Penny’s Reef

The M.A.R.S.H. Project had the pleasure of working with the fine folks over at the South Carolina Oyster Recycling and Enhancement Program (S.C.O.R.E.) in April 2025.

With a steady team of volunteers we built modified wire reefs (MWR) for installation at the mouth of Halsey Creek to create our first living shorelin. We are lovingly naming this restoration project "Penny's Reef," in memory of Penny Williams. Penny was a generous supporter and cherished friend of The M.A.R.S.H. Project and family of family!

This living shoreline was not only built with the traditional MWRs and oyster bags that make the magic happen, but with a few prototypes from Schyler Clogston’s class over at the Clemson Design Center of Charleston. Their work showcased materials and structures that prioritize eco-friendly design, zero plastic, and nature-inspired textures.

We'll be checking in on these experiments in a year to see who wins "Best Substrate Mama.”

The restoration component of the SCORE program works with local citizen groups (LIKE US!!!) to conduct habitat restoration projects and to monitor the success of those efforts. As of October 2014, more than 25,000 volunteers have used more than 1,100 tons of shell to build 225 reefs at 69 reef sites along the South Carolina coast.