For decades, the Pamlico-Tar River Foundation has been the watchdog of the region’s rivers, educating the public about conservation and protecting the waterways’ health. But for nearly as many years, PTRF has also kicked off oyster-roast season with one big party: its annual fundraiser that brings in cash to help keep the riverkeeping organization financially buoyant.

Live music, dancing, oyster-shucking, chili-eating and a silent auction are all in store for the annual oyster roast to be held in the Washington Civic Center, and on its grounds, on Nov. 16.

For PTRF Executive Director Harrison Marks, the 28^th annual oyster marks his first one with the organization.

“Everything I’ve been told by people who have been there is that it’s the best party in the East,” Marks said.

This year marks an unusual year for PTRF, in that the nonprofit is currently embroiled in legal action against the state and Martin Marietta Materials, Inc. In September, PTRF, along with the North Carolina Coastal Federation and the Southern Environmental Law Center filed a legal challenge to the National Pollution Elimination System Discharge (NPDES) issued by the state to the company that plans to build a limestone mine in southern Beaufort County. According to many, the permit, which allows up to 12 million gallons of fresh water per day to be discharged into the headwaters of Blounts Creek, will devastate an area known as a primary nursery area for many saltwater species.

Marks said while the annual oyster roast is a fundraiser, and will ultimately help fund any legal action, the Martin Marietta suit will not be focus of the evening.

“I think the oyster roast if really more about celebrating the river and the bounty of the sound,” Marks said. “This is such a great tradition.”

The event begins at 6 p.m., with oysters served between 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Live music from the Raleigh-based party band Shine begins at 7:30 p.m. and local beer from Farmville’s Duck-Rabbit Craft Brewery will be served up with the chili and oysters.

“We’re keeping our fingers crossed for good weather. We’re looking at good chance that it won’t rain, that it will be just cold enough to be perfect oyster-roast weather,” Marks said.

Tickets are $50 for members, $60 for nonmembers, until Nov. 14. After Nov. 14, tickets are $65. They can be purchased by calling the PTRF office at 252-946-7211.