09/30/1996 BOARD OF SELECTMEN Minutes

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Punkhorn Point { On Popponessett Bay, not far from where the Mashpee River joins ; the Bay, is Punkhom Point and Goosebury Island This is the port for the Wampanoag shell fishermen. Over the years, this bay has provided sustenance and recreation for the Wampanoag people. This tidal bay has two tides a day which provides a good environment for the fish in the bay. The Wampanoags have a five acre shellfish grant which allows them exclusive right to harvest the shellfish grown in that grant area. The Tribe has an aqua farming program in which they grow quahogs, clams, oysters and mussels. When harvested, they are used by the Wampanoags to supplement their food supply. There are plans to begin commercial operations to sell the product to restaurants and fish markets. Canoe rentals or guided canoe tours will be available from Punkhom Point where visitors may investigate the many inlets and coves of the Bay. Popponessett Beach on the Atlantic Ocean provides an excellent view of Marthas Vinyard and on a clear day one can see Nantucket from the high point of the Beach. Conclusion This vision of the Mashpee Historic District will provide visitors an historic overview of a unique group of people who have survived the 1 colonial period and up to present times. The Wampanoags have retained their identity as descendants of the first owners of the land. It is interesting that they still live on the very same land as their ancestors even after 376 years. They have a story to tell which will be of interest to many people. A collaboration of many groups which include Federal, State, local governments and the Wampanoag Tribe can make this a reality. The Mashpee Wampanoag Indian Tribal Council, Inc. is the administrative arm of the the Tribe and would assume the responsibility of coordinating the activities related to the Mashpee Historic District. Much appreciation is given to the Department of Environmental Management for making this presentation possible. I