Shellfishing Area Restrictions and Closures – Effective March 11
The Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries has issued a precautionary closure for the entirety of the Namequoit River system in Pleasant Bay, including Meetinghouse Pond, Lonnie’s Pond, and Arey’s Pond, due to the presence of Red Tide. Shellfish samples have been sent for laboratory testing, and the area will be reopened as soon as conditions are deemed safe.
Additional shellfishing restrictions are currently in place across Nauset Estuary, Pleasant Bay, and Cape Cod Bay. Some locations are closed to shellfishing, while others are limited to Family Permit holders only, including designated areas of Town Cove, Asa’s Landing, and Mill Pond.
Areas currently closed include:
The Namequoit River system in Pleasant Bay due to Red Tide.
Paw Wah Pond and the entrance creek.
Pochet Creek, north of the posted boundary line.
Portions of Rock Harbor, Namskaket Creek, and Little Namskaket Creek inside the lines drawn across their mouths.
A small area surrounding the drainage pipe at the Goose Hummock bulkhead in Nauset Estuary.
Designated areas of Town Cove, Asa’s Landing, Mill Pond, and Quanset Pond remain open for Family Permit holders only, with the Town Cove “Yacht Club Family Area” open Wednesdays and Sundays only.
Shellfish harvesters are reminded that any areas not specifically identified as closed remain open, but conditions can change quickly. Residents and permit holders should check the most current shellfishing map and closure information before harvesting each time.
The full notice and updated map are available on the Town of Orleans website: orleansma.gov/435/Shellfish