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.