Senator Tom Croci and Mastic Beach Mayor Maura Spery Post Signs to Help Protect the Blue Claw Crab Population From Illegal Harvesting
(Long Island, NY) Senator Thomas Croci (R-C-I, Sayville) and Mastic Beach Mayor Maura Spery join together to announce the new postings of New York State Department of Environmental Conservation signage to inform the public of the proper harvesting sizes and possession limits of the blue claw crab in Mastic Beach Village.
“Our marine life is one of the vibrant aspects of life on Long Island and the responsible harvesting of species such as the blue claw crab ensure we all have the opportunity to enjoy the recreational angling our bays and waterways offer while also respecting the natural growth of the sea life habitat,” said Senator Croci.
“These signs will be beneficial in informing people of the harvesting regulations, thus balancing the recreational interests of residents and visitors with environmentally sound practices today and for future generations,” said Mayor Spery.
The signs inform harvesters that their blue claw crab catches must be at least 4.5 inches in width and the daily limit is 50 crabs per person. Additionally, the possession of female crabs with eggs is strictly prohibited. Anyone wishing to report violations of the NYS DEC harvesting regulations may do so by calling 1-877-457-5680.
The harvesting signage comes just in time for the annual Mastic Beach Blue Claw Crab Festival set to take place on Sunday, August 30th from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Bob DeBona Memorial Marina 1 located at 97 Riviera Drive, Mastic Beach. For more information on the festival, please contact Mastic Beach Village Town Hall at 631-281-2326.
All media inquiries should be directed to Senator Croci’s Communications Specialist, Christine Geed at (631) 398-8044 (call or text) or via email at geed@nysenate.gov. Inquiries for additional information should be directed to Senator Croci’s Press Secretary, Jennifer Freeman Romero at (631) 513-5657 or via email at jfreeman@nysenate.gov.
