Milford chronicle., 1947-09-05
SHELL FISHERIES RECEIPTS
TOTAL $16,35S DURING YEAR

The Delaware Commission of
Shell Fisheries had receipts total |
ing $16,35879 for the fiscal year
ending June 80, according to the
annual report which was submitted
to Governor Walter W. Bacon this
week. The financial statement re-
veals that of the receipts $7,69O.54
were for fees collected by the COM
mission and $S,668.25 was for Ii !
censes granted by the commission.
Presenting a review of their work
for the fiscal year, the commission
stated that in the Delaware Bay
the dredging for plants on natural
rocks was opened on May 1 and
closed on June 6, providing SO
days for the oystermen to dredge
on the natural oyster beds.
During this time," the report
states, approximately $4,000 bu-
shells of seed oysters were taken
and approximately rs per cent of
these oysters were planted in Del
aware Bay.
1.-The commission feels that the
work done on Flogger Bed last
year, closing the ridge after three
days work, and other restrictions
made by the commission, will in
crease and enlarge the natural
rocks in Delaware Bay. Twenty
six boats worked, which is an in
crease of four boats over last year.
The commission feels that the
beds will be in at least 25 per
cent better condition at the open
ing of the season in 194S.
he%The commission purchased 25,-
doc bushels of oyster shells, which
have been planted in Delaware Bay
for the purpose of catching growth
Of small oysters. In addition, they
will make a new bed for future use
of oystermen."
sni RehObOth Area Activities
e Concerning the activities in Re-
hoboth and Indian River Bays, the
report states in part: Approx
mately 10000 bushels of oysters
were planted in Rehoboth Bay dur
fng the past IL months. Approx
ihately $4,000 bushels were har-
vested during the past season.
], 'The unfavorable weather condi-
tions (easterly winds and high
watrs) caused a high salinity OF
the water making feeding condl-
lions very unfavorable for oysters,
and has caused great deal OF
seaweed and cabbage growth on
all oyster beds.
s However, the changing weather
conditions during the last two
months is making it more favor
Able for growing oysters and the
cleaning Of the beds. The COM
mission hopes that this condition
will be very much improved in the
eoming year. The oystermen seem
very well pleased and are continu'
ing to make preparations for the
planting and harvesting this com
ing season.
"The commission maintains a pa
troll boat working out of Rehobotf
For the protection of oyster plant
ers in Rehoboth Bay and lndlal
River Bay"
Rivers, Creeks Report
A portion of the report deals
with rivers and creeks and states
in part. approximately 125,OO'
bushels of oysters were taken from
Broadkiln River during the pas
wear. Approximately 200 tonger'
worked in this river during th
longing season the past year. TN
is quite an increase from last year
catch.
i approximately $4,000 bushels o
seed oysters were taken from Mis-
pillion, Murderkill, and st. Jones lre
Rivers during the past year. In
commission looks forward to
much more prosperous season
These oysters must be planted O
nriyate beds as these streams ar
polluted and are not allowed 10 d
used for food consumption.