000  may include an upper portion  2050  situated along the sidewall  1210  and bank or side  1200  above the average mean elevation  1404  of the water surface, and a lower portion  2100  situated along the sidewall  1210  of the waterway  1000  below the average mean elevation  1404  of the water surface. As also shown in  FIG. 4 , the blankets  2000  are sufficiently flexible so as to generally conform to the contours of the banks  1200 , sidewalls  1210  and water bottom  1220  over which the blankets  2000  are laid. 
         [0114]    The upper  2050  and lower  2100  portions of the blankets  2000  are preferably constructed of pliable netting  2054  material comprised of durable strands  2052  of line or wire, as for example stainless steel, galvanized metal, pvc-coated wires, monofilament and/or polypropylene line, preferably arranged in a mesh as best shown in  FIG. 7 . Biodegradable materials such as hemp rope may also be used as netting material, particularly in the lower portion  2100  of the mat or blanket  2000  under those circumstances where environmental or other applicable regulations may require biodegradable components below the water surface. 
         [0115]    The lower portion  2100  of the mat or blanket  2000  preferably includes a first plurality of pockets or “pillows”  2200  which provide pockets  2250  for holding cultch  2300  therein, as shown in  FIGS. 4, 5, and 7 . The netting mesh forming the pillows  2200  is configured and sized so as to retain the cultch  2300  within the pockets  2250  of the pillows  2200 , as shown in  FIG. 7 . The cultch  2300  is preferably seeded with larvae of mollusks such as oysters, which as baby mollusks (“spat”) adhere to and grow on the cultch  2300 . As the spat grow, they develop hard outer shells which provide an armor of protection against erosion of the sidewalls and banks of the waterway  1000  on which the lower portion  2100  of the blanket  2000  lies. 
         [0116]    The netting mesh  2050  or other material forming the upper portion of the blanket  2000  as depicted in  FIGS. 4,5, and 7  is preferably seeded with grass  1202  and/or other forms of vegetation which, when rooted and grown, serve to consolidate, stabilize and protect against erosion of the sidewalls  1210 , 1310  and banks  1200 , 1300  of the waterway  1000  on which the upper portion  2050  of the mat or blanket  2000  lays. Said seeding of the upper portion  2050  of the mat or blanket  2000  may be accomplished via spraying or other application of seeds which are mixed together with a paste or slurry that adheres to the netting mesh  2054  or other material forming the upper portion of the mat or blanket  2000 . Alternatively, if desired, the upper portion  2050  of the mat or blanket  2000  may be similar to the lower portion  2100  in that said upper portion  2050  may include cultch  2300 , held in the pockets of pillows  2200 , which may or may not be seeded with mollusk larvae. Such an alternative embodiment of the invention may be particularly useful in an environment where the wave wash is anticipated to include a range which extends from the bottom of the water body to the top of the surrounding shoreline and/or banks. 
         [0117]    The number of pillows in the lower portion  2100  of the blanket  2000  may vary as desired in accordance with circumstances and conditions. For example, if circumstances are such that sidewall erosion is expected to be limited to that portion of the sidewall located between the average mean elevation of the waterway  1000  surface and the wave trough, then it may be desirable (e.g. to minimize costs) to limit the number of pillows in the lower portion  2100  of the blanket  2000  so as to provide sidewall  1210 , 1310  protection only between said average mean elevation  1404  and wave trough  1420 , as shown in  FIG. 6 . On the other hand, if prudence and/or other circumstances make it desirable to protect more of the sidewall  1210 , 1310 , then an additional second pocket of pillows  2500  containing cultch  2300 , limestone, stones, shells, crushed concrete (mass of ground up stones/shells and/or grit) can be optionally included as indicated in  FIG. 5 . If circumstances warrant, the pillows  2500  can be sized, configured and provided in such number as to provide protection along the entire cross section of the waterway  1000 , from one bank  1200  to the other  1300 , completely covering both sidewalls  1210 , 1310  and the bottom  1220 . 
         [0118]    In circumstances where it is desirable to protect against erosion of the sidewalls  1210 , 1310  and banks  1200 , 1300  located above the average mean elevation  1404  of the water surface, as shown in  FIGS. 2 and 3 , an alternative embodiment of the invention is provided as shown in  FIG. 5 . This alternative embodiment may be preferable in such conditions because it may be difficult if not impossible for mollusks to grow and survive above the average mean elevation  1404  of the water, where the mollusks would be exposed rather than submerged most of the time (except perhaps during wave wash and/or high tide). 
         [0119]    Accordingly, in the embodiment shown in  FIG. 5 , pillows  2500  may be provided above said average mean elevation  1404  which encase cultch  2300  and/or other material that is not seeded with mollusk larvae, as such larvae would not be likely to mature into shellfish at such location above the average mean elevation.  FIG. 5  depicts those pillows  2500  encasing unseeded cultch  2300 , located above the average mean elevation  1404  of the water surface and below the upper portion  2050  of the mat or blanket  2000 . Those pillows  2500  preferably encase old shells, limestone, pervious concrete, artificial substrate and/or other materials which, although not seeded with mollusk larvae, nevertheless provide a “breakwater” which protects against erosion due to wave wash that may occur above the average mean elevation of the water. 
         [0120]    The blankets shown in  FIGS. 4 and 5  may be held in place along the waterway  1000 &#39;s bank via piling  2400  which are driven into the bank  1200 . Extending between adjacent pilings  2400  is a header  2012 , said header  2012  providing for attachment of the mat or blanket  2000  thereto. Alternatively, instead of using pilings  2400 , the header  2012  may be affixed to the bank  1200  via the use of anchors. To further affix the mats or blankets  2000  to the bank  1200 , sprigs may be planted in the bank  1200  by inserting them through the netting mesh  2050  or other material forming the upper portion  2050  of the mat or blanket  2000 . 
         [0121]    The cultch  2300  may be comprised of various materials which provide a suitable substrate to which spat may attach and grow, such as the discarded shells of oysters and other mollusks which can be coated with a calcium carbonate solution to enhance attachment by the spat. The preferred substrate has a surface which is rough rather than smooth, as a rough-surface substrate typically provides for more and better points of attachment thereto by the spat, as compared to a smooth-surface substrate. 
         [0122]    Cultch  2300  may also be comprised of crushed concrete, as for example crushed concrete that was once part of roadways and bridges that have been dismantled. In this way, various embodiments further enhances the environment by providing a beneficial use for crushed concrete that might otherwise be an eyesore taking up valuable landfill space. Crushed concrete and/or mollusk shells used as cultch are generally more preferably than material such as limestone, because the surface of mollusk shells and crushed concrete is generally rougher than the surface of limestone. However, shells and/or crushed concrete may not be readily available in some geographical areas, in which case other material such as limestone may be used. 
         [0123]    The netting mesh forming the pocket pillows  2200  may be strengthened and reinforced by the use of reinforcing strands  2052  as depicted in  FIG. 7 . Said reinforcing strands  2052  may include those which are oriented longitudinally, as well as reinforcing strands which run at perpendicular or other angles to the longitudinal strands. 
         [0124]    It should be understood that  FIGS. 4 and 5  depict only four adjacent mat or blankets  2000  in place for purposes of illustration. In actual use, similar such mats or blankets  2000  can be placed adjacent to one another so as to provide a longitudinal blanket of protection running continuously along the desired length of the waterway  1000  to be protected. 
         [0125]    As an alternative to the use of shells, limestone or crushed concrete, as shown in  FIGS. 8 and 9  the cultch  2300  may be comprised in whole or in part of concrete encased rods  2350  or rods  2352  which have been covered with a substance  2356  which facilitates the attachment of mollusk larvae thereto. For example, metal rods  2352  of the type customarily used to reinforce concrete (“rebars”) may be encased in concrete and/or coated with a solution of calcium carbonate, which provides a rough and irregular surface which attracts mollusk larvae and serves as an efficient surface facilitating the setting of mollusk larvae thereon. Such concrete-encased and/or coated rods may be placed as cultch within the pillow pockets  2200  as shown in  FIG. 9 , instead of an/or in addition to crushed concrete, shells, limestone and the like. 
         [0126]    The lower portion of the mat or blanket  2000  can be designed and configured so that it does not float on the surface of the water but instead sinks into the water down to where it comes in contact with and lies on top of the sidewalls  1210 , 1310  and bottom  1220  of the shoreline and/or waterway  1000  which is to be protected. When properly configured and utilized, the lower portion  2100  of the mat or blanket  2000  is heavy enough to sink into the water, but not so heavy as to sink into and/or below the soil or other material comprising the sidewall  1210 , 1310  and bottom  1220  of the shoreline and/or waterway  1000 . 
         [0127]      FIGS. 10-14  depict an alternative embodiment of the lower portion of a blanket  2700  which is particularly suited for use along shorelines and waterway  1000 s which have especially soft sidewalls  1210 , 1310  and/or bottoms  1220  that are unable to fully support the weight of the blankets which lay thereon. Such conditions may result in sinkage of all or part of the lower portion of the blanket into the soft sidewalls  1210 , 1310  and/or bottom  1220 , which in turn may impede the ability of mollusk larvae and spat to adhere to and grow on the cultch contained in said lower portion of the blanket. Even if the sidewalls  1210 , 1310  and bottoms  1220  of the shoreline and/or waterway  1000  are firm enough to support the blanket when initially laid down, the growth and reproduction of mollusk attached to the blanket will increase its weight, such that over time it may eventually sink into and/or below said sidewalls and bottoms, and thereby become a less effective means for protecting against erosion. 
         [0128]    As applied to such soft soil conditions, the alternative embodiment of  FIGS. 10-14  provides for a lower portion of the blanket having cultch comprised of bowl-shaped containers  2750  which are preferably held within the pockets of the pillows, as shown in  FIGS. 11-13 . The bottom outer surface of such bowl-shaped containers  2750  is configured to provide a footprint which spreads over an area which is large enough to resist and prevent sinkage therein. The bowl-shaped containers  2750  are preferably hollow and have an open top which provides access to the interior surface  2910  of the container  2750 , thereby facilitating the seeding and growth of mollusk larvae and spat within the inner portion  2910  of the container  2750 . 
         [0129]    A multitude of containers  2750  may be connected together and arranged in a pattern such as that shown in  FIGS. 10 and 11 , thereby creating a blanket of such containers  2750  which can be laid over the portion of the bank  1200 , 1300 , sidewalls  1210 , 1310 , bottoms  1220  and/or shoreline to be protected from erosion. The containers  2750  may be of any configuration which provides a footprint that is suitably shaped and sized so as to prevent sinkage into the water bottom  1120  and sidewalls  1210 , 1310  on which it rests.  FIG. 14  shows an alternative embodiment of a container  2901  having an enhanced footprint or base  2950  with planar bottom  2955 . To facilitate the adherence of spat to the containers  2750 , the inner top surface  2910  of said containers  2750  may be covered with a calcium-laced membrane or other substrate which oysters adherence and growth by spat. Containers  2900 ,  2901  can be connected together with cables or ropes  2790  and knotted together at  2792  as seen in  FIG. 14 . 
       Remote Setting 
       [0130]    To facilitate, encourage and expedite the setting and early growth of spat, the blankets  2000  may be temporarily situated in an incubating environment prior to being permanently deployed along the bank  1200 , 1300  or shoreline to be protected. The purpose of such incubation is to provide an especially wholesome and friendly environment for the spat, thereby minimizing their exposure to predatory fish and other marine-related risks that might otherwise harm them when they are most vulnerable. 
         [0131]    For example, the blankets  2000  may be incubated in a hopper barge  4000 . Barge  4000  can be moored in place as shown in  FIG. 15 . Barge  4000  can include an interior section  4100  that can hold water. The water being held within the interior section  4100  of the barge  4000  is preferably water which has been pumped in from the waterway  1000 , lake or other water body where the blankets  2000  are to be deployed. Blanket headers  2030 ,  2031  preferably span the interior section  4100  of the hopper barge  4000 , allowing the blanket  2000  to hang there such that the lower portion  2200  of each blanket  2000  can extend down into the water being held within the interior section  4100  of the barge  4000 . This allows the larvae which have been seeded on the cultch  2300  in the lower portion  4100  of the blanket  2000  to grow in the relatively safe environment of the water being held within the interior section  4100  of the hopper barge  4000 . Alternatively, the interior section  4100  of the hopper barge  4000  may be totally open to the body of water in which it is situated, and the bottom of said interior section  4100  of the barge  4000  may be outfitted with a screen having mesh sized sufficiently to keep out fish and other marine life most likely to prey on or otherwise endanger the spat as it grows on the lower portion  2200  of the blanket  2000 . If desired, the barge  4000  with the hanging multiple blankets  2000 ,  2001 , etc. may be temporarily sunk for purposes of incubation, then refloated afterwards. 
         [0132]    In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the blankets  2000 ,  2001  are kept in an incubating environment as described above from between 6 to 60 days, during which time the spat not only gain a better foothold on the cultch but also grow larger and sturdier so as to be less vulnerable to predatory and other risks of the marine environment. For oysters, the incubation period may range from 6 to 60 days, with the most preferable period being about 30 days. 
         [0133]    After the period of incubation, the hopper barge  4000  may be released from its moorings and moved to a desirable location near the shoreline  1200 , 1300  or bank where the blankets  2000  are to be deployed. Each blanket  2000  may then be lifted out of the hopper barge  4000  by a crane or other lifting means and laid down over the bottom  1220 , sidewalls  1210 , 1310  and/or banks  1200 , 1300  and shorelines to be protected, as shown for example in  FIG. 6 . 
         [0134]    Alternatively, the blankets  2000  may be incubated in a container  5010  (see  FIG. 16 ) which can be transported via a trailer  5000 , train or other means of transportation, as for example “frac tanks” typically used in the oil and gas industry, and/or standard-sized containers (“ISO” containers) customarily used in intermodal shipping, as shown with a removable top in  FIG. 16 . The water being held within container or body  5010  is preferably water that has been pumped in from the waterway  1000 , lake or other water body where the blankets are to be deployed. 
         [0135]    The blankets  2000  may be hung from one side to the other side of the barge  4000  or container  5010 , as depicted in  FIGS. 15 and 16 . Alternatively, if desired, blankets  2000  may be hung from front to back of the barge  4000  or container  5010 , thereby accommodating the use of more extended blankets  2000 . 
         [0136]    The method and apparatus is not limited to the use and growth of oyster larvae in and on the blankets  2000 . Other mollusks may also be used, including mussels, depending upon the marine environment and other circumstances applicable to the particular shoreline or waterway  1000  which is to be armored by the blankets of the invention. For mussels, the incubation period referenced above may range from 6 to 60 days, with the most preferable period being about 30 days. 
         [0137]    As indicated above, one embodiments provides for the stabilization and prevention of erosion of shorelines and banks of open bodies of water (such as lakes and bays) as well as channeled bodies of water (such as rivers, canals and bayous.) In addition to preventing erosion, the invention also provides a further benefit which is that of water clarification/purification. More specifically, it is well known that oysters, mussels and other mollusks are efficient at taking in, processing and then expelling the water in which they grow, such that the water expelled is cleaner and clearer than the water taken in. 
         [0138]    Accordingly, various embodiments have utility for the purpose of cleaning and clarifying water which has been environmentally compromised, as e.g. water which has been contaminated with bacteria, toxins and/or other pollutants. When used for this purpose, the invention may preferably be seeded with mussels in addition and/or as an alternative to oysters, because mussels are more efficient than oysters in terms of clarifying, filtering and cleaning up the water in which they grow. 
         [0139]    In addition or as an alternative to the above-mentioned benefits, various embodiments may also be used to facilitate the growth of oysters and other shellfish for human consumption. For example, blankets containing cultch seeded with oyster larvae may be rolled out over or otherwise laid on top of water bottoms which are located in areas and habitats which are suitable for oyster growth, reproduction and harvesting. 
         [0140]    Various embodiments may also be used to facilitate the growth of underwater grass and/or other vegetation, as for example in storm-ravaged areas where intense wave wash has uprooted underwater plant life which is important to the habitat. In such situations, blankets  2000  seeded with underwater grass/plants may be rolled out over or otherwise laid on top of water bottoms which are located in areas and habitats which are suitable for underwater vegetation. 
         [0141]    In general, the use and implementation of various embodiments helps to create a living shoreline of stabilized soil which resists erosion, promotes a cleaner marine environment benefitting all of the surrounding animal and plant life, and/or facilitates the growth of shellfish for human consumption. 
         [0142]      FIGS. 17 through 39  provide an alternative embodiments of the method and apparatus of the present invention. 
         [0143]      FIG. 17  is a perspective view of one embodiment of a block  200  which can be used in fabricating a flexible concrete blanket  6000 .  FIG. 18  is a section view of the concrete block  200  taken along the lines  18 - 18 .  FIG. 19  is a section view of the concrete block  200  taken along the lines  19 - 19 . 
         [0144]    Block  200  has height  210  from lower base or bottom  500  to upper perimeter edge  300 . On the top of block  200  can be recessed area  400  which has a depth  420  from lower vertical second tier surface  410  to upper perimeter edge  300 . Lower base  500  can be substantially planer. 
         [0145]    Vertical recesses  260  and  262  can be provided on the upper and lower sides of block  200 . A plurality of u-shaped vertical channels  270  can be provided on the right hand side and u-shaped vertical channels  272  can be provided on the left hand side of block  200 . 
         [0146]    A plurality of vertical openings  280  can be included running from lower base  500  to lower top surface  410 . As shown in  FIG. 18  plurality of vertical openings  280  can be tapered from lower top surface  410  to lower base  500 . 
         [0147]    A plurality of tunnels  250  can be provided in each block  200  to allow a plurality of these blocks  200  to be interconnected by a plurality of connecting wires  6600  as shown in  FIGS. 21 and 22 . 
         [0148]    Each block can be concrete or steel reinforced concrete. During the process of forming the concrete blocks  200  that make up the mat or blanket  6000 , the oyster shells can be added to as aggregate to the mixture of concrete. In various embodiments the oyster shells can be crushed, ground, or broken. In various embodiments the oyster shells can be fossilized shells. In various embodiments the amount of oyster shells as aggregate can be at least 5 percent by weight of the final cured concrete for blocks  200 . In various embodiments the amount of oyster shells as aggregate can be at least 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, and 75 percent by weight of the final cured concrete for blocks  200 . In various embodiments the amount of oyster shells as aggregate can fall within a range of between any two of the above referenced percentages by weight of the final cured concrete blocks  200 . 
         [0149]    Recessed area  400  on each block  200  can be provided to protect oyster larvae which has been set on the block  200  from future damage or death. Recessed area  400  can have a depth  420  from lower top surface  410  to upper perimeter edge  300 . In various embodiments depth  420  can be at least 5 percent of the height  210  of block  200 . In various embodiments depth  420  can be at least 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 25, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, 44, 46, 48, and 50 percent of height  210  of block  200 . In various embodiments the depth  420  can fall within a range of between any two of the above referenced percentages of the height  210  of block  200 . 
         [0150]      FIG. 20  is a perspective view of the block  200  being placed on top of a lower block  201 , the lower block having now set oyster spat. It can be seen that the bottom surface  500  of upper block  200  will rest on upper surface  300  of bottom block  201 . Any oyster spat located on upper surface  300  can be damaged by the weight of upper block  200 . However, any located in recessed area  400  will not be damaged. Similarly,  FIG. 36  is a perspective view of the showing a second flexible blanket  6001  (comprised of a plurality of blocks  200 ) being lowered onto a first flexible blanket  6000  (also comprised of a plurality of blocks). Any oyster spat located in the recessed areas  400  of the individual blocks  200  of first flexible blanket  600  will not be damaged. 
         [0151]      FIG. 21  is a front view of a flexible blanket  6000  fabricated out of blocks  200 .  FIG. 22  is a rear view of a flexible blanket  6000 . When blocks  200  are placed side by side in both horizontal and vertical directions, a blanket or mat  6000  can be formed which includes a plurality of interconnected blocks  6100  as shown in  FIGS. 21 and 22 . The flexible blanket  6000  shown in  FIGS. 21 and 22  includes staggered rows (e.g.,  6200 ,  6204 , and  6208 ) of plurality of blocks, similar to staggered bricks. 
         [0152]    As shown in  FIGS. 21 and 22 , a plurality of interconnecting wires  6600  can be threaded through respective tunnels  250  of particular blocks  200  thereby interconnecting the plurality of blocks  6100 . Plurality of support loops  6700  can be used to structural connect adjacent interconnecting wires  6600 . At the left  650  and right  654  perimeter sides of mat or blanket  6000  in alternating rows half blocks  600  can be provided to make up the gaps made by the alternating staggered rows. Half blocks  600  can be constructed the same as blocks  200  but cut along lines  19 - 19  as shown in  FIGS. 17 and 19 . 
       Remote Setting of Flexible Blankets 
       [0153]    To facilitate, encourage and expedite the setting and early growth of spat, the blankets  6000  may be temporarily situated in an incubating environment prior to being permanently deployed along the bank  1200 , 1300  or shoreline to be protected. The purpose of such incubation is to provide an especially wholesome and friendly environment for the spat, thereby minimizing their exposure to predatory fish and other marine-related risks that might otherwise harm them when they are most vulnerable. 
         [0154]    For example, the flexible blankets  6000 ,  6001  may be incubated in a remote setting water based mobile sparging system  4000  of  FIGS. 23 through 27  (e.g., a hopper barge with sparging system  4700 ) which includes an interior section  4100  that can hold water. The water being held within the interior section  4100  of the barge  4000  is preferably water which has been pumped in from the waterway  1000 , lake or other water body where the blankets  2000  are to be deployed. 
         [0155]      FIG. 23  is one embodiment of a remote setting water-based mobile sparging system  4000 . Oyster larvae can&#39;t move on their own. Without moving the water column, the larvae would collect in one spot and we would not have an even disbursement of them across the whole barge. Sparging system  4700  roils/riles the water and causes movement, agitation, and/or flow in/of the water providing a means to move the larvae about the interior  4100  for even dispersion of the larvae. In various embodiments the amount of roiling/riling can be at least 10 percent of a full roiling/riling. In various embodiments the amount can be at least 10, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, and/or 100 percent of a full roiling/riling. In various embodiments the amount of roiling/riling can fall within a range of between any two of the above referenced percentages of full roiling/riling. 
         [0156]      FIG. 24  is a schematic diagram of the sparging system  4700 .  FIG. 25  is an enlarged view of a section of one of the sparging pipes  4718 . Piping  4718  is installed in four rows along the bottom floor  4110  of the barge  4000 . These pipes  4718  (which includes pipes  4712 ,  4714 ,  4716 , and  4718 ) are perforated so that air can escape. The pipes  4718  are connected to an air compressor  4702  on the deck of the barge  4000  that pushes the air through the pipes  4718 . Arrows  4713 ,  4715 ,  4717 , and  4719  schematically indicate that air is being pushed by compressor  4702  through pipes  4712 ,  4714 ,  4716 , and  4718 . This creates an aeration affect across the hopper barge and turns it into a giant setting tank. 
         [0157]      FIG. 27  is a sectional view of the remote setting water based mobile sparging system  4000  showing sparging occurring with water only in the interior  4100 . Compressor  4702  pumps air into main sparging air inlet  4750 , which air enters sparging pipes  4712 ,  4714 ,  4716 , and  4718  and leave said pipes and enter the water in interior  4100  as plurality of jets of air  4800  and then forming plurality of sparging bubbles  4810 . Plurality of jets of air  4800  and plurality of sparging bubbles  4810  will cause movement or roiling of water located in the interior  4100  of water based mobile sparging system  4000  where such movement can assist in the even distribution and setting of oyster spat placed in the water in the interior  4100 . 
         [0158]      FIG. 26  is a perspective view of the interior of the barge  4000  schematically indicating that the walls  4105  and floor  4110  are sprayed with a non-stick surface such as paraffin. The barge  4000  can be sprayed with paraffin wax on all sides and along the bottom. This spraying of wax, creates a slick surface that acts as a deterrent to oyster larvae setting along the walls of the hopper barge thereby reducing the amount of larvae that may set on the walls. Preferably, the wax is given at least 24 hours to dry before any water is introduced into the interior  4100 . 
       Sparging Time 
       [0159]    In a preferred embodiment, the flexible blankets  6000  are kept in an incubating environment as described above from between 6 to 60 days, during which time the spat not only gain a better foothold on the surface of the blankets but also grow larger and sturdier so as to be less vulnerable to predatory and other risks of the marine environment. For oysters, the incubation period may range from 6 to 60 days, with the most preferable period being about 30 days. 
         [0160]      FIG. 28  is a perspective view showing a flexible blanket  6000  being lowered into the barge  4000 . A crane uses rigging  6900  to move blankets  6000 . Each blanket  6900  can be supported by a support beam  6800  which has thereon a plurality of supporting straps  6850 . At opposed ends of beam  6800  can be lateral support  6810  which lateral supports can restrict the lateral movement of hanging beam  6800  to resist the beam  6800  from slipping off of perimeter edge  4104  of interior  4100 . 
         [0161]    When the blankets  6000  are hung in the hopper barge  4000 , the bottom of each blanket  6000  should be approximately 6 inches above the sparging pipes  4712 ,  4714 ,  4716 ,  4718  for the sparging system  4700 . In one embodiment barge  4000  can hold  104 , 4-inch blankets  6000 , which equates to  2916  linear feet or 25,000 square feet of concrete surface. 
         [0162]    In a preferred embodiments blankets  6000  are hung in opposing paired directions with their lower faces  6040 ,  6041  directed towards each other and preferably touching. Such configuration reduces the amount of space between the lower faces  6040 , 6040 ′ directed towards and thereby reduces the amount of oyster larvae that may set on the lower faces  6040 , 6040 ′ and increases the amount of oyster larvae that may set on the opposed upper faces  6030 , 6030 ′. 
         [0163]    In various embodiments the number of hanging blankets or mats  6000  can be at least 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 25, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, 44, 46, 48, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150. In various embodiments the number of blankets or mats  6000  can fall within a range of between any two of the above referenced minimum numbers. 
         [0164]    After the plurality of blankets  6000  are hung in interior  4100  of water based mobile sparging system  4000 , barge  4000  can be moved to the predesignated location for setting of the oyster larvae will occur. Once the barge  4000  is fully loaded with blankets  6000  it is pushed from the dock and placed in water with sufficient depth. The barge  4000  can be moved to the predetermined location, by spud poles, a tugboat, or a spud barge Preferably, this predesignated location will be adjacent the designated location for placement of the plurality of blankets  6000 .  FIG. 29  is a perspective view schematically showing shipping/moving the water based mobile sparging system  4000  (schematically indicated by the arrow) containing a plurality of flexible blankets  6000 . During transport or shipping preferably interior  4100  is not filled with water. 
         [0165]      FIG. 30  is a perspective view schematically showing water based mobile sparging system  4000  now set in place and ready to engage in the process of remotely setting oyster larvae. Prior to emplacement, water quality can be checked for salinity to ensure that historically the selected area for placement of the seeded flexible blankets  6000  is conducive to oyster growth. The area can be reconnoitered and water samples taken to assess salinity and water quality. 
       Sparging Process 
       [0166]    Once located at the selected sparging location, sparging operations can begin.  FIG. 31  is a sectional view of the remote setting water based mobile sparging system  4000  showing sparging occurring with the barge filled with a plurality of blankets  6000 . 
         [0167]    The barge  4000  is then filled with water. Once the water in the interior  4100  for the hopper barge  4000  has reached a depth that completely covers all blankets  6000  the water pump is turned off and the sparge system  4700  is turned on. This is so the concrete in the blankets  6000  can be cured by the salt water. 
         [0168]    The sparging water conditions the blankets  6000  and allows them to be ready to receive oysters larvae upon setting. The concrete in the blankets  6000  is allowed to be cleaned and conditioned for a minimum of 24 hours, but can go as long as 48 hours. 
         [0169]    In various embodiments during the cleaning and conditioning process the sparging is such that sparging bubbles rise all the way to the top of the water. In various embodiments at least 5 percent of the sparging bubbles rise to the top. In various embodiments least 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 25, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, 44, 46, 48, 50, 60, 70, 75, 80, and 90 percent of the sparging bubbles rise to the top. In various embodiments the percentage of sparging bubbles which rise to the top of the water can fall within a range of between any two of the above referenced percentages. 
         [0170]    Having the sparging system  4700  on while cleaning and conditioning, provides surface action that helps clean and condition the concrete in the blankets  6000 . 
         [0171]    Once the cleaning conditioning process is complete, the water in the interior  4100  is fully drained out of the barge  4000  by reversing the pump flow, and draining all water back into the ocean. The barge  4000  and blankets  6000  are now ready to begin the process of setting. Once the interior  4100  is empty of water, all hanging blankets  6000  can be visually inspected, looking for anything on them that could harm the oysters larvae or anything that looks out of place. Once it is determined that the blankets  6000  appear ready for setting, the interior  4100  is refilled with water. 
         [0172]    In various embodiments at least part of the interior  4100  of the mobile remote setting system  4000  has placed thereon a non-stick material. In various embodiments the non-stick material can be paraffin or wax. In various embodiments the non-stick material can be sprayed onto the interior walls. 
         [0173]    In various embodiments at least part of the lower surfaces  640  of each of the plurality of mats  6000  has placed thereon a non-stick material. In various embodiments the non-stick material can be paraffin or wax. In various embodiments the non-stick material can be sprayed onto the lower surfaces of each of the plurality of mats. 
         [0174]    When all blankets  6000  are completely covered with water in the interior  4100 , the water flow is stopped. Because of weight capacity of the barge  4000 , preferably the water cover is less than 3-4 inches above the top of the blankets  6000 . When the filling water flow is turned off, the sparging system  2700  is turned on. Once the water in the interior  4100  has come to a full roil, the oyster larvae can be introduced into the interior  4100 . Eyed larvae preferably are seeded between 1000-2000 eyed larvae per square foot of concrete area of the blankets  6000  being hung in the barge  4000  to be covered with spat. 
         [0175]    In various embodiments the amount of oyster larvae introduced into the interior can be at least 750 oyster larvae per square foot of area on which the oyster larvae are to set on the blankets  6000 . In various embodiments the lower faces  6040  of the blankets  6000  are not used in the calculation of the total surface area on which the oyster larvae are to set on the blankets  6000  in calculating the amount of oyster larvae per square foot. In various embodiments the outer perimeter dimensions of the upper face  6030  control for calculating the total surface area on which the oyster larvae are to be set on the blankets  6000  for oyster larvae per square foot of surface (here a rough calculation of surface are for oyster larvae setting can be easily calculated based on the external perimeter dimensions of each blanket  6000 —which for ease of calculation ignores, even though oyster larvae will set thereupon, the internal surface area of the openings  280 , sides of the walls leading to the recessed area  400 , and sides of each of the concrete blocks  200 ). This simplified calculation of surface area will be called “simplified upper face surface area.” In various embodiments at least 750 oyster larvae will be added to the interior  4100  for each square foot of simplified upper surface area. In various embodiments at least 250, 300, 350, 400, 450, 500, 550, 600, 650, 700, 750, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800, 1900, 2000, 2100, 2200, 2300, 2400, 2500, 2600, 2700, 2800, 2900, and/or 3000 oyster larvae will be added to the interior  4100  for each square foot of simplified upper surface area. In various embodiments the amount of oyster larvae added to the interior  4100  can fall within a range of between any two of the above referenced minimum amount of oyster larvae added to the interior  4100  for each square foot of simplified upper surface area. 
         [0176]    In various embodiments the predefined period of time for sparging after introducing the oyster larvae can be at least 48 hours. In various embodiments the predefined time period after introducing the oyster larvae can be at least 48, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 72, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 96, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, and 150 hours. In various embodiments the predefined time period for sparging after introducing the oyster larvae can fall within a range of any of the above two minimum predefined time periods for sparging after introducing the oyster larvae. 
         [0177]      FIG. 31  shows a plurality of sparging jets  4710  creating a plurality of sparging bubbles which roil and cause movement in the interior  4100  water which in turn causes movement of the oyster larvae introduced into the interior  4100 . Preferably, the eyed larvae are placed in the interior  4100  water for seeding. When larvae become ready to set (i.e., hot larvae), which occurs at approximately the two week mark, they have grown an eye and a foot. The eyed larvae ready to set can be collected at a hatching facility and provided to the barge  4000  in a cooled down semi-hibernation state. The cooled temperature of the eyed larvae should be greater than freezing (as freezing would kill the larvae) and preferably about 38 degrees F. In various embodiments the range can be between 32.1 degrees and 45 degrees F. In various embodiments the temperature can fall within a range of between any two of the following temperature points: 32.1, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, and 45 degrees F. The cooled eyed larvae can be slowly warmed to ambient temperature to avoid shocking the eyed larvae by a too large temperature gradient (such as by introducing the larvae to warmer water and stirring the mixture of water and larvae). For example the warming period can be between 2 to 4 hours. Once the eyed larvae have been brought to substantially the same temperature of the water in the interior  4100 , the eyed larvae can be introduced into the interior  4100 . When the eyed larvae are dropped into the interior  4100  they would tend to fall to the floor  4110 , but the sparging jets  4800  and bubbles  4810  causing the interior  4100  water to roil and move tends to evenly distribute the eyed larvae through the interior  4100  and thereby evenly distribute setting of these eyed larvae on the plurality of blankets  6000  hung in the interior  4100 . In one embodiment barge  4000  can hold  104 , 4-inch blankets  6000 , which equates to  2916  linear feet or 25,000 square feet of concrete surface. For this amount of concrete, 25 million to 50 million larvae must be introduced. 
         [0178]    In various embodiments during the larvae setting process the sparging is such that sparging bubbles rise all the way to the top of the water. In various embodiments at least 5 percent of the sparging bubbles rise to the top. In various embodiments least 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 25, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, 44, 46, 48, 50, 60, 70, 75, 80, and 90 percent of the sparging bubbles rise to the top. In various embodiments the percentage of sparging bubbles which rise to the top of the water can fall within a range of between any two of the above referenced percentages. 
         [0179]    In various embodiments the average size of each of the plurality of openings in the sparging system can be about 1/16 inch in size. In various embodiments the average size of the plurality of sparging openings can be about 1/128, 1/64, 1/32, 1/16, ⅛, and 1/10 inches. In various embodiments the average size of the plurality of sparging openings can fall within a range of between any two of the above reference average sizes. 
         [0180]    In various embodiments the spacing between the plurality over sparging openings can be sized so that the sparging openings tend to fall between sets of blankets  6000  being hung. In various embodiments this spacing can be 2 feet. In various embodiments the average spacing can be the depth of a blanket  6000  plus 25 percent. In various embodiments the average spacing can be the depth of two blankets  6000  plus 25 percent. In various embodiments the spacing between the sparging openings can be about 2 feet. In various embodiments the upper surface of the barge can include a series of indicia indicating where blankets are to be hung causing the blankets, when hung based on the indicia, to fall between sparging openings in the plurality of sparging openings. 
         [0181]    In various embodiments each of the plurality of openings can emit an average of at least 200 bubbles per minute during sparging. In various embodiments each of the plurality of openings can emit an average of at least 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, 400, 450, and 500 bubbles per minute. In various embodiments each of the plurality of openings can emit an average number of bubbles per minute that fall within a range of between any two of the above referenced average number of bubbles per minute. 
         [0182]    After the predesignated time period for sparging has elapsed, the interior  4100  water can be drained. 
         [0183]    In various embodiments the mobile remote setting facility  4000  with water sufficient to cover the top of the plurality of mats  6000  and sparging the water for a predetermined period of time and then removing substantially all of the water from the interior  4100 . Sparging is done in the interior to dynamically move the oyster larvae around the interior  4100  and facilitate an even set density of spat on the plurality mats or blankets  6000 . As the sparging moves the oyster larvae around the interior  4000 , they “feel” the concrete of the plurality of mats or blankets  6000  with their foot and set in place on the concrete. Without sparging moving the water column, once introduced, the oyster larvae would tend to fall to the bottom of the interior  4100  and set in a clump at the bottom. 
         [0184]    In various embodiments the predefined period of time for sparging after introducing the oyster larvae ranges between 48 to 96 hours, or between 72 to 96 hours. During this sparging time period, algae (e.g., concentrated algae) can be introduced into the water in the interior  4100  to feed the oyster larvae during setting process. In various embodiments the predefined period of time for sparging after introducing the oyster larvae can be at least 48 hours. In various embodiments the predefined time period after introducing the oyster larvae can be at least 48, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 72, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 96, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, and 150 hours. In various embodiments the predefined time period for sparging after introducing the oyster larvae can fall within a range of any of the above two minimum predefined time periods for sparging after introducing the oyster larvae. 
         [0185]    In various embodiments the amount of concentrated algae added can be at least 2 liters of 3 million cell per milliliter per day per million oyster larvae. 
         [0186]    In various embodiments, after sparging is stopped but before the plurality of mats or blankets  6000  are removed from the interior  4100  from the remote setting facility  4000 , the additional step is performed of adding feed to the interior  4100  in a sufficient amount to facilitate rapid growth of the larvae after setting (i.e., feeding the oyster spat). Because oysters are filter feeders, water with feed flowing through the plurality of hung blankets or mats  6000  (open faced) will allow the oyster spat to feed naturally. In various embodiments this feeding period lasts for at least 7 days after sparging is stopped. Now that the oyster larvae are set, they must be fed to ensure that they survive and continue to grow. Each day that the oyster spat is allowed to grow in the protected environment of the interior  4100  of the mobile remote setting facility  4000  makes them that much safer from predators upon placement. In various embodiments during the feeding period water with feed for the oyster spat is pumped into the interior  4100 , while at the same time and at a spaced apart location water is pumped out of the interior  4100  to substantially maintain a relatively constant water level in the interior  4100  during the feeding process. In one embodiment a first pump  8010  with inlet is located at one end of the interior  4100  while a second pump  8020  with outlet is located at a spaced apart end of the interior  4100 . The first pump  8010  can pump water into the interior  4100  from a predetermined water source such as the location where the mobile remote setting facility  4000  is located during the remote setting process (e.g., a body of water such as a pond, lake, bay, ocean, and/or river). Alternatively a public water source can be used. The second pump  8020  can discharge into the same water source. The pumping of water into and out of the interior  4100  creates a flow process, allowing the water to bring natural feed in the form of algae to the oyster spat. Because oysters are filter feeders, the water with feed flowing through the interior  4100  and in between the sets of plurality of mats  6000 ,  6000 ′ allows the oyster spat to feed naturally with the nutrients included in the newly introduced water. After a predetermined period of time (e.g., one week) the feeding flow is stopped, the interior  4100  water drained, and the plurality of mats  6000  with oyster spat are ready to be removed from the interior  4100  of the mobile remote setting facility  4000  and placed onto a predesignated location to prevent or resist soil erosion. During this time period of pumping water in various embodiments no additional food is added to the interior  4100 . 
         [0187]    In various embodiments between the time the feeding flow is stopped and the time the plurality of mats  6000  are removed their hanging state, substantially all of the water in the interior  4100  of the mobile remote setting facility  4000  is emptied and, for a predefined period of time, the plurality of hanging mats  6000  remain hanging in the interior  4100  of the mobile remote setting facility  4000 . In various embodiments the predefined period of time can be substantial causing risking that a substantial percentage of the oyster spat will die. In various embodiments during this predefined period of time a sprinkler system  8000  can be used to maintain a predesignated moisture content on the plurality of hanging mats  6000  with oyster spat. 
         [0188]    After the setting process the plurality of hanging mats  6000  with oyster spat can now be placed at a predesignated installation location. 
         [0189]      FIG. 37  is a perspective view schematically showing the placement of multiple flexible blankets  6000 ,  6000 ′, etc. on a bank  1210  to prevent erosion. In various embodiments the plurality of mats  6000  are removed from the interior  4100  of the mobile remote setting facility  4000  using a crane with rigging  6900  and placed on the selected installation locations. 
       Placement of Blankets 
       [0190]      FIG. 37  is a perspective view schematically showing the placement of multiple flexible blankets  6000 ,  6001 , etc. on a bank  1210  to prevent erosion.  FIGS. 38 and 39  schematically show connecting the multiple blankets  6000 ,  6001  to each other. 
         [0191]    After the period of incubation, the hopper barge  4000  may be released from its moorings and moved to a desirable location near the shoreline  1200 , 1300  or bank where the blankets  2000  are to be deployed. Each blanket  6000  may then be lifted out of the hopper barge  4000  by a crane or other lifting means and laid down over the bottom  1220 , sidewalls  1210 , 1310  and/or banks  1200 , 1300  and shorelines to be protected, as shown for example in  FIG. 6 . 
         [0192]    In various embodiments, where water depth allows navigation of the water based mobile setting facility  4000 , the mobile setting facility  4000  can be moved via water and into place immediately adjacent the selected location for ultimate placement of the plurality of mats  6000 . Alternatively, in various embodiments, where the water depth is too shallow to allow for navigation of the water based mobile setting facility  4000 , the mobile setting facility can be moved substantially as far as navigable water permits and then the plurality of mats  6000  removed from the mobile setting facility  4000  and loaded onto a vessel which can continue to navigate in the water such as a deck barge. In the instance of a deck barge the plurality of mats can be lifted by a crane barge onto the deck of the work barge. 
         [0193]    In various embodiments the plurality of mats  6000  are placed in a selected location to prevent erosion. In various embodiments the selected location includes a sidewall  1210 , 1310  of a waterway. In various embodiments the selected location is substantially underwater. 
         [0194]    In various embodiments the plurality of blankets  6000  can be placed adjacent one another to form a larger retaining wall or living blank. In these embodiments the individual blankets  6000  can be fastened to each other by conventional fastening techniques.  FIGS. 38 and 39  schematically show connecting the multiple blankets  6000 ,  6000 ′ to each other using wire stubs/cross blanket connectors  6650 , locking units  6652 , connecting means  6654  and support loops  6700 . 
         [0195]    In various embodiments a protective covering can be placed over substantially all of the top surface  6030  of each of the plurality of mats  6000 . In one embodiment the protective covering can be a biodegradable predator net. 
         [0196]    In various embodiments after placement of the processed plurality of mats or blankets at the predesignated erosion control location, the oysters on these plurality of mats or blankets will continue to grow together to form a “living blanket” which over time will combine into a solid reef of oysters. 
         [0197]    In various embodiments, after being removed from the interior  4100  of the mobile remote setting facility  4000 , the lower surface  6040  of at least one of the plurality of mats  6000  is placed on top of at least one of the other of the plurality of mats  6000 ′. This can occur for example, where the remote setting activities are not immediately adjacent the selected location for placement of the plurality of mats  6000 . In this situation the plurality of mats may be removed from the mobile remote setting facility  4000 , and loaded onto another means of transportation to the ultimate selected location for placement of the plurality of mats  6000 . During the transfer from the mobile remote setting facility to the alternative means of transportation one or more of the plurality of mats  6000  may need to be stacked on top of each other.  FIG. 36  is a perspective view of the showing a first flexible blanket  6000 ′ being lowered a second flexible blanket  6000 . Because the plurality of blocks  200  for lower blanket  6000  have recessed areas  400  at least the oyster spat set in those recessed areas will not be harmed or damaged by upper blanket  6001 . 
         [0198]    In various embodiments a plurality of water based mobile setting facilities  4000 ,  4000 ′ can be used, for example, for large scale erosion control projects. In these embodiments, after a first water based mobile setting facility  4000  is emptied of its plurality of seeded blankets  6000  being substantially covered with oyster spat, it can be sent to a predesignated loading facility where the first mobile setting facility  4000  is filled again with new plurality of mats  6000  which will require being set with oyster spat using one or more of the methods described in this specification. During the time period that the first water based mobile setting facility  4000  is being sent back to a predesignated loading area for refilling, being refilled, and then returning to the predesignated location for remote setting, a second water based mobile setting facility  4000 ′ can be engaged in the process of remote setting oyster spat on a plurality of mats  6000  hung in the interior  4100 ′ of the second water based mobile setting facility  6000 ′ using one or more embodiments disclosed herein. 
         [0199]    In various embodiments at least part of the placement of multiple flexible blankets  6000 ,  6001 , etc. on a bank  1210  to prevent erosion is above the average mean elevation  1404  of the water surface. In these embodiments plant life can be artificially seeded (e.g., marsh grass, plants, etc.) on the multiple flexible blankets  6000 ,  6001 , etc. which plant life can ultimately grow and form a protective layer above the multiple flexible blankets  6000 ,  6001 , etc. and/or assist in stabilizing the multiple flexible blankets  6000 ,  6001 , etc. from future movement after placement. After placement of the multiple flexible blankets  6000 ,  6001 ,  6002 , etc., the plant life can be artificially seeded (e.g., marsh grass, plants, etc.) on at least a portion of the multiple flexible blankets  6000 ,  6001 , etc. such as the exposed surface above the average mean elevation  1404  of the water surface. In one embodiment artificial seeding of the plant life can be performed by spraying the upper faces  6030  of the multiple flexible blankets  6000 ,  6001 , etc. with plant seeds and/or by placing plant stalks/stems into the vertical openings  282  of the precast blocks  200  of the multiple flexible blankets  6000 ,  6001 , etc. In one embodiment on average at least one plant stalk/stem can be placed in the vertical openings  282  of the precast blocks  200  of the multiple flexible blankets  6000 ,  6000 ′, etc. for the exposed surface of the multiple flexible blankets  6000 ,  6001 , etc. above the average mean elevation  1404  of the water surface. 
       Land Based Mobile Remote Setting System 
       [0200]      FIG. 33  is a top view of a remote setting land-based mobile sparging system  5000  which includes a sparging system  4700  substantially as disclosed for the water based mobile sparging system  4000 .  FIG. 34  is a perspective view of the land-based mobile sparging system  5000  showing a plurality of blankets  6000 ′,  6000 ″ already hanging and an new blanket  6000  being lowered into the truck.  FIG. 35  is a side view of the land based mobile sparging system  5000  showing sparging occurring with the system  5000  filled with a plurality of blankets  6000 . 
       Reseeding 
       [0201]    In one embodiment, where there is death or inadequate growth of oysters after placement on the plurality of mats or blankets  6000 , the areas of death or inadequate growth can be reseeded with oyster spat for setting and growth. In this embodiment pieces of oyster shell (fossilized or freshly harvested) can be arranged in large baskets. Oyster spat or larvae can be seeded onto these shells using a remote setting process as described above. After a good set is complete, the shells with now set oyster spat or larvae can be blown overboard by barges. It is expected that the individual pieces of oyster shell would fall from the surface to the previously placed plurality of mats or blankets, and then settle into recessed areas and/or openings in the plurality of mats or blankets. This “reseeding” introduces a new set of live oyster spat onto the plurality of mats or blankets and wherein this new live oyster spat or larvae can continue to grow on the already placed plurality of mats. 
         [0000]    Vertical Curtain to Protect Dropped Eyed Larvae while Setting onto Blanket 
         [0202]      FIG. 40  is a side view of a previously placed mat or blanket  6000  where a portion  6400  of the spat died.  FIG. 41  is a side view of one method of reseeding a portion of an already laid blanket  6000  including a protective curtain perimeter  9000 .  FIG. 42  is a top view of the protective curtain  9000 .  FIG. 43  is a side schematic view of the curtain  9000  schematically showing oyster larvae  9052  being dropped in the protected area  9100  of the curtain  9000 .  FIG. 44  is a side schematic view of the blanket after the reseeded larvae  9052  have formed spat on the blighted area  6400 . 
         [0203]    A protective screening curtain  9000  can be used to surround an area  6400  of a previously seeded mat or blanket  6000  which may require reseeding after death of prior oyster spat. The protective curtain  9000  can be vertically oriented and extends from the flexible mat  6000  (at its bottom portion  9010 ) to the top of the water surface (at top  9020 ). This embodiment can typically be used in water of less than 8 feet depth. The protective screening curtain  9000  preferably is comprised of a material that allows water flow but restricts larvae  9052  movement. When larvae  9052  become ready to set (i.e., hot larvae), which occurs at approximately the two week mark, they have grown an eye and a foot. The eyed larvae ready to set are collected at the hatching facility and cooled to slow them down and put them into a semi-hibernation state. The cooled temperature should be greater than freezing (as freezing would kill the larvae) and preferably about 38 degrees F. The cooled larvae are transported to the area  6400  of the previously laid mat or blanket  6000  and slowly warmed to ambient temperature to avoid shocking the eyed larvae by a too large temperature gradient (such as by introducing the larvae to warmer water and stirring the mixture of water and larvae). For example the warming period can be between 2 to 4 hours. Once the larvae  9052  have been brought to ambient temperature, the larvae can be introduced to the area  9100  protected by the screening curtain  9000  and the previously seeded mat or blanket. When the larvae are dropped into the water they tend to fall down in the curtain/screened off area (schematically indicated by arrow  9053 ) and onto the flexible mat  6000 . The curtain  9000  restricts movement of the larvae  9052  to the area between the curtain  9000  and the previously seeded mat or blanket  6000  increasing the chances of setting on this area  6400 . The curtain  9000  remains in place (containing the larvae  9052  in this area  9100 ) for a predefined period of time for setting (e.g., 96 hours) to allow the larvae  9052  to set on the previously seeded mat or blanket  6000 . After the curtain  9000  is removed, a predator net can be applied to the mat or blank to protect the newly set larvae against predators. 
         [0000]    Dumping Seeding Substrate onto Blanket from Water Surface 
         [0204]    Alternatively, additional substrate can be remotely seeded and transported to the area  6400  of a previously seeded mat or blanket  6000  which may require reseeding after death of prior oyster spat. The additional substrate can be dried shells, fossilized shells, or any type of rock. The substrate can be ground, broken, or whole. Although not shown, oyster larvae can be remotely set on this substrate in a hatchery environment such as by using baskets, sacks, or loose in a tank. The additional substrate is placed in the baskets, sacks, or tank with water and larvae is added to the water and at least 96 hours is allowed for the larvae to set. The now seeded additional substrate can be transported (e.g., by boat or barge) to the location of the previously seeded mat or blanket  6000  then placed above the impacted area  6400  of the previously seeded mat or blanket  6000  without using a protective curtain  9000  (e.g., put overboard of the boat or barge). The now seeded additional substrate will fall through the water and land on top of the impacted area  6400  of the previously seeded mat or blanket  6000 . The now seeded additional substrate can be put overboard by blowing it with air or manually dumping it overboard. The now seeded additional substrate falls through the water and settles into the open spaces of the plurality of recessed blocks that make up the blankets  6000  (e.g., recessed areas and holes in blanket  6000 ). The now placed seeded additional substrate will allow the mat or blanket  6000  area  6400  to recolonize. 
         [0205]    The following is a list of reference numerals: 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
             
               
               
             
               
               
             
           
               
                   
               
               
                 LIST FOR REFERENCE NUMERALS 
               
             
          
           
               
                 (Reference 
                   
               
               
                 No.) 
                 (Description) 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 10 
                 method and apparatus 
               
               
                 100 
                 living blanket 
               
               
                 200 
                 precast block 
               
               
                 201 
                 lower precast block 
               
               
                 210 
                 height 
               
               
                 240 
                 cables 
               
               
                 250 
                 tunnels 
               
               
                 260 
                 vertical openings 
               
               
                 262 
                 vertical openings 
               
               
                 270 
                 U-shaped vertical channels 
               
               
                 272 
                 U-shaped vertical channels 
               
               
                 280 
                 vertical openings 
               
               
                 300 
                 upper perimeter edge 
               
               
                 400 
                 recessed area 
               
               
                 410 
                 lower top surface 
               
               
                 410 
                 lower vertical second tier surface 
               
               
                 420 
                 depth 
               
               
                 500 
                 bottom/lower base 
               
               
                 600 
                 half block 
               
               
                 650 
                 left perimeter 
               
               
                 654 
                 right perimeter 
               
               
                 1000 
                 waterway 
               
               
                 1200 
                 first bank of waterway/side/bank 
               
               
                 1202 
                 grass 
               
               
                 1210 
                 sidewall 
               
               
                 1212 
                 eroded portion/sidewall erosion 
               
               
                 1216 
                 portion likely to slough off due to erosion 
               
               
                 1220 
                 bottom/water bottom 
               
               
                 1230 
                 at risk portion 
               
               
                 1300 
                 second bank of waterway/side/bank 
               
               
                 1310 
                 sidewall 
               
               
                 1400 
                 wave 
               
               
                 1404 
                 average elevation of water 
               
               
                 1410 
                 wave crest 
               
               
                 1420 
                 wave trough 
               
               
                 1430 
                 average mean elevation 
               
               
                 1450 
                 wave 
               
               
                 1460 
                 wave crest 
               
               
                 1470 
                 wave trough 
               
               
                 1480 
                 average mean elevation 
               
               
                 1500 
                 marine vessel 
               
               
                 2000 
                 blanket/pocket or pillow blanket 
               
               
                 2001 
                 blanket/pocket or pillow blanket 
               
               
                 2010 
                 top 
               
               
                 2012 
                 header 
               
               
                 2020 
                 bottom 
               
               
                 2030 
                 support beam/header 
               
               
                 2031 
                 support beam/header 
               
               
                 2032 
                 lateral support bracket 
               
               
                 2050 
                 upper portion 
               
               
                 2051 
                 upper portion 
               
               
                 2052 
                 reinforced strands of netting/strands 
               
               
                 2054 
                 netting 
               
               
                 2100 
                 lower portion 
               
               
                 2200 
                 first plurality of pockets or pillows 
               
               
                 2210 
                 upper portion of pillows 
               
               
                 2220 
                 lower portion of pillows 
               
               
                 2230 
                 base 
               
               
                 2250 
                 plurality of pockets or pillows encasing cultch which is 
               
               
                   
                 seeded with oyster larvae/pocket 
               
               
                 2300 
                 cultch 
               
               
                 2350 
                 concrete encased rod 
               
               
                 2352 
                 support rod 
               
               
                 2356 
                 concrete encasement 
               
               
                 2400 
                 plurality of supports such as stakes or poles 
               
               
                 2500 
                 second plurality of pockets or pillows 
               
               
                 2550 
                 second plurality of pockets or pillows encasing cultch 
               
               
                   
                 which is seeded with oyster larvae 
               
               
                 2570 
                 cultch 
               
               
                 2700 
                 blanket including a plurality of hollow bowl shaped 
               
               
                   
                 containers interconnected 
               
               
                 2710 
                 covering/netting 
               
               
                 2750 
                 plurality of interconnected bowls/bowls 
               
               
                 2790 
                 interconnecting means/cable/rope 
               
               
                 2792 
                 knot 
               
               
                 2800 
                 interconnecting reinforcement 
               
               
                 2900 
                 bowl/container 
               
               
                 2901 
                 bow/container 
               
               
                 2910 
                 interior/interior surface 
               
               
                 2950 
                 base 
               
               
                 2955 
                 planar bottom 
               
               
                 4000 
                 barge/remote setting water-based mobile sparging system 
               
               
                 4010 
                 body 
               
               
                 4020 
                 upper surface 
               
               
                 4030 
                 lower surface 
               
               
                 4100 
                 interior 
               
               
                 4104 
                 perimeter edge 
               
               
                 4105 
                 sidewalls 
               
               
                 4110 
                 floor 
               
               
                 4200 
                 plurality of pilings 
               
               
                 4500 
                 water surface 
               
               
                 4600 
                 water surface 
               
               
                 4700 
                 sparging system 
               
               
                 4702 
                 compressor 
               
               
                 4710 
                 plurality of sparging lines 
               
               
                 4712 
                 first line 
               
               
                 4713 
                 direction of flow/arrow 
               
               
                 4714 
                 second line 
               
               
                 4715 
                 direction of flow/arrow 
               
               
                 4716 
                 third line 
               
               
                 4717 
                 direction of flow/arrow 
               
               
                 4718 
                 fourth line 
               
               
                 4719 
                 direction of flow/arrow 
               
               
                 4720 
                 plurality of sparging openings 
               
               
                 4750 
                 main sparging air inlet 
               
               
                 4780 
                 support bracket 
               
               
                 4800 
                 plurality of jets of air 
               
               
                 4810 
                 plurality of sparging bubbles 
               
               
                 5000 
                 remote setting land-based mobile sparging 
               
               
                   
                 system/trailer/train 
               
               
                 5010 
                 container/body 
               
               
                 5020 
                 upper surface 
               
               
                 5025 
                 plurality of recessed areas 
               
               
                 5030 
                 lower surface 
               
               
                 5040 
                 base 
               
               
                 5045 
                 plurality of wheels 
               
               
                 5100 
                 interior 
               
               
                 5110 
                 floor 
               
               
                 5500 
                 water surface 
               
               
                 5610 
                 portion of blanket above water surface 
               
               
                 5620 
                 portion of blanket below water surface 
               
               
                 6000 
                 flexible blanket 
               
               
                 6001 
                 flexible blanket 
               
               
                 6002 
                 flexible blanket 
               
               
                 6003 
                 flexible blanket 
               
               
                 6010 
                 top 
               
               
                 6020 
                 bottom 
               
               
                 6030 
                 upper face 
               
               
                 6031 
                 upper face 
               
               
                 6040 
                 lower face 
               
               
                 6041 
                 lower face 
               
               
                 6050 
                 left perimeter 
               
               
                 6054 
                 right perimeter 
               
               
                 6100 
                 plurality of interconnected blocks 
               
               
                 6101 
                 plurality of interconnected blocks 
               
               
                 6200 
                 row 
               
               
                 6204 
                 row 
               
               
                 6208 
                 row 
               
               
                 6300 
                 column 
               
               
                 6304 
                 column 
               
               
                 6308 
                 column 
               
               
                 6400 
                 dead or blighted area for spat 
               
               
                 6600 
                 plurality of connecting wires 
               
               
                 6650 
                 wire stubs/cross blanket connector 
               
               
                 6652 
                 locking unit/connecting means 
               
               
                 6654 
                 connecting means 
               
               
                 6700 
                 plurality of support loops 
               
               
                 6800 
                 support beam 
               
               
                 6810 
                 lateral support bracket/lateral support 
               
               
                 6850 
                 plurality of support straps 
               
               
                 6851 
                 plurality of support straps 
               
               
                 6900 
                 rigging 
               
               
                 8000 
                 sprinkler system 
               
               
                 8010 
                 first water source 
               
               
                 8020 
                 second water source 
               
               
                 8030 
                 plurality of nozzles 
               
               
                 8050 
                 plurality of water streams 
               
               
                 9000 
                 protective curtain 
               
               
                 9010 
                 lower end 
               
               
                 9020 
                 upper end 
               
               
                 9030 
                 floatation device for top of curtain 
               
               
                 9100 
                 protective area 
               
               
                 9050 
                 dispenser 
               
               
                 9052 
                 larvae 
               
               
                 9053 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 9056 
                 spat 
               
               
                 9058 
                 upper surface reseeded with spat 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0206]    All measurements disclosed herein are at standard temperature and pressure, at sea level on Earth, unless indicated otherwise. All materials used or intended to be used in a human being are biocompatible, unless indicated otherwise. 
         [0207]    It will be understood that each of the elements described above, or two or more together may also find a useful application in other types of methods differing from the type described above. Without further analysis, the foregoing will so fully reveal the gist of the present invention that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily adapt it for various applications without omitting features that, from the standpoint of prior art, fairly constitute essential characteristics of the generic or specific aspects of this invention set forth in the appended claims. The foregoing embodiments are presented by way of example only; the scope of the present invention is to be limited only by the following claims. 
         [0208]    While certain novel features of this invention shown and described below are pointed out in the annexed claims, the invention is not intended to be limited to the details specified, since a person of ordinary skill in the relevant art will understand that various omissions, modifications, substitutions and changes in the forms and details of the device illustrated and in its operation may be made without departing in any way from the spirit of the present invention. No feature of the invention is critical or essential unless it is expressly stated as being “critical” or “essential.”