Edgartown selectmen set dates for the 2015–2016 bay scallop season at their Monday meeting, approving the recommendation of the town’s shellfish committee.

Recreational scalloping begins Thursday, Oct. 1 in all Edgartown waters. Dragging for scallops is prohibited in Cape Pogue until Oct. 30. Recreational scallopers can take one 10-gallon wash basket per week.

The commercial season kicks off Nov. 2 in all waters. Commercial fisherman can take three 10-gallon wash baskets per day. Scalloping is allowed from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Paul Bagnall, the town’s shellfish warden and marine biologist, said he expects fewer commercial boats this year, and he is not optimistic about topping last year’s harvest.

“Not as good as last year,” said Mr. Bagnall. “Can’t be a banner year every year. We probably got about half of our scallops caught already in January through April.”

Last year selectmen extended the scallop season because extreme winter weather in January and February forced commercial boats to miss many scalloping days.

Mr. Bagnall said he has expanded shellfish propagation to Katama Bay. “We’re seeing a few scallops there now that the breach has closed.”

Also Monday, selectmen unanimously approved a letter of support to be mailed with a survey by the Healthy Aging Task Force, intended to assess the needs of the Island’s fast growing population, people over 60.

Questions are designed to assess housing, transportation, and health needs, as well as gather information to support caregivers.

“We were lucky enough to get a grant,” said Paddy Moore, who chairs the task force. “We hope to get it out just before Columbus Day.”

The voluntary questionnaires are due back by Nov. 1.

Selectmen approved removal of two public shade trees at 140 Cooke street, where contractor Norman Rankow is working on a construction project. After selectmen deferred a decision last week, Mr. Rankow submitted a site plan that showed he would replace the two trees with an ornamental flowering pear tree.