Story perspectives

Harsh Winter Costs Long Island Oysters $2.4 Million

4/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

A harsh winter caused an estimated $2.4 million in losses to Long Island oyster farming, damaging equipment and operations.
Chris Quartuccio of Blue Island Oyster Company says winter was the most intense in 20 years.
Peter Stein of Peeko Oysters confirms inventory losses and aims to retain his workforce.
Governor Kathy Hochul seeks a disaster designation to unlock low-interest loans, and Maryland oystermen seek federal aid from Representative Andy Harris.

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Story summary

A harsh winter caused an estimated $2.4 million in losses to Long Island oyster farming, damaging equipment and operations.
Chris Quartuccio of Blue Island Oyster Company says winter was the most intense in 20 years.
Peter Stein of Peeko Oysters confirms inventory losses and aims to retain his workforce.
Governor Kathy Hochul seeks a disaster designation to unlock low-interest loans, and Maryland oystermen seek federal aid from Representative Andy Harris.