The Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries (MarineFisheries) has received numerous reports of shellfish washing ashore in large quantities along Nantasket and Revere Beaches due to last weekend’s storm.  MarineFisheries is issuing this advisory to remind the public that Nantasket and Revere Beaches remain CLOSED TO SHELLFISHING due to bacterial contamination.

Shellfish in CLOSED or PROHIBITED areas are considered to be contaminated and not safe for human consumption. The harvest, collection or possession of shellfish from prohibited areas is unlawful per Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 130 section 74, 74A and 75.

Generally to harvest shellfish in the Commonwealth requires a state or local permit.  Before collecting or harvesting shellfish from any area MarineFisheries recommends you check with the local Shellfish Department and our website for permit requirements as well as the current area classification and status.

For further information, please contact the MarineFisheries Shellfish Project at:  978-282-0308 (Gloucester) or 508-990-2860 (New Bedford).