Maryland HB1388 establishes a five-year pilot program for rotational oyster harvesting in designated areas of the Chesapeake Bay.

Maryland HB1388 creates a pilot program for rotational oyster harvesting in four designated areas of the Chesapeake Bay. The Department of Natural Resources will manage the program, opening and closing specific oyster bars in a rotational manner over five years. The program requires the department to collect baseline data on water quality, habitat, and oyster health before opening an area to harvesting and to continue monitoring after closing. The department can adjust catch limits, restrict harvest times, and limit the gear used.

Maryland HB1388 establishes a five-year pilot program for rotational oyster harvesting in designated areas of the Chesapeake Bay.

Maryland HB1388 creates a pilot program for rotational oyster harvesting in four designated areas of the Chesapeake Bay. The Department of Natural Resources will manage the program, opening and closing specific oyster bars in a rotational manner over five years. The program requires the department to collect baseline data on water quality, habitat, and oyster health before opening an area to harvesting and to continue monitoring after closing. The department can adjust catch limits, restrict harvest times, and limit the gear used.