After a 35 year closure, our seven member volunteer commission was proud to have returned recreational shellfishing to the Town of Clinton in 2019. This achievement was made possible by providing frequent, year-round water samples to the Bureau of Aquaculture for about 12 years. The Bureau requires years of water quality data before an area can be safely opened for shellfishing. We collect water samples from our three rivers (Hammonasset, Indian, and Hammock), the inner and outer harbor, then out to Duck Island and the Westbrook line. We collect these samples at least once a month, year round, as long as it is safe enough for us to venture out in our small, flat-bottom boat.
We are now focused on opening additional recreational shellfishing areas. We are working closely with the Town to acquire a more seaworthy craft. This will allow us to collect water samples more safely, more frequently, and in varying weather and sea conditions. It will also allow us to better patrol a much larger area once we are able to expand.
To replenish the clams that are harvested by license holders, commission members restock the recreational areas by boat in the Fall and Spring. We purchase about 40,000 market-size clams for restocking each year. These clams aren’t just delicious and fun to catch, but as filter feeders, they clean our water too!
The Commission enjoys a strong relationship with Clinton schools. We participate every year in Marine Science Day at the Town Beach for our 4th graders where they learn how shellfish benefit our environment, and how we impact the shellfish. High school science students have worked closely with us performing population assessments, and shellfish related science projects.
Recreational shellfishing licenses, lanyards, and sizing rings are available at the Town Clerk’s Office in Town Hall, and online at clintonshellfish.org. Per state statute, all proceeds from the sale of licenses go right back to the Commission to maintain the health of the shellfish beds.