Learn how to clam

DEM offering classes nearby (but not in Charlestown)

Maybe you'll see Sarah Palin there. Not.

PROVIDENCE - Have you ever wondered how those littlenecks ended up behind the seafood window of your local grocery store? Did you know that as a Rhode Island resident you can harvest your own clams recreationally without a license? Here is your chance to learn how to dig for clams, what type of equipment is needed, and about the management strategies that have kept Rhode Island's quahog industry thriving. 

The program is sponsored by the University of Rhode Island's Sea Grant and features commercial shell fisherman Jody King, who will introduce participants to recreational clamming. Space is limited and registration is required.




"Harvesting a fresh seafood dinner straight from the ocean is the ultimate Rhode Island experience, and we encourage folks who haven't gone clamming before or want to refresh their skills to join one of these classes," said DEM Director Janet Coit.

The "Come Clam with Me" classes were created three years ago as an outreach component to Rhode Island’s Shellfish Management Plan by RI Sea Grant. These popular classes acquainted both residents and non-residents with the skills necessary to dig clams. 

Participants learned about the type of equipment used, the size limits and restrictions of quahogs, the difference between the different types of shellfish, and the importance of managing the resource for future generations. Jody King, a native Rhode Islander and commercial shellfish harvester, conducted the classes. 

Now that the RI Shellfish Management Plan has come to fruition, DEM's Aquatic Resource Education program is continuing to offer these classes to educate constituents about the importance of shellfish to the marine waters of the state and the need to properly manage the resource.

The dates and locations for the "Come Clam with Me" classes are as follows:

• Wednesday, June 17, from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. at North Kingstown Town Beach
• Thursday, July 30, from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Spink's Neck Beach in North Kingstown
• Thursday, August 20, from 4 .pm. to 7 .pm. at North Kingstown Town Beach
• Wednesday, September 16, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Spink's Neck Beach in North Kingstown

There is no fee for the class and registration is required. To register or for more information contact Kimberly Sullivan at kimberly.sullivan@dem.ri.gov or 401-539-0019.