In Westport, Connecticut, residents are facing the devastating environmental impact of illegals refusing to follow local laws to protect marine life.
Although there are laws meant to limit the harvesting of shellfish in the state, to protect the population of clams, steamers, oysters, and mussels, illegals are ignoring the laws and creating what could become devastating for the shellfish population in the area.
The Connecticut Sentinel notes that Connecticut General Statutes § 26-228 “prohibits taking any shells or shellfish from the shores or waters of the state between sunset and sunrise. The penalty is a fine of $100–$500 and/or up to 30 days in jail. Westport’s recreational shellfishing regulations explicitly adopt this rule. Harvesting is allowed only from sunrise to sunset.”
A resource guide from National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), notes, “Shellfish are important to Connecticut’s coastal communities and economies, the waters of Long Island Sound and the many species of marine wildlife that rely upon them.”
“The harvest and cultivation of shellfish along our shores provides local food, jobs, contributes to the maritime economy, and shellfisheries are an important part of the state’s history and culture.”
“Connecticut’s aquaculture industry is an important agriculture sector. Aquaculture is the 7th highest valued agriculture product in the state according to the USDA Census of Agriculture. Marine aquaculture is the largest sector.”
Hellbound and Down 