Summit of Municipal Shellfish Commissions

Waldoboro Town Hall Thursday, September 29, 2010

You are invited to a summit of Maine’s Municipal Shellfish Commissions to begin the process of modernizing Maine’s municipal shellfish programs, sharing information that will lead to better shellfish management, and protection of shellfish resources.

While each program faces different challenges, there are many ways that Maine’s municipal shellfish programs can coordinate their efforts and resources to help preserve our unique coastal traditions and environment.

Moderator: Chad Coffin 5:00 - 5:30 p.m.

Clam Chowder Mix and Mingle 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.

Roundtable discussion with Shellfish Commission Representatives Agenda

1. How can Maine’s Municipal Shellfish Commissions cooperate efficiently and share information?

2. Are there ways to improve working relationship with DMR area biologists?

3. How does pollution abatement relate to classification of growing areas?

4. What is the role of municipal wardens and how can we support them?

5. Why are public relations in your community important and how can you engage the public?

6. How can we work with our town councils and boards of selectmen to manage our shellfish resources?

Maine Clammer’s Association Members Meeting 7:10 – 8:00 p.m.

1. Nomination of Melissa Melvin, of Waldoboro, and Brian Beal, of Machias, to the Maine Clammer’s Association Board of Directors

2. Treasurer’s Report

3. Public Outreach Events / Santa Fund Update

4. Education Program / Strategies to interact with local schools

5. Research and development / Prioritizing State and Federal research to deal with shellfish predator and pollution issues

6. Open discussion for members