Join the Maria Mitchell Association Aquarium Director Jack Dubinsky on a sustainable scalloping adventure. As participants collect bay scallops in Nantucket waters during these field trips, they will learn all about scallop biology and the challenges these local shellfish face. Waders, hand nets, and bathyscopes will be provided. This trip requires a valid shellfish permit in order to take home bay scallops.
This program is designed to be interesting for adults and for children ages 10 and older. All registered children must be accompanied by a registered adult to participate. Personal transport to and from the meeting location is required to participate: this program meets at the Hither Creek Beach Access (near 25 Massachusetts Avenue).
For more information on obtaining an individual shellfish permit, visit the Town of Nantucket website. Shellfish permits cost $35 for Nantucket residents and $125 for non-residents. Residents over 60 years of age may obtain permits free of charge. The office is open from 8 am to 4 pm Monday through Friday in the Public Safety facility at 4 Fairgrounds Road.
Sustainable Scallop Field Trip dates are: October 20 & 22; November 3, 5, 10, 12, 17, & 19, 2023. Cost per Participant is $20, and pre-registration is required. Registration closes 2 hours before the start of each trip.
The Maria Mitchell Association was founded in 1902 to preserve the legacy of Nantucket native astronomer, naturalist, librarian, and educator, Maria Mitchell. After she discovered a comet in 1847, Mitchell’s international fame led to many achievements and awards, including an appointment as the first female professor of astronomy at Vassar College. Maria Mitchell believed in “learning by doing” and today that philosophy is reflected in the MMA’s mission statement, programs, research projects, and other activities. The Maria Mitchell Association operates two observatories, a natural science museum, an aquarium, a research center, and preserves the historic birthplace of Maria Mitchell. A wide variety of science and history-related programming is offered throughout the year for people of all ages.