Proposed Regulations for Commercial Surf Clam and Ocean Quahog Dredge Fishery

The Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF) is proposing updates to regulations for the commercial surf clam and ocean quahog dredge fishery, outlined in 322 CMR 4.00, 6.00, and 7.00. Key proposals include replacing contour line closures with mapped polygons that incorporate a buffer zone around eelgrass beds, maintaining existing closures, extending closures in certain areas, and establishing new closures. The DMF also plans to require electronic vessel tracking by January 1, 2027, and adjust night closure exemptions. The regulations aim to modernize management, protect habitats, and improve readability. Written public comments will be accepted until 5 PM on Friday, June 12, 2026, and should be emailed to marine.fish@mass.gov, attention Director McKiernan. A virtual public hearing will be held on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at 6 PM. Registration for the hearing can be completed at https://shorturl.at/4QafJ. Further details are available on the DMF's proposed regulations website.