Evaluating Satellite Data Products and State Monitoring Data as Substitutes for on-farm Data for Oyster Aquaculture Modeling

Chesapeake Bay has experienced nutrient-related water quality impairment for decades due to the discharge of nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorus) from human-related activities in the watershed. Water quality monitoring indicates a need for additional nutrient management. Oyster aquaculture has become a focus as an additional management strategy because oysters remove nutrients as they feed. Models can estimate oyster harvest and related nutrient removal, helping to develop comprehensive management plans that include oyster aquaculture. Water quality measures for at least 1 y are required as model inputs. Field sampling and laboratory analyses are time and resource-intensive. There is interest in finding less costly methods of data collection, or in using data already being collected for other purposes as model inputs.