Sen. Kelly Applauds Legislation Supporting CT’s Shellfish Industry

Sen. Kelly joined Stratford Mayor Laura Hoydick, Representative Joe Gresko, Representative Phil Young, Senator Heather Somers, Governor Ned Lamont, agriculture advocates and job creators at the bill signing.

State Senator Kevin Kelly (R-Stratford) joined legislators, state officials, agricultural advocates, and business representatives for a bill signing ceremony on Friday, July 23, 2021 at the Birdseye Launching Ramp and Fishing Pier in Stratford to commemorate the enactment of legislation implementing policies that will support continued growth of Connecticut’s shellfish industry.

“Shellfish aquaculture helps improve sediment quality, protects the shoreline from erosion, and supports local ecosystems,” said Sen. Kelly. “The shellfish industry is a valued job creator and economic contributor. This important bill is a win for our environment and for an industry that supports many.”

The shellfish industry is a significant sector of the Connecticut shoreline’s economy, generating more than $30 million in sales annually and supporting 300 jobs statewide. There are currently more than 70,000 acres of shellfish farms under cultivation in Connecticut.

The new law Public Act 21-24, An Act Concerning Connecticut’s Shellfish Restoration Program, The Connecticut Seafood Council and the Taxation of Certain Underwater Farmlands reflects an effort to increase the populations of oysters along the state’s shoreline and protect the sustainability of this vibrant sector of the economy.

Senator Kevin Kelly speaks with Jimmy Bloom of Copps Island Oysters. Bloom is a recipient of the 2020 CT Young Farmer Award.