Seeding Bay Scallops in Sag Harbor

May 16

On May 16th, we conducted our annual Bay Scallop (Argopecten irradians) seeding in the waters of Sag Harbor Stewardship site. Kate Rossi-Snook (Back to the Bays Aquaculture Coordinator), Kim Barbour (Back to the Bays Director), Harrison Tobi (CCE Scallop Aquaculture Specialist), Rory MacNish (CCE Photographer), Kelsey Ketchum (Marketing Coordinator), and the barge operators were joined on the water by 2 VIP donors + the press.

Together, we planted approximately 40,000 overwintered bay scallops in our restored Sag Harbor Shoals eelgrass meadow, a preferred habitat for these highly predated bivalves. Originally spawned and raised in our Southold Shellfish Hatchery, our hope is these scallops will be able to survive to adulthood and spawn in the sanctuary, helping to bolster the wild population throughout our local bays, while filter-feeding and improving water quality.

40,000 scallops ready to leave the dock are kept moist with seawater through the journey

The barge on its way to the stewardship site

Scallops are tossed at a steady pace from a slowly moving barge to ensure even distribution within the sanctuary

You may be aware of recent concerns about Long Island’s bay scallop population declining due to a parasite (harmless to humans) that primarily impacts the animals’ kidneys, further exacerbated by climate change, and habitat loss. But, there is hope in the genes! Lead by Harrison Tobi, CCE is focusing on spawning a lineage of scallops from Moriches Bay, that have exhibited increased disease tolerance, and poses a gene associated with increased kidney function.

At Back to the Bays, we take a multi-species approach to restoration. Plants like eelgrass provide vital protection and habitat for shellfish, like scallops, while these bivalves improve water quality by filter-feeding, increasing light penetration for the eelgrass. In addition to scallops, we will be seeding Hard Clams (Mercenaria mercenaria) in Sag Harbor waters this fall, adding additional biodiversity and balance to our local marine ecosystem. Stay tuned for announcements about clam seeding events you can take part in.