Discover how community science and local knowledge are helping track shellfish harvesting changes in Maine’s estuaries.
Documenting Changes in Shellfish Harvesting in Maine
University of Maine researchers have conducted a groundbreaking study on shellfish harvesting trends in the Damariscotta and Medomak River estuaries, revealing significant ecological shifts. The research focused on key shellfish species such as soft shell clams and American oysters, providing essential insights for sustainable fisheries management in Maine’s intertidal mudflats—habitats that are notoriously difficult to monitor.
Decline in Soft Shell Clams, Rise in Oyster Harvesting
Led by Sarah Risley, a graduate student at the UMaine Darling Marine Center (DMC), the study found a sharp decline—up to 90%—in soft shell clam populations in the upper Damariscotta River estuary. In contrast, oyster populations have become more prominent in these tidal ecosystems.
This decline is well known among long-time commercial shellfish harvesters, but the study formally documents these changes for the first time, combining local knowledge with scientific data.
The Role of Community Knowledge in Shellfish Research
Published in the scientific journal Ambio, the research emphasizes the importance of community science and local collaboration. Co-authors include:
- Melissa Britsch (formerly of UMaine, now with the Maine Coastal Program)
- Dr. Joshua Stoll (Associate Professor of Marine Policy)
- Dr. Heather Leslie (Professor of Marine Sciences and Risley’s primary advisor)
Bridging Science and Stewardship
“This was an incredible opportunity to learn about Maine’s intertidal ecosystems. I’m deeply grateful to everyone who shared their time and expertise,” said Sarah Risley, a Wiscasset resident.
Her team collaborated with municipal leaders from Bremen, Damariscotta, and Newcastle, as well as the Joint Shellfish Conservation Committee, to collect and validate data. These efforts support ongoing shellfish conservation and fishery management in the region.
Establishing a Community Science Program
The research team is now building on this work through the creation of the Damariscotta River Estuary Community Science Program—a partnership involving:
- The Darling Marine Center
- Local high school Lincoln Academy
- Shellfish harvesters
- Municipal stakeholders
“We appreciate the Darling Center’s leadership in this collaboration and look forward to continuing to work with students from both UMaine and Lincoln Academy,” said Andrew Dorr, Damariscotta town manager.
Why This Study Matters
This research marks a major step forward in documenting traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) and using it to support scientific understanding and coastal stewardship. It underscores the importance of combining community insights with academic research for better marine resource management.
📘 Reference:
Risley, S.C. et al. (2025). Mapping local knowledge supports science and stewardship. Ambio. DOI: 10.1007/s13280-025-02170-4