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New Seasonal Closures and Re ug latory Updates <br /> o New closures under seasonal state regulations; maps are available online <br /> o FDA sampled two samples, spurring closures <br /> o Previous years also saw closures due to contamination; the affected areas are generally <br /> unsuitable for shell fishing due to muddy bottons <br /> o All closures are seasonal and not permanent <br /> Staffing and Recruitment Efforts: <br /> Mr. Avis attended the career fair at Mass Maritime Academy: <br /> o Impressed with the dedication of the students <br /> o One gentleman is going to the harbor side as an Assistant Harbor Master <br /> o Mr. Avis is interviewing another gentleman on 05.14.2025 for a staff position; he has a <br /> marine biology background <br /> Bird Deterrence Concerns: <br /> Mr. Avis met with the growers on Friday May 8, 2025, and brought up the DMF (Division of <br /> Marine Fisheries)regarding bird parasite and bird deterrence. <br /> • DMF focusing statewide on improving bird deterrence for floating gear due to <br /> contamination incidents traced back to birds/bird parasites <br /> • FDA increasing scrutiny; zip ties (common deterrent) deemed insufficient but no <br /> official new guidance <br /> • Discussed various deterrents (flags,bites, shiny pinwheels) <br /> • Current action: Enhancing zip ties on floating cages; using a monofilament system to <br /> deter birds <br /> • Emphasis on proactive responses from growers—try new measures if birds are <br /> observed <br /> • No differentiation currently between seed oysters and market-ready oysters regarding <br /> bird deterrence <br /> Water Quality & Environmental Challenges <br /> • Noted red tide and other events causing water shutdowns in areas like Orleans and <br /> Chatham <br /> • Docks and boats are being cleaned, pressure-washed and maintained <br /> • Upweller tanks are activated; pumps and cleaning tools installed to streamline <br /> maintenance <br /> Kelp Cultivation Progress <br /> • Kelp growth on Thatch Island reached up to six (6) feet in areas— deemed a success <br /> • Mixed results in shallower waters due to ice movement <br /> • Flow meters in place to monitor water; observed strong kelp growth in Falmouth Harbor <br /> as well <br /> • Disposal options for mature kelp; transfer station or public drop-off <br /> 5 <br />