A recent dramatic decline in oyster reefs has drawn considerable public attention to the societal issues on conservation and restoration of oyster fisheries. So far, most efforts have primarily targeted their benthic phase leaving the pelagic oyster larvae largely elusive. While research on modeling and data collection has improved our understanding of some strategies for enhancing oyster production, uncertainties still exist regarding the appropriateness of model application and overlooked pelagic oyster larvae in relevant studies. Recently we have conducted integrated research through developing a population model assisted by field surveys targeting the overlooked pelagic oyster larvae. This talk will illustrate a mechanistic population model of pelagic oyster larvae, introduce a long-term monitoring program of oyster larvae and environmental factors in Galveston Bay, Texas, then display the research for informing resource managers on the strategic placement of oyster sanctuaries and the effectiveness of restoration and management efforts for this economically and ecologically important marine living resources.