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Town of Mashpee Shellfish Commission <br /> : z 16 Great Neck Road North <br /> Mashpee, MA 02649 <br /> Terminology and Formatting Updates <br /> Returning to document review, the Mr. Christensen pointed out that all references to the "Board of <br /> Selectmen" should be replaced with "Select Board." Constable Avis acknowledged this and stated <br /> that he would seek a legal opinion. <br /> Species Regulations—Eels <br /> The committee next discussed specific rule revisions beginning with eels. Mr. Cook proposed <br /> increasing the allowable daily harvest limit from five to twenty-five eels per day, or fifty per week, <br /> while simultaneously reducing the number of traps permitted from ten to three. He reasoned that the <br /> current rules are too restrictive for personal use yet inadvertently encourage over-trapping since <br /> individuals set more gear to meet their small limit. <br /> Constable Avis supported this balanced approach, noting that three traps are sufficient for recreational <br /> diggers while still discouraging commercial-scale activity without a license. The Chairman <br /> commented that the revision strikes a good compromise—limiting effort while allowing reasonable <br /> take for consumption. <br /> Species Regulations— Scallops <br /> Regarding sea scallops, Mr. Cook observed that the species no longer occurs in any practical number <br /> within Mashpee waters and that references to them in the regulations are outdated. He recommended <br /> removing all language related to sea scallops to avoid confusion. The committee unanimously agreed <br /> with this change. <br /> Permit Display Requirements and Enforcement <br /> The next discussion focused on the requirement that shellfish permits be"visibly displayed at all <br /> times." It was explained that enforcement officers often encounter situations where diggers, <br /> especially during summer, don't have a practical way to display their permits—such as when wearing <br /> swimsuits or waders. In some cases, permits are left on boats or in vehicles, creating timely checks. <br /> Constable Avis suggested a solution that his office had been brainstorming about: issuing lanyards <br /> with waterproof sleeves, similar to those used at conferences or events. This would allow diggers to <br /> wear their permits around their necks or attach them to gear for easy visibility. His office has been <br /> researching inexpensive bulk options to include with next season's permits. <br /> It was emphasized that a visible display not only simplifies enforcement but also promotes fairness. It <br /> was noted that neighboring towns like Barnstable already use laminated, brightly colored tags. <br /> Constable Avis stated that his personal permit is a picture on his phone and that is an acceptable form <br /> of identification. <br /> The committee agreed this was worth exploring further, and Constable Avis stated that he would <br /> bring sample designs to a future meeting. He also suggested coordinating with the Town Clerk's <br /> office to include lanyards when mailing or issuing permits in person. <br /> 3 <br />