PROVIDENCE - The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) today announced it is hosting a series of free recreational clamming workshops this summer. The workshops, led by a local shellfisherman, review the history and value of shellfishing in Rhode Island and provide an opportunity for participants to dig for their own clams.
The following public workshops are scheduled:
Tuesday, July 25 | 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Colt State Park, Bristol
Friday, August 11| 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. North Kingstown Town Beach, North Kingstown
Tuesday, August 22 | 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Rocky Point State Park, Warwick
Saturday, September 9 | 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Rocky Point State Park, Warwick
People of all ages are encouraged to participate. Space is limited and registration is required. To register, contact Kimberly Sullivan at Kimberly.sullivan@dem.ri.gov. All equipment and materials will be provided. Come Clam With Me workshops are sponsored by DEM's Aquatic Resource Education (ARE) program. ARE provides a host of recreational fishing opportunities for the public – as well as marine science programming for educators.
Clamming (known locally as quahogging) has a rich history in Rhode Island, as a significant contributor to the state's commercial fishing industry, a staple of local food traditions, and a beloved family pastime. More than 28 million quahogs were harvested from Narragansett Bay and local coastal waters last year. In recognition of the economic and cultural value of shellfish, Governor Gina M. Raimondo, along with many partners, launched the Rhode Island Shellfish Initiative earlier this year. Through it, state agencies, industry, academia, and community partners will further efforts to sustainably manage local shellfish stock, promote economic growth and jobs, and celebrate Rhode Island's unique food cultures.
For more information on ARE programs and events, visit www.dem.ri.gov/are. Follow DEM on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RhodeIslandDEM or Twitter (@RhodeIslandDEM) for timely updates.