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Growers seek more intertidal oyster space; town reengaging DMF on wintering-over and year-round use
Summary
The board discussed oyster growers' request to open wintering areas for year-round intertidal use and staff reported reengagement with the state Division of Marine Fisheries; two existing intertidal leases noted and staff said they are pursuing equitable access if sites become available.
Advisory board members discussed requests from oyster growers to expand access to intertidal areas for oyster farming and to explore whether areas currently designated for wintering over could be used year-round within existing lease footprints.
Mr. Carlson summarized a growers' meeting where multiple growers agreed to pursue a request to the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF) to open a wintering-over area at Haulover for year-round use within existing leased subtidal areas. Staff said DMF asked the town to reengage and that the town had re-submitted information and would continue coordination; DMF responsiveness remained the gating factor.
Board members noted there are two existing intertidal leases in the identified area and that growers without leases would need to pursue permit and lease arrangements; the board emphasized a level playing field and asked staff to keep growers apprised if new sites become available.
Ending
Staff said they would continue to work with DMF on the request and notify the board when DMF provided guidance or decisions on year-round intertidal use or additional site availability.
