In 2019, the Bonnet Carre spillway had the longest opening since its construction. This historical flooding event led to a decrease in salinity within the Mississippi Sound that persisted until mid-July, a period typically showing high levels of oyster spawning. Mississippi oyster reefs lost approximately 96.9% of oysters in the western MS Sound and about 63.8% in the eastern MS Sound. While the loss of a major commercial fishery is cause for worry, the long-term effects must be considered. Oyster reefs provide habitat for many marine species and coastal protection from storm surge and erosion. The structure and stability of these reefs combat natural degradation with the recruitment of new individuals from annual spawning. Reef assessments performed in the subsequent years showed minimal recruitment of oyster spat to reefs which triggered the development of a spat settlement and recruitment monitoring program. 
The Mississippi Department of Marine Resources (MDMR) identified historically productive oyster reef sites within state waters to investigate spatial and temporal patterns of Eastern oyster (Crassostrea virginica) recruitment. From 2022 to 2025, preliminary monitoring data indicate a marked increase in spat settlement across all study locations. Through this project, we aim to determine localized oyster settlement trends and understand the driving factors of survival of oyster reefs when faced with natural and man-made disasters. Additionally, insights from this study will inform adaptive management strategies and enhance the effectiveness of oyster restoration efforts along the Mississippi Coast.