Overview
- The state Division of Marine Fisheries designated portions of Winthrop, Hingham, and Hull as Conditionally Approved for direct human consumption after decades of cleanup.
- The designation removes the blanket depuration requirement and positions the resource for broader public access once local rules are in place.
- Winthrop, Hingham, and Hull must adopt management plans, establish permits and enforceable rules, and appoint a trained shellfish constable, with DMF support underway.
- Openings are projected to begin in 2026, and Hull’s harbormaster said local steps could allow harvesting there in late 2026.
- Any reopened areas will face temporary closures following heavy rainfall, sewage spills, or other water-quality events to protect public health.