Cape Cod Oyster Company seeks to switch from bottom cages to floating culture; commission continues for DEP file number

David Ryan, president of Cape Cod Oyster Company, told the Falmouth Conservation Commission Dec. 11 he seeks to change the aquaculture method at two McGannsett Harbor sites from bottom cages to a floating culture system (Flip Farm), explaining floating gear reduces biofouling by allowing baskets to be rotated and sun‑dried and describing anchoring experience at other local sites. Ryan said he had recently acquired culture licenses from the previous operator and submitted required materials to town staff and state agencies.

Staff told the commission the application had been received by DEP (filed Nov. 29) but the project still needed a DEP file number. Commissioners and staff recommended continuing the hearing briefly so DEP can issue a number and staff can circulate Ryan's presentation video/slides to the commission for review. Commissioners who spoke welcomed the floating method for potential ecological benefits and had practical questions about anchoring and visual impacts. Ryan asked staff to incorporate any abutter letters received by the select board into the commission record.

The commission agreed to continue the item to the next meeting (Jan. 8) if a DEP file number could be obtained sooner; otherwise the item will appear again at the earliest available meeting, and staff will forward the applicant's presentation to commissioners ahead of the continued hearing.