oysters

In Westport, Connecticut, residents are facing the devastating environmental impact of illegals refusing to follow local laws to protect marine life.

Although there are laws meant to limit the harvesting of shellfish in the state, to protect the population of clams, steamers, oysters, and mussels, illegals are ignoring the laws and creating what could become devastating for the shellfish population in the area.

The Connecticut Sentinel notes that Connecticut General Statutes § 26-228 “prohibits taking any shells or shellfish from the shores or waters of the state between sunset and sunrise. The penalty is a fine of $100–$500 and/or up to 30 days in jail. Westport’s recreational shellfishing regulations explicitly adopt this rule. Harvesting is allowed only from sunrise to sunset.”

A resource guide from National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), notes, “Shellfish are important to Connecticut’s coastal communities and economies, the waters of Long Island Sound and the many species of marine wildlife that rely upon them.”

“The harvest and cultivation of shellfish along our shores provides local food, jobs, contributes to the maritime economy, and shellfisheries are an important part of the state’s history and culture.”

“Connecticut’s aquaculture industry is an important agriculture sector. Aquaculture is the 7th highest valued agriculture product in the state according to the USDA Census of Agriculture. Marine aquaculture is the largest sector.”

Per The Connecticut Sentinel:

  • A Westport recreational shellfish permit is required (annual or one-day). Children under 17 do not need their own permit but must be with a permitted adult. The permit must be displayed while harvesting.
  • Daily limit: ½ bushel of shellfish per person in any 24-hour period. “Unlimited” is not allowed.
  • Size limits apply (examples): hard clams (quahogs) must be at least 1.5 inches or 1 inch thick; oysters at least 3 inches; soft-shell clams 1.5 inches; razor clams 4 inches; mussels 2 inches. Undersized shellfish must be returned immediately.
  • Harvest is for personal/family consumption only, not sale.

Yet illegals are harvesting shellfish “by the hundreds” at night, which could wipe out the population for everyone.

Locals fear they are watching the supply disappear.

A resident of Old Mill told the outlet, “There’s nothing left, they stripped the place clean.”

If they don’t follow the laws about entering our country, why would they follow laws to protect the environment?

 

 

The post Where are the Environmentalists? Illegals Destroying Connecticut’s Natural Resources appeared first on The Gateway Pundit.