06/06/2022 SELECT BOARD Minutes (2)

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E Mashpee Select Board Minutes June 6, 2022 APPOINTMENTS & HEARINGS Discussion mandrtAproval of.ResearchrvProect_with Aquaculture ResearchwCoroorationmARC ),-,_Natural Resources wDeot.w The Select Board met with Shellfish Constable Donovan McElligatt to review a proposed joint Aquaculture research project which would consist of one floating upweller nursery (FLUPSY) in Hamblin Pond to test the efficacy of Mashpee waters in growing seed. Richard Sawyer, President of the Aquaculture Research Corporation (ARC) was also present to discuss the proposed public/private exploration of the viability of a solar -powered FLUPSY in Hamblin Pond to review the feasibility of using Mashpee waters as a future commercial shellfish nursery in 2022. The ARC is one of the largest shellfish hatcheries in New England. At their Dennis facility they spawn hundreds of millions of oysters and clams each year. In addition to having a shellfish nursery in the Town of Dennis, hatcheries are located in the Towns of Harwich and Chatham. The FLUPSY is a floating nursery that looks similar to a dock. Under the 20'x24' dock, containers house shellfish which are allowed to grow using the natural nutrients found in ocean water while they are protected from predators. The 2022 growing season will be used to test the success of growing several species of shellfish as well as various procedures of care. It is anticipated that two moorings in Hamblin Pond would be used to anchor the solar powered FLUPSY. The cost to the Town of Mashpee is minimal, and all necessary permits are in place or in the process of being obtained. At the end of the season data will be submitted to the Mashpee Shellfish Department outlining the results of the 2022 test. ARC will hold harmless the Town of Mashpee for damage to the FLUPSY and mortality of the shellfish. If the project is successful other satellite stations would be sought. Motion made by Selectman O'Hara to approve the collaborative research project between the Town of Mashpee and the Aquaculture Research Corporation. Motion seconded by Selectman Cotton. VOTE: 4-0-1. Roll Call Vote: Selectman Gottlieb, abstained Selectman Weeden, yes Selectman Cotton, yes Selectman O'Hara, yes Selectman Sherman, yes Opposed, none Selectman Gottlieb recused himself as he holds a professional relationship with ARC.