2 of 9

Dynamics of Change, Relationships, and Industry

Point Judith Pond Oyster Farmers’ Reflections

Elizabeth Chivers - Lazarus Summer Internship Independent Project

3 of 9

Initial Research Question

What are the defining practices and economics of Southern Rhode Island’s oyster aquaculture?

4 of 9

Research Goals & Intentions

Explore a deeply interesting industry that I’ve had proximity to throughout my life
Center practitioner knowledge
Interview with an open mind and humility – listen first!
Create a piece of work that is accurate to the information and experience shared in the interviews

5 of 9

My Connection & Context!

6 of 9

Interviews & Interviewees

Chris Morris – lifelong Rhode Island resident and fisherman, sister to Tom Hoxsie, former employee of North Star Farm.

Harvey Cataldo – former musician, resident of Great Island on Point Judith Pond, founder and owner of Bluff Hill Cove Oyster Company.

Mick Chivers – college student, new to the industry and stewarding a portion of the farm that was once Tom’s, mentored by Harvey & Chris.

Interviews were conducted at the docks and over the phone. Often, they just flowed like conversations – very rarely did I need to ask a particular question.

7 of 9

Title Themes & Concepts

Change

Relationships

Industry

As I reviewed the interviews, I noticed three particularly pertinent dynamics, those below. These were central to what we discussed, and so I decided to tie the breadth of information garnered around these threads as I wrote.

8 of 9

Process & Writing

New tools & methods!
Reflecting, calibrating, clarifying
Selecting the aforementioned themes
What shape would it take?

Creating an account of the interviews and the knowledge they revealed, around the key stories, people, and themes.

1 of 9