Aquaculture

Support for aquaculture and shellfishing in Connecticut

Connecticut has been producing fresh, high-quality seafood and shellfish since long before our state and country were founded. We’re determined to support this rich tradition.

The Department of Agriculture (DoAg) Bureau of Aquaculture oversees the production, harvest, and sale of aquatic plants and animals in Connecticut.

Check out all the resources we offer businesses and the general public:

Explore CT shellfish area classifications and maps  

Featured links

Aquaculture licenses and permits
Find forms and applications for aquaculture licenses. Learn how to apply for shellfishing licenses, municipal licenses, research licenses, and more.

Staff and contact information
Browse contact information for the Bureau of Aquaculture. View phone numbers and email addresses for current staff.

Aquaculture news
See recent news stories and videos about aquaculture and shellfishing in Connecticut.

Commercial shellfishing

Discover Connecticut’s exceptional shellfish industry

Our state’s shellfish industry is one of the most robust in the nation, with a reputation for outstanding quality and safety. According to recent data:

  • Connecticut shellfishing generated over $16 million in farm-gate sales in 2023.
  • The Connecticut shellfishing industry provides over 300 jobs statewide.
  • More than 61,000 acres of shellfish farms are now under cultivation in CT’s coastal waters.

The DoAg Bureau of Aquaculture manages shellfish industry operations in CT. The bureau works with town and local officials to monitor the growth, handling, harvest, and sale of all molluscan shellfish.

Looking for opportunities in the aquaculture industry?

Now is a great time to start an aquaculture business in Connecticut!

The DoAg Bureau of Aquaculture is responsible for running the shellfish sanitation program and regulating the shellfish industry for the entire Connecticut coastline. The Bureau has been working to expand and create opportunities for new companies.

Recreational shellfishing

Harvest oysters and clams in your town’s waters

Find guidance and resources for recreational shellfishing in Connecticut. Learn valuable information about how to properly harvest shellfish in CT waters, including:

  • Common shellfish species
  • Shellfish size and daily limit restrictions
  • Permit fees

To report illegal harvesting, call DEEP Dispatch toll-free at 800-842-HELP (800-842-4357).

Get more information about recreational shellfishing  

Shellfish handling and safety 

Find information and brochures on the safe handling, storage, and cooking of molluscan shellfish.

Recreational shellfish growing area contacts, hotlines, and maps 

Check the status of recreational shellfish beds by calling town hotlines or visiting their websites. Explore maps of recreational shellfish growing areas in CT coastal towns.

Shellfish Commission guidance  

DoAg works with municipal shellfish commissions to regulate shellfish growing areas. We offer guidance, test and establish growing areas, and manage mapping services for towns with shellfishing areas.

General CT shellfish information

Natural oyster seed beds 

Learn about CT’s natural oyster seed beds. These are areas where oysters naturally gather, creating an abundant source of seed.

Shellfish rehab and enhancement 

We work to restore habitats where shellfish naturally recruit. This helps to boost shellfish production and ecosystem services.

Shell recovery and recycling 

Learn about how DoAg rebuilds critical oyster habitats by recovering and “recycling” oyster shells.

Get to know CT aquaculture

Cultivating aquatic plants and animals

From growing shellfish in the Long Island Sound to freshwater tank farms, aquaculture thrives in Connecticut.

Contact us

Get in touch with Aquaculture and Laboratory Services

Address:
190 Rogers Avenue
Milford, CT 06460

Phone: 203-874-0696
Fax: 203-783-9976
Email: Agri.Aquaculture@ct.gov
Browse all aquaculture staff and contact information