Bevans Oyster Company
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Seafood aquaculture |
| Founded | 1966 |
| Founder | Ronald "Ronnie" Bevans |
| Headquarters | Westmoreland County , United States |
Area served | United States |
| Products | Oysters (fresh, half shell, canned, jarred), menhaden bait |
Bevans Oyster Company is a seafood aquaculture enterprise specializing in oyster farming, based in Westmoreland County, Virginia. Established in 1966 by Ronald "Ronnie" Bevans—who earned the nickname "Chesapeake's Oyster King"—the firm continues to operate as a family-owned business and ranks among the top oyster producers in Virginia.
This company offers a variety of oyster products, including freshly shucked Chesapeake oysters, oysters served on the half shell, as well as canned and jarred options. It holds the designation of Interstate Certified Shellfish Shipper. Additionally, Bevans provides two types of menhaden bait and serves prominent customers such as Ukrop's Food Group along with numerous dining establishments throughout the United States.
Bevans manages oyster cultivation sites located on the Yeocomico, Potomac, James, Rappahannock, and York Rivers. The company played a role in oyster reef restoration initiatives beginning in 2002. Its operations also encompass a seafood cannery and packaging plant that processes oysters harvested not only from local waterways but also from Long Island Sound, Kent Narrows, and Rock Hall. Furthermore, Bevans collaborates with the Commonwealth of Virginia on research projects aimed at promoting sustainable aquaculture methods.
Works
- Best Management Practices for the Virginia Shellfish Culture Industry, 2008