Shellfish board reviews regulations, reopening plans remain uncertain
Ipswich Shellfish Advisory Subcommittee reviews regulations and confirms Middle Ground closure continues. Chairperson Linda Alexson reported the Division of Marine Fisheries rejected the town's request for immediate reopening, requiring 15 months of consecutive clean testing under NSSP standards; a
Shellfish Subcommittee to the Select Board · Meeting of May 5, 2026
Ipswich Shellfish Advisory Subcommittee reviews regulations and confirms Middle Ground closure continues. Chairperson Linda Alexson reported the Division of Marine Fisheries rejected the town's request for immediate reopening, requiring 15 months of consecutive clean testing under NSSP standards; a fall 2026 reopening is possible if the town proves seagulls caused pollution and Agresource provides solutions. Shellfish Constable Matt Bodwell reported 74 or 75 permits sold and active clammers down to 12 per day.
The subcommittee revised regulations to add Shellfish Constable language to penalties, update Veterans website links, add "except Mitchell's Ground" to flats closure rules, and investigate online applications for out-of-state digging permits.
In the full story:
- The complete report — 357 words
Source: the Shellfish Subcommittee to the Select Board meeting of May 5, 2026, compiled from the official minutes.
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