Shellfish Sanitation and Management

Learn about how shellfish is managed in Massachusetts.

Shellfish have been a longstanding staple in many Massachusetts homes. Whether steamed or raw, clams or oysters, it's DMF's mission to ensure all shellfish are safe for you to eat. We accomplish this through public health protection and management of shellfish resources.

DMF regularly samples shellfish areas for possible contaminants. We also manage the shellfish resource through permitting of commercial fisheries, contaminated shellfish and aquaculture, developing regulations, and assisting local towns and cities.

Whether you are a shellfish harvester, processor, or just love to eat shellfish, we're here to help!

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