Shellfish Subcommittee backs Massachusetts Oyster Project expansion.

Shellfish Subcommittee to the Select Board · Meeting of March 5, 2026

IPSWICH — Shellfish Subcommittee unanimously backs Massachusetts Oyster Project's 2026 expansion. Chairperson Linda Alexson and Constable Matt Bodwell led the vote to recommend approval of planting 150,000 additional oysters, building on the successful establishment of 285,000 oysters in the prior year. The Select Board reduced the 2026 commercial permit fee from $400 to $300 for one year to offset hardship among clammers caused by Middle Ground and river flats closures.

Bodwell reported 67 applicants for commercial licenses and indicated potential flats reopening by November 2027 following three successful water tests and collaboration with Wastewater Director Vickie Halmen to resolve seagull congregation pollution concerns.

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• The complete report — 372 words

Source: the Shellfish Subcommittee to the Select Board meeting of March 5, 2026, reported from the official video recording and transcript.