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Fundamentals of Shellfish Farming

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The 2024 class is full.

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 2024 depending on availability of growers. 

2024 Schedule

(Class is held via Zoom from 7 - 8:15 pm)

January 22
January 29
February 5
February 12
February 26
March 4
March 11
March 18
March 25
April 1
April 1-15    Take Home Exam Time
Submit exam by 12PM on Monday April 15 

Note: NO Zoom class Feb 19 but reading/watching materials will be assigned 

Cost for the 10-week course is $75.00.  If cost is a concern please contact aarcher@capecod.gov for scholarship options. 

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.