Oyster farms on the bay are open again after a one-week precautionary closure spurred by cases of Vibrio illness. Meanwhile, discussion has begun among oyster farmers and biologists about taking a proactive approach to the problem, possibly through planned closures during warm weather.
Oysters
2014
September 4, 2014
Edgartown’s bustling aquaculture industry is on hold this week, with Katama Bay oyster farms temporarily closed because of reported cases of Vibrio parahaemolyticus (Vp). The state Department of Public Health and Division of Marine Fisheries announced the closure, which is expected to last one week, on Wednesday.
September 4, 2014
In the midst of dire news about declining fish stocks, the developing oyster farming industry on the Vineyard offers a rare opportunity for optimism.
August 12, 2014
Oysters harvested from Katama Bay in Edgartown earlier this summer have been linked to two confirmed cases of Vibrio parahaemolyticus infection. State and local health officials said no evidence of mishandling was found and no closures have been ordered.
June 17, 2014
Edgartown shellfishermen are one step closer to farming in a new spot in Nantucket Sound, following an approval from the selectmen on Monday. The site, called the middle flats, is a 35-acre area located about a mile north of Eel Pond.
April 12, 2014
The state has issued new tougher regulations to guard against outbreaks of a shellfish bacteria known as Vibrio that closed Katama Bay to oyster harvesting for three weeks last fall.
