Learn to dig softshell clams at Reid State Park

Thu, 07/04/2019 - 7:15am

The Kennebec Estuary Land Trust's (KELT) most popular summertime event is coming up on Tuesday, July 9 from 10 a.m. to noon at Reid State Park in Georgetown. The public is invited to traverse clam flats with Georgetown’s Shellfish Warden, Jon Hentz, and learn to dig softshell clams. This quintessential Maine activity is great for families, kids, and adults.

No clam digging license is needed to dig a peck of clams from the sandy flats near Todds Point. Adults and children alike will enjoy the scenery and hunting for softshell clams and other tidal creatures.

Hentz has been warden for several towns in the Kennebec Estuary region for over two decades. He will share clam digging techniques as well as information about the local clam harvesting industry. Participants will discover the importance of clean water to the clams and the harvesters that dig them.

The program offered by KELT and open to the public. Participants will need to pay the state park entrance fee. This is a rain or shine event and registration is strongly encouraged at https://www.kennebecestuary.org/upcoming-events/2019reidclamming

Be sure to also check out KELT's Aug. 6 event at Reid State Park to explore tide pools of Griffiths Head and discover the impact of the invasive European green crab. The Explore the Shore series was generously sponsored by the Merrymeeting Bay Trust.

The Kennebec Estuary Land Trust is a membership supported organization dedicated to protecting the land, water and wildlife of the Kennebec Estuary. It maintains 12 preserves for public enjoyment and has protected 3,700+ acres of land since founding in 1989. FMI visit www.kennebecestuary.org or call (207) 442-8400.