Aquaculture, Commercial, and Recreational Shellfish Activity in Duxbury

Oyster Farming plays a vital role in Duxbury Bay water quality.

It’s not simply about industry, there are numerous benefits and impacts of oyster aquaculture on the health and quality of Duxbury Bay.  Oysters help to filter the water, feeding on algae and nutrients and helping to prevent buildup of dangerous nitrogen and phosphorus levels impacted by fertilizer use from land runoff.

And while oysters provide numerous benefits positively impacting water quality, they, too are at risk to other factors like pollution; PFAS and other chemical contaminants that find their way into the Bay.

Oyster Aquaculture Benefits and Impacts

Water Quality Improvement

Oysters play the following roles in improving water quality:

  1. Filter Feeders — Oysters are remarkable filter feeders. They can filter up to 50 gallons of water a day by pumping water through their bodies, effectively removing algae and nutrients. This natural filtration process helps clean coastal waters in Duxbury Bay, leading to improved water quality 1.
  2. Algae Control — By consuming algae, oysters prevent algal blooms, which can otherwise harm marine ecosystems and deplete oxygen levels in the water.
  3. Nutrient Removal — Oysters extract excess nutrients (such as nitrogen and phosphorus) from the water, reducing nutrient pollution and promoting a healthier bay ecosystem.

Economic and Livelihood Benefits

    1. Local Economy — The oyster farming industry in Duxbury employs over 100 local residents full-time, year-round. It plays a significant role in the coastal economy 2.
    2. Sustainable Livelihoods — Oyster farming provides livelihoods for shellfish farmers, supporting families and communities. Despite challenges (such as revenue losses during the pandemic), oyster farming remains a vital economic activity.

CO2 Sequestration through Oyster Shell Growth

    1. Calcium Carbonate Formation — Oysters build their shells using calcium carbonate. As they grow, they extract dissolved carbon dioxide (CO2) from the water and convert it into solid shell material.
    2. Carbon Sink — Oyster shells act as a carbon sink, sequestering CO2 from the atmosphere. By promoting oyster growth and reef restoration, we indirectly contribute to mitigating climate change.
In summary, oyster aquaculture in Duxbury not only supports local livelihoods but also enhances water quality, biodiversity, and coastal resilience. These humble bivalves play a vital role in maintaining the health of Duxbury Bay and its surrounding environment.

Commercial Shellfish Activity

In addition to the oyster industry in Duxbury, there are active commercial shellfish industries operating in Duxbury Bay for soft shelled clams, quahogs, razor clams and mussels. In 2024, there are approximately 20 commercial shellfish licenses issued by the town of Duxbury.

 

The Duxbury Harbormaster Department is the lead agency responsible for maritime enforcement and public safety in the waterways of the Town of Duxbury. Their duties include shellfish management and enforcement, among other responsibilities. If you have specific inquiries or need assistance related to commercial shellfish licenses, you can reach out to the Harbormaster/Shellfish Constable. Additionally, the Duxbury Town Hall is another resource where you can obtain information about permits and licensing.

Recreational Shellfish Activity

In Duxbury, Massachusetts, recreational shellfish permits are required for people over the age of 14 to dig anywhere. These permits allow individuals to engage in shellfishing activities. You must have a license to harvest shellfish in Duxbury Bay, which can be purchased at the Duxbury Town Hall, located at 878 Tremont Street. In Duxbury, hundreds of Duxbury residents annually purchase recreational shellfish permits.

 

Remember that shellfish may be taken from sunrise to sunset, and digging must be done by hand using conventional tined tools (no shovels allowed). Additionally, there are restrictions on shellfishing activities on Sundays from June 1 to September 11. If you need more information, feel free to reach out to the Duxbury Town Clerk

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