The DECO

The Delaware Environmental Coalition (The DECO) works with communities in Sussex County to advance sustainable practices that strengthen the coastal environment. Through practical projects and policy initiatives, the organization focuses on aquaculture, fisheries, green infrastructure, and living shorelines, with the goal of improving environmental resilience where land meets sea.

The DECO supports restorative aquaculture that benefits Delaware’s coastal ecosystems while producing sustainable seafood. Its fisheries work serves local aquaculture businesses and nonprofit restoration efforts, including oyster reefs and living shoreline projects. The organization also promotes green infrastructure, connecting natural features and green and blue spaces to support biodiversity and provide benefits to communities. Living shoreline installations offer an ecologically favorable approach to reducing erosion in low-lying coastal areas.

Projects include the Fisheries and Aquaculture Innovation Center, whose pilot-scale oyster hatchery is intended to address supply and infrastructure needs for local industry and restoration practitioners, and Living Shores, which uses shellfish, grasses, and reef materials to help stabilize vulnerable coasts.