Shell recovery, frequent 2023 bed closures, town-by-town updates among other topics at Annual Gathering of Shellfish Commissions on Feb. 3.
Shellfish
Shellfishing history featured in videos on wampum, early industry
Two new additions to the Connecticut Aquaculture Video Series highlight master wampum maker Allen Hazard and Connecticut shellfishing history.
Sherwood Island Oysters featured in new aquaculture video
This week’s installment in the Connecticut Aquaculture Video Series focuses on Growing Oysters in Tidal Pond and features Jonathan Goldstein and the crew at Sherwood Island Oysters in Westport.
3rd series video features hybrid oyster aquaculture method
Connecticut Aquaculture Video Series continues with interview of Steve Plant, owner of Connecticut Cultured Oysters in Noank, explaining how he uses floating cages and bottom culture to grow shellfish.
Oyster hatchery focus of CT Aquaculture Video Series launch
A new Connecticut Aquaculture Video Series has been launched, starting with “Shellfish Hatchery 101.” A new video will be posted every two weeks this winter showcasing the state’s aquaculture industry.
Harmful algal blooms explained in new fact sheet
Learn the basics of harmful algal blooms and how they can affect shellfish in the new fact sheet, “Harmful Algal Blooms and Shellfish in Marine Environments in Connecticut.”
Registration open for 2024 shellfish farming course
Foundations of Shellfish Farming is a training course for new and prospective farmers and those who simply seek to learn more about aquaculture practices and techniques. It will meet on Tuesdays from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. from Jan. 16 to April 2 at UConn Avery Point. Financial aid is available.
Federal funds will enhance aquaculture education, kelp farming
Two federal grants totaling almost $600,000 will help launch two initiatives considered crucial to the long-term viability of the state’s aquaculture industry. The grants will fund a two-year project to assess aquaculture workforce development needs and a mobile lab to support the seaweed industry.
New video documents habitat services of oyster cages
Researchers at the NEFSC Milford Lab investigate shellfish growers’ reports that aquaculture gear attracts fish. Using GoPro cameras and eDNA analysis, they found that the cages provide critical habitat for a variety of fish at all life stages. A video of the project is now available.
Value of oysters to LIS highlighted in public radio show
The Connecticut Public Radio show “The Wheelhouse,” featured CT Sea Grant’s Tessa Getchis talking about the economic and environmental importance of oysters in Long Island Sound, as well as the shellfish restoration plan and the shell recycling initiative.