Jordan Cove Shellfishing Area Closed After Sewage Spill; Waterford Commission Plans Reopening

WATERFORD, CT — The recreational shellfishing area in Jordan Cove will remain closed until at least Oct. 23 following a sewer main break on Lamphere Road that released approximately 500 gallons of raw sewage into the cove, according to the Waterford Shellfish Commission.

Chairman Porter reported the closure during the commission's Oct. 6 meeting. The area could reopen Oct. 23 if water quality sampling produces satisfactory results.

The commission also reported that the recreational shellfishing area is scheduled for its annual administrative closure Dec. 31 through April 1, 2027, with reopening dependent on satisfactory water samples.

Shellfish Restocking Completed, Permit Sales Decline

The commission reported that it stocked 100 bags of certified littleneck clams in the recreational shellfishing area during the 2026 season, with assistance from commission members and Jordan Cove residents.

Despite the restocking effort, recreational shellfishing permit sales remain significantly below expectations.

Commissioners discussed expanding community outreach through social media and online channels in 2027 to increase awareness of the program and improve permit sales.

Chairman Porter also reported that Hillyer's Bait and Tackle has agreed to resume selling recreational shellfishing permits. The commission will periodically collect the proceeds.

Riverside Grocery has also been selling permits, with the commission collecting revenue twice during the season.

Commercial Shellfish Leases Await Hearings

Attorney Kepple updated commissioners on a proposed commercial shellfish bottomland lease at Bay Point involving Josh Bakoulis.

Kepple said the town must hold a public hearing before the lease can proceed. He plans to ask the Board of Selectmen to schedule the matter for November.

A separate public hearing is also expected to be requested in November for renewal of existing commercial bottomland leases.

Bakoulis thanked the commission for its support and offered to provide additional information about his proposal.

Commission Approves Storage Purchase

The commission unanimously authorized Porter to purchase a secure storage box for commission materials at the Waterford Department of Public Works.

Commissioners also discussed a fiscal 2028 Social Services grant request to support future shellfish restocking, operating expenses and clerical assistance. Porter said he would review the funding figures before the commission considers approval at its next meeting.

The commission unanimously approved its August meeting minutes and treasurer's report.

Regular meetings will continue at 6 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month at Waterford Town Hall, 15 Rope Ferry Road.