Florida might shut down bay known nationally for its oysters The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is scheduled to vote on the closure Wednesday during a virtual meeting. Author: Brendan Farrington The Associated Press Published: 8:02 AM EST December 16, 2020 Updated: 12:22 PM EST December 16, 2020 TALLAHASSEE, Fla — Because of a dwindling oyster population, a Florida agency is expected to shut down oyster harvesting in Apalachicola Bay through the end of 2025, dealing a blow to an area that historically produced 90% of the state's oysters and 10% of the nation's. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is scheduled to vote on the closure Wednesday during a virtual meeting. People in the area are divided between coming up with a long-term plan to save the industry, and allowing it to continue on a limited basis.