New Hampshire Shellfish Program

In the State of New Hampshire, the management of shellfish sanitation, harvesting, and resource health is divided among three state agencies. DES is responsible for determining which growing areas are safe, and which are unsafe, for human consumption. The Fish and Game Department is responsible for issuing harvesting licenses, managing the shellfish resources, and enforcing the open/closed decisions made by DES.

The Department of Health of Human Services regulates various aspects of the commercial shellfish industry, including shucking, packing, shipping, etc. DES works closely not only with FandG and DHHS, but also with a number of other organizations including the NH Coastal Program, the NH Estuaries Project, the University of New Hampshire/Jackson Estuarine Laboratory, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the Great Bay Coast Watch.

DES has also formed partnerships with the private sector, including FPL Energy Seabrook Station and the Isles of Shoals Steamship Company. Harvesting Regulations How to Dig Softshell Clams How to Help Improve Oyster Beds Open/Closed Areas Tide Charts Weekly Open/Closed Status Monitoring Programs -Bacteria -PSP/Red Tide -GulfWatch -Pollution Sources Maps: Open/Closed Areas