The algae would be exposed to contaminated waters and then harvested, taking with it the toxic metals. Sayre says this new approach is better than the traditional chemical engineering approaches in that it is metal specific, non-toxic, and a renewable resource. Oyster reefs are more diverse than surrounding, unstructured areas. Therefore, oyster reefs offer more than just places to collect oysters. As a result of recent declines in oyster landings, oyster reefs are often seen as having little value as a fishery resource.
Oysters also have a positive effect on water quality as filter feeders.
Researchers have have constructed six experimental reefs at both developed and spoiled sites to study how reefs develop and function, in the hopes that this will help them restore this disappearing habitat. Melvin and associates, University of Washington professors Loveday Conquest and Julia Parrish, are examining ways to reduce drownings of seabirds in commercial fishers' nets. Especially vulnerable in the Puget Sound sockeye salmon fishery are common murres and rhinoceros auklets. Both are easily entangled in gillnets while underwater chasing fish. Murres, auklets and several other species are protected under federal law, while marbled murrelets are listed as threatened in Washington state.