Relates to the department of environmental conservation's management of hard clams, soft or steamer clams and razor clams

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why Christopher Ryan says this is needed

DEC's regulatory authority for hard clams, soft or steamer clams, and razor clams is necessary in order to preserve the current regulatory program. Failure to extend the existing regulatory authority by December 31, 2025 will result in the loss of regulatory protection for clams. Although ECL § 13-0325 includes size limits for hard clams and soft clams, there are no management or conservation measures established for these species, including catch and possession limits, seasonal restrictions, management areas, or other measures that are necessary for the protection of the resource and their associated habitats. Also, there are no size limits or management measures established for the taking of razor clams in the waters of the State. The hard clam has experienced a significant decline in population, and resource management is needed to conserve and protect the long-term viability of hard clam populations in the State. DEC needs regulatory authority to assist in the adoption of conservation measures that will help support hard clam restoration efforts undertaken by State, town and county agencies, nongovernmental organizations such as The Nature Conservancy, and other stakeholder organizations. Regulatory authority is needed to support and implement hard clam resto- ration efforts in our local bays and harbors. This legislation would provide DEC with the necessary regulatory authority to assist in the development and facilitation of a long-term restoration strategy for the protection of shellfish species in the marine district.

This is the sponsor's own case for the bill, quoted from their memorandum. It is not Agora's description of what the bill does.