Delay Likely In Creation Of Va. Oyster Zones

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (AP) -- A proposal to create oyster aquaculture opportunity zones is headed to Virginia regulators.

The Virginia Marine Resources Commission was expected to pass the proposal at its meeting Tuesday in Newport News, but it now appears the measure will be put on hold.

The delay involves legislation in Richmond that could block the establishment of 1,000 acres of prime water bottom to promote the shellfishing zones. The creation of the zones is seen by some as competition with the state's growing oyster farming industry.

The zones were to be created in 15 areas, including the Rappahannock River, tributaries of Mobjack Bay and around Tangier Island in the Chesapeake Bay.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)