Join us for the second event of virtual Shellfish Focus Day, sponsored by Maine Sea Grant and the Maine Fishermen’s Forum. What’s changing on the mudflats?: Collecting knowledge and data about changing clam flats. During this event, we will hear from shellfish harvesters, researchers, and municipal marine resource committee members about what they are observing on the flats and their various efforts to survey and monitor wild shellfish populations. Panelists will discuss current efforts to collect knowledge and data on the clam flats, including new shellfish survey techniques in the Damariscotta River that use local ecological knowledge and mapping; development of a standard protocol for an ecosystem survey in the intertidal that incorporates predators; and even the feasibility of using environmental DNA (e-DNA) technology to collect information.

Panelists: Bailey Bowden, Harvester and Chair of the Penobscot Shellfish Conservation Committee; Nate Orff, Harvester and Chair of the Scarborough Shellfish Conservation Commission; Joanie Mcdonald, Harvester and Shellfish Advisory Council member, George’s River; Kevin Oliver, Harvester and member of the Yarmouth Shellfish Conservation Commission; Denis Nault, Maine DMR; Marissa McMahan, Manomet; Sara Randall, Downeast Institute; and Sarah Risley, University of Maine Darling Marine Center.

How to join: Join by computer using this Zoom link.

Join by phone: (301) 715-8592 and then enter the Meeting ID: 893 3297 5035 and Passcode: 116603