Demi Johnson's Oyster Project

In the past two decades, the oyster population in Mississippi’s Gulf waters has been devastated by both natural and man-made disasters. Among those working to restore oyster habitats is ninth-grader Demi Johnson, who was recently recognized by the National Geographic Society for growing more than 1,000 oysters, which are likely to spawn millions more. 

Demi Johnson

Demi's commitment to oyster conservation began in the seventh grade when she initiated an oyster farming project at Schooner Pier in Biloxi, Mississippi. Motivated by the decline of oyster populations due to natural disasters and human activities, she collaborated with the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources to cultivate over 1,000 oysters. From September 2022 through to March 2023, she was provided four cages located in the St. Martin Bayou. Johnson’s site produced over 1,000 oysters this year that will in turn spawn millions of larvae into the ecosystem, a huge ecological impact. September 2023 through March 2024, six cages were located at Schooner Pier. Once a week, she visited her farm to clean debris and predators off the oysters with the help of the Department of Marine Resources. These oysters are expected to spawn millions more, significantly bolstering the local marine ecosystem. 

In 2024, Demi's project, "Off Bottom Oysters," garnered national attention when she became a finalist in the National Geographic Society's Slingshot Challenge. Her innovative approach earned her a $1,000 grant, which she selflessly donated back to the Mississippi Oyster Gardening Program to further support conservation efforts. 

Beyond her hands-on conservation work, Demi has been instrumental in raising awareness about the importance of oyster reefs. Collaborating with the Walter Anderson Museum of Art, she has integrated scientific inquiry with creative storytelling, fostering a deeper connection between the community and their natural environment.

Looking ahead, Demi aspires to expand her conservation efforts and inspire other young individuals to engage in environmental stewardship. Her dedication serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that passion and commitment can have on preserving our planet's natural resources.