East Lyme Shellfish Commission Approves Fall Oyster Purchase For Niantic River

EAST LYME, CT — The Waterford-East Lyme Shellfish Commission voted July 16 to purchase $2,500 worth of oyster stock for planting in the Niantic River this fall while delaying the addition of clam stock until cooler water temperatures.

The commission approved purchasing the oyster stock from Niantic Bay Shellfish on a 6-1 vote, with Commissioner Rick Kanter opposed. Commissioner Patrick Kelly told members he had consulted several shellfish experts about the best time to replenish clam populations in the river. Based on that advice, the commission agreed to postpone adding clam stock until fall to avoid warmer summer water conditions.

Earlier in the meeting, Kelly presented the treasurer's report, which the commission approved unanimously. He also updated members on annual shellfish permit sales.

Warden Dave Simpson reported that wardens are current on water sampling activities. Simpson also said he has received a new Department of Agriculture/Bureau of Aquaculture rain gauge and is working to install it at his residence.

Commissioners also reviewed procedures for approving purchases needed to maintain the warden's patrol boat. Kelly said the commission's chair, vice chair and treasurer each have authority to approve expenditures of up to $750, and noted that the commission maintains a separate budget line for annual boat maintenance.

Chair Peter Harris updated members on recent correspondence, including notice that the Department of Agriculture's Bureau of Aquaculture had reopened the Niantic River following a recent shellfish harvesting closure. Harris also shared information from Connecticut Sea Grant regarding the hard clam life cycle, including spawning information.

During public comment, Kanter and Commissioner Paul Spakowski discussed potential candidates to fill the commission's vacant East Lyme seat. East Lyme ex-officio member Tony Attanasio reported no additional business.

The commission unanimously approved the minutes of its June 18 meeting after two members abstained because they had not attended. The meeting adjourned at 8:11 p.m.