ReClam The Bay Holds Open House in Toms River

The group dedicated to enhancing Barnegat Bay's fragile ecosystem rolls out the welcome mat for new recruits tonight in Toms River.

ReClam The Bay's open house starts at 7 PM in the Ocean County Extension Center on Whitesville Road. The group is gradually succeeding in its mission to nurture regrowth of the bay's shellfish population.

Plans for the year ahead are on the agenda. Organizers will also explain ways to be part of helping Barnegat Bay, literally, from the bottom up with the help of baby clams and oysters.

Members of the Ocean County Extension offer a brief course on the finer points of being a "shellfish gardener,” and also shed light on the Barnegat Bay Shellfish Restoration Program.

Organizers say there will be lots of parking space, refreshments and a chance to mingle with people from all around the bay. It's open to people of all ages at 1623 Whitesville Road, Route 527. Visit their web page.