Oyster reefs; clarify the designation of public reefs for purposes of leasing.

Summary

HB 734 would let the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources lease bottom areas for oyster farming, define specific historic reefs as public, and cap state-owned reef area at 50% of permitted zones. It requires lessees to be Mississippi residents or companies, limits lease size, sets a $3 per acre annual rent, and mandates reporting and cultch placement. The goal is to boost oyster production while protecting public and environmental interests.

AI-generated summary — may be incomplete or inaccurate. Verify against the official bill text.

Topics

Share