25,000 clams seeded in Great South Bay to revive shellfish population
Environmental advocates and shellfish farmers say the benefits extend beyond cleaner water.
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More than 25,000 adult clams were seeded into the Great South Bay this week as part of an ongoing effort to restore Long Island's declining shellfish population and improve local water quality.
Town of Oyster Bay officials said clams and oysters play a critical role in maintaining healthy waterways by naturally filtering pollutants and excess nutrients from the water.
“Each adult shellfish, clam or oyster, can filter approximately 50 gallons per day,” Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino said.
Monday’s adult clam seeding is part of a broader restoration initiative aimed at replenishing shellfish stocks in Long Island waters. The town also plants millions of juvenile shellfish each year to help rebuild local populations.
Environmental advocates and shellfish farmers say the benefits extend beyond cleaner water.
“It’s important for us to maintain the ecosystem,” said Raymond Smith, of Toasted Oysters. “Those clean waters help that light get through and help the seagrass populate, and that gives an environment for the fish and wildlife.”
Efforts to restore shellfish populations are underway on both the South Shore and North Shore of Long Island, supporting both environmental conservation and the region’s seafood industry.
“Which allows recreational clammers to go out and find clams, also allows the commercial harvesting of clams, which would then end up at the restaurants and on your table,” said Mike Miezianka, of Toasted Oysters.
Harvesters say the clams seeded this week are expected to reproduce and generate tens of thousands more shellfish in the years ahead, helping sustain Long Island’s coastal ecosystems and shellfishing economy for future generations.
