Agriculture Department would guide shellfish farmers on hosting visitors

The Agriculture Department would develop and share guidance on visitor activities at shellfish farms. The guidance is for aquatic farmers and shellfish dealers. Yearly emails would go to holders of an aquatic farmer license or shellfish dealer certification. The department would consult other state offices, including those responsible for aquaculture and marine water monitoring. The guidance must follow federal, state, and local rules. It would point readers to resources, which may cover food safety, farm visits, and financing. These requirements would take effect immediately if the bill becomes law. The department would email the written guidance each year.