New York State Shellfish Land Certification Program

The Shellfisheries Section of the Department of Environmental
Conservation (DEC) manages bivalve shellfish, such as clams, oysters, mussels
and scallops. Lobsters, crabs and shrimp are not included. These animals are
crustaceans and are managed by the Crustaceans Unit of the DEC. The Shellfish
Land Classification Unit regularly monitors water quality in the shellfish
growing waters in New York and establishes shellfish closures in areas with
poor water quality. The Shellfish Inspection Unit routinely inspects shellfish
shippers, packers and wholesalers to ensure that they adhere to sanitary rules
and guidelines. Working cooperatively with federal agencies, the Shellfish
Sanitation Unit seeks to provide a high level of shellfish consumer protection
and consumer confidence in the products of New York State's shellfish industry.