From Sea to Pint: RWU’s CEED Partners With Trágmar Ale Works on Ferrycliffe Oyster Stout

October 27, 2026By Kelly Brinza

The idea began when CEED approached Trágmar about a potential collaboration. CEED supplied the oysters, while the brewery brought the craft beer expertise.

BRISTOL, R.I. - Oysters grown at Roger Williams University's Ferrycliffe Shellfish Farm are taking on a new role in a collaboration with award-winning Trágmar Ale Works, where they are a key ingredient in the limited-edition Ferrycliffe Oyster Stout.

The partnership brings together RWU's Center for Economic and Environmental Development (CEED) and the Bristol-based brewery to celebrate Rhode Island's shellfish industry and connect more people with the state's coastal resources.

Oysters grown at Roger Williams University's Ferrycliffe Shellfish Farm are a key ingredient in the limited-edition Ferrycliffe Oyster Stout by Trágmar Ale Works in Bristol, R.i.

The idea began when CEED approached Trágmar about a potential collaboration. Interested in brewing an oyster stout, Trágmar's owners jumped at the opportunity. CEED supplied the oysters, while the brewery brought the expertise to create a distinctive craft beer.

"This collaboration is a great example of how research, education, and local industry can come together to support Rhode Island's blue economy," said Koty Sharp, CEED Director and Associate Professor of Biology, Marine Biology and Environmental Science at RWU. "By partnering with Trágmar Ale Works, we're showcasing the value of local aquaculture and helping people connect with the shellfish and ecosystems right here in our waters."

"For us, brewing has always been about more than what's in the glass - it's about building a community that extends beyond the walls of the brewery," said Co-Owner and Brewer Mike Godet. "Partnering with RWU's CEED was a natural fit because it connects us with the people and local industries that make Rhode Island special."

The collaboration offers another way to raise awareness of local aquaculture while bringing together marine science and Rhode Island's craft brewing industry.

CEED has operated and maintained the Ferrycliffe Shellfish Farm on RWU's Bristol campus since 2010. The working aquaculture farm supports research, education and training, outreach, and shellfish restoration. Through field research and partnerships with local shellfish farmers, CEED helps advance shellfish cultivation while giving students practical experience across the industry.

The oyster stout collaboration offers another way to share that work with the community, raising awareness of local aquaculture while bringing together marine science and Rhode Island's craft brewing industry.

"This collaboration is a chance to bring people together around something unique while celebrating our coastal community and the people working to sustain it," said Co-Owner Chris Kerr. "By combining local oysters with craft brewing, we're highlighting what makes Rhode Island special and creating new connections between the brewery and the community around us."

A portion of the proceeds from Oyster Stout sales will support RWU's CEED program.

The partnership culminated in a well-attended release party at Trágmar Ale Works on Oct. 24. The event brought community members together to celebrate Rhode Island aquaculture and local brewing, with a food spread prepared by RWU Executive Chef Jonathan Cambra highlighting local coastal flavors.

A portion of the proceeds from Oyster Stout sales will support RWU's CEED program, helping fund its ongoing research, student learning opportunities, and efforts to advance sustainable shellfish aquaculture.

Cans of Ferrycliffe Oyster Stout remain available at Trágmar Ale Works while supplies last.