09/09/2025 SHELLFISH COMMISSION Minutes (2)

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Town of Mashpee Shellfish Commission 16 Great Neck Road North Mashpee,MA 02649 mortality. This suggests that the modifications to both gear and placement strategies are paying off. If conditions continue to hold, the town should see not only a stable season but also a longer one. The Commission agreed that the current condition of the oyster stock represents a positive outcome for both the town's economy and its residents, many of whom rely on shell fishing as either a livelihood or a valued tradition. With improved gear, strong stock health, and proactive management, the outlook for oysters in Mashpee this year is highly favorable. uaho s: Constable Avis highlighted quahogs as a particular success story this year, describing it as one of the most robust growth seasons in recent memory. The department will distribute approximately 3.5 million seed quahogs across multiple planting sites. A key factor in its success will be the department's strategic adjustment of cage densities. By lowering the number of quahogs per cage, each individual cage has more space to filter-feed efficiently, access adequate water flow, and reduce competition for resources. This deliberate spacing not only will promote faster growth but will also decrease stress and reduces mortality rates, ensuring a healthier and more uniform stock. In addition, the department has maintained a rigorous cleaning schedule for the cages, which is critical to quahog health. He emphasized that consistent, hands-on management like this is essential to supporting high growth rates and preventing losses. Another contributing factor has been the naturally rich food supply present in Mashpee's waters this season. Constable Avis noted that quahogs are displaying uniform size and healthy shell development, which bodes well for both short-term harvest and long-term sustainability of the population. He described the quahog program this year as a model of successful aquaculture management. With continued monitoring and strategic care, the town can expect a productive season and a strong foundation for future shellfish propagation efforts. Constable Avis explained that multiple restoration initiatives are underway. For oysters, all required permits have already been secured. Quahogs are scheduled for late October or early November. He also announced that Mashpee has been selected to host an AmeriCorps aquaculture training day on September 21. This event will bring in AmeriCorps members from across the region for hands-on training in shellfish propagation techniques. It provides an opportunity to highlight Mashpee's work while also strengthening partnerships with regional aquaculture programs. It was noted that this as an important recognition of the town's leadership in shellfish restoration. Enforcement and Public Interaction Constable Avis reported that enforcement efforts remain an essential focus, particularly given the strong interest in recreational shell fishing. The department has been concentrating patrols at Seconsett Island Causeway and Popponesset Bay, which are among the most heavily used areas. While activity has been high, violations have been relatively few. Most issues involve minor infractions, such as harvesting slightly undersized shellfish or exceeding limits by small amounts. These have been resolved through on- the-spot education, with officers explaining the rules and the reasons behind them. He stressed that the goal is not to penalize residents but to build understanding of sustainable practices so the resource remains viable for everyone. He also emphasized the value of being visible and approachable in the community. This outreach has helped reduce conflicts and has made enforcement smoother. Also noted 3