Shellfishery Management and Enforcement

Natural History

Shellfish resources in the Town of Barnstable have ecological, commercial, and recreational importance. Oysters, quahogs, softshell clams, mussels, and other bivalve species filter our coastal waters to remove algae, cleaning up the water. They also provide food for other marine animals and harvestable product to our commercial shellfishing industry. Recreational harvest of shellfish in Barnstable has been a treasured past time for Cape Cod residents and visitors for hundreds of years. The Town of Barnstable Natural Resources team is responsible for sustainable management of this vital marine resource.

Shellfish Species we propagate in Barnstable:

 

Other species you might find in Barnstable

Some useful links for safely storing and consuming your shellfish catch can be found here and here

Please remember to check the latest information about shellfishing areas, closures, seasons, and updates by visiting our shellfishing webpage, and enjoy our shellfish resources responsibly !**

The Natural Resources Department also offers clamming class for kids in the early summer. Check the website and shellfish information kiosks at town landings for updates! 

“Know where to go and how to shellfish!”

“Please keep yourself up to date with the latest shellfish area closures and openings. Be on the lookout for signs and buoys designating shellfish closures, and updated maps on our shellfish kioks when you plan to harvest shellfish in Barnstable.  It is not safe to eat shellfish from areas closed due to poor water quality and it is illegal to harvest shellfish from within aquaculture lease sites and town propagation projects.  Current shellfish area closures.

Please enjoy these Learn to Shellfish videos!:

1. Getting Started
2. Digging Steamers
3. Digging Quahogs
4. Gear and Safety
5. Harvesting Oysters