Become a citizen scientist and get your hands dirty this September by joining scientists from the Martha’s Vineyard Shellfish Group (MVSG), an Island non-profit that has been maintaining public shellfish resources since 1976 by working with all six towns.

Anyone can attend the info session at the Oak Bluffs Library’s Meeting Room on Friday September 6th at 10:30 am to learn about 1.) what we do as a restoration hatchery and 2.) how we maximize the many ecosystem benefits of shellfish aquaculture. Numerous small-group fieldwork* volunteer opportunities and dates will be available for pre-registration both at the info session and after via email. Attendance to the initial session is encouraged for anyone who wants to volunteer, but is not required.

Please email: nina@mvshellfishrgoup.org to pre-register for any of the events announced at the information session, or with other inquiries. For more info about this organization: www.mvshellfishgroup.org

*Fieldwork spaces are limited and may require swimming, lifting 25+ lbs, or walking on uneven surfaces. Dates & locations vary and are dependent on weather and tide. Possible Sept. dates may be on any of the following: 11th, 12th, 13th, 15th, 18th, 19th, 23rd, 25th, or others. Pre-registration available at info session.

This month of volunteer opportunities is made possible with grant funding from the Edey Foundation, NOAA’s eeBLUE Aquaculture Literacy Program, and the Library Friends of Oak Bluffs as part of the 8th annual Maritime Month in honor of Gordon Goodwin & his family’s maritime heritage. MV Shellfish Group is committed to ensuring the history and culture of shellfish harvesting continues.