10/14/2025 SHELLFISH COMMISSION Minutes

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Town of Mashpee Shellfish Commission : z 16 Great Neck Road North Mashpee,MA 02649 Three key proposed adjustments were discussed: 1. Permit Renewal Dates—First, Constable Avis proposed that commercial and aquaculture permits should renew annually on January 1st rather than following the current March 31 st schedule. This change,he explained, would align renewals more closely with the start of the shell fishing season and simplify administrative tracking. Recreational permits would remain on the March 31 st renewal cycle since that date fits better with springtime recreational activity. 2. Transferability of Aquaculture Permits— Second, Constable Avis recommended clarifying language about the transferability of aquaculture licenses. He proposed removing the word "transferable"from the town's rules to prevent private transfers of shellfish grants between individuals (excluding family members who are Mashpee residents). Instead, when a grower leaves or gives up a site, that location would revert to the town and could then be reassigned through an open, transparent process. Mr. Cook raised a concern that M.G.L. c. 130 explicitly states aquaculture licenses are transferable, suggesting that the town may not have authority to override this. Constable Avis agreed to seek legal clarification before any final change. The Chairman supported obtaining a legal opinion to reconcile local intent with state law. 3. Fee Structure and Two-Week Permits— Third, Constable Avis then introduced a new two- week recreational shell fishing permit option,priced at$35. He explained that this would primarily serve seasonal visitors, summer renters, and short-term residents who want to dig legally without purchasing a full-season license. He noted that several neighboring towns including Barnstable, Dennis, and Falmouth—already offer similar short-term options, which have proven popular. The Chairman supported the idea, saying it could both generate modest revenue and promote compliance. Mr. Cook stated that a sign would be helpful. Mr. Pfundstein remarked that this might help reduce unlicensed shell fishing by tourists who often dig without realizing they need a permit. It was added that enforcement officers frequently encounter visitors who claim they were unaware of the rule. The short-term permit, combined with better signage, could address this issue proactively. It has been observed that visitors tend to see shell fishing as a cultural activity rather than a regulated one. Posting signs at common access points such as Seconsett Island, could help educate the public. The Chairman also pointed out that at $35, the two-week permit represents excellent value, particularly given that a digger could easily harvest more than that in shellfish during a few good tides. The committee reviewed the current fee schedule in comparison with surrounding towns. Constable Avis shared that Mashpee remains among the most affordable municipalities for shellfish permits, particularly for residents. Modest fee increases were proposed for 2025. The senior recreational permit would rise slightly—from $5 to either $7.50 or$10—while veterans would continue to receive free permits. The consensus among committee members was that maintaining a nominal fee helps offset costs while preserving the sense of value associated with the privilege of harvesting. The Chairman, noting that"even a small fee encourages responsibility and respect for the resource." 2