Aquaculture

Welcome to the Bureau of Aquaculture!

State lead on shellfish (oysters, clams, mussels, and whole or roe-on scallops)
Coordinates activities of other state agencies with regard to shellfish
Acts as a liaison on shellfish matters between state and municipalities
Takes steps necessary to ensure compliance with federal standards for the shellfish sanitation program to allow certified harvesters to ship shellfish in interstate commerce
Supports a commercial shellfish industry with over $14 million in annual sales and recreational shellfishing areas that contribute over $1.6 million annually
Classifies all shellfish growing areas to ensure areas meet established water quality standards
Lead on aquaculture development
Leases shellfish grounds

Licenses

Learn how to apply for shellfishing commercial licenses, municipal licenses, research licenses, and more.

Staff and contact information

View phone numbers and email addresses for Bureau staff.

Aquaculture news

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

General Information

Learn more about the state shellfish sanitation program, growing area classifications, bed types, and the environmental benefits of shellfish and aquaculture.

Commercial Shellfishing

Learn more about the economic impact of the commercial shellfish industry.

The below resources are for shellfish harvesters:

Recreational Shellfishing

Learn about recreational shellfishing areas, permit requirements, and regulations. Not all towns have recreational shellfishing areas. Recreational areas are subject to temporary closures.

Natural Oyster Beds and Shell Recycling

Oysters in Connecticut continue to naturally recruit on natural oyster seed beds. Restoration and rehabilitation of these beds and associated shell recycling and recovery efforts are critical to support viable oyster populations.

Aquaculture

The following links provide information about aquaculture permitting, operational plans, and inland finfish and seaweed aquaculture.

Report illegal harvesting

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

Monitoring Oyster Diseases

The Bureau has monitored for diseases that affect oyster health and implemented policies to promote healthy populations since 1997. As part of these efforts, the Bureau has a strict shellfish importation policy to reduce the likelihood of disease introduction and spread.

Classification Changes and Administrative Closures

Classification changes and administrative closures are posted in real-time.

Shellfish Commission Guidance

This guidance is specifically for members of municipal shellfish commissions.

Shellfish Commission Guidance

Vibrio and HABs

Vibrio bacteria and harmful algal blooms (HABs) are naturally occurring in coastal waters and have the potential to human illness. The Bureau routinely monitors for these organisms to protect shellfish consumers.