The Oxford Laboratory was established in 1960 by the U.S. Bureau of Commercial Fisheries for the primary purpose of investigating oyster diseases that struck Chesapeake and Delaware Bays in the late 1950s. It became the Cooperative Oxford Laboratory in 1987, through an agreement between Maryland DNR and the NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service to share the facility and to cooperate in research. In 1998, the newly renovated and expanded facility was dedicated to Senator Paul S. Sarbanes, a friend and mentor to the lab throughout his service in the U.S. Senate. Scientists at the Oxford Laboratory investigate health problems of fish, shellfish and other aquatic life in the Chesapeake Bay and along the Atlantic Coast. They also collaborate with scientists nationally and internationally to improve understanding of aquatic animal health and develop management strategies to prevent and mitigate diseases. The Laboratory participates in the National Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Stranding Network, investigating strandings of these rare and endangered animals in Maryland, and sharing information, samples and expertise with other institutions and coastal states. New techniques for classifying and mapping critical reef habitats in Chesapeake Bay have been developed recently at the Laboratory. These methods are now being applied in Maryland’s oyster restoration efforts.

The information provided on this site is primarily focused on Maryland's Department of Natural Resources' efforts. To learn more about the Federal efforts please click here.