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Fundamentals of Shellfish Farming

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Registration for the 2025 class is closed.

To be put on the waitlist for the next available class please email aarcher@capecod.gov.

This 10-week virtual interactive course will cover the basics of shellfish aquaculture with an emphasis on learning practical information. Students will be introduced to shellfish biology, hatchery & nursery production, field grow-out of oysters and clams, and safe shellfish handling and harvest practices. The course will also include materials on the management of predators, pests and diseases, as well as basic information on business management, permitting, and safety.

Staff from Cape Cod Cooperative Extension and Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Sea Grant will teach this course along with guest lectures from people who farm shellfish for a living and experts in particular fields such as shellfish diseases and permitting procedures.

Additional optional field trips may be offered later in 2025 depending on availability of growers.

 

Certificate

Students wishing to receive a certificate of successful completion of the course will take a final open-book exam. Certification will be issued by the Southeastern Massachusetts Aquaculture Center (SEMAC) Board of Directors to students with an exam score of 80% or better.

April 8-22: Take Home Exam Time   (Submit exam by 12PM on Tuesday April 22)

 

Cost

Cost for the 10-week course is $72.50 and depending on what method you use to pay, the total cost could be as high as $76.45 with transaction fees.  If cost is a concern please contact aarcher@capecod.gov for scholarship options.

 

This class focuses on the shellfish aquaculture industry in Massachusetts. Similar classes are offered in other states.