The Department of Environmental Management (DEM) is hosting a series of recreational clamming workshops this summer. The workshops, led by DEM’s Aquatic Resource Education (ARE) program, are opportunities for participants to learn how to dig for clams and the management strategies that have kept Rhode Island in the clamming industry for so long.
 
“Clamming has a rich history in Rhode Island as a beloved family pastime, a staple of local food traditions, and a significant contributor to the state’s commercial fishing industry,” said DEM Director Janet Coit. “DEM’s clamming workshops are among our most popular offerings to the public and we’re delighted to offer them in convenient locations in the East Bay, West Bay, and South County.” 

The following public workshops are scheduled:

Monday, June 17; noon to 3 p.m.
North Kingstown Town Beach, North Kingstown 
 
Tuesday, July 2; noon to 3 p.m.
Colt State Park, Bristol

Tuesday, July 30; 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Rocky Point State Park, Warwick
 
Thursday, August 1; 1 to 4 p.m.
Colt State Park, Bristol 
 
Friday, August 30; noon to 3 p.m.
Rocky Point State Park, Warwick
 
Saturday, September 28; noon to 3 p.m.
North Kingstown Town Beach, North Kingstown
 
The workshops are perfect for families to spend time together. DEM encourages people of all ages to participate. All equipment and materials will be provided. Space is limited and registration is required. Fee is $5 per person for registrants 8 years of age and older. To register, fill out the registration form on DEM’s website at www.dem.ri.gov and mail the form, along with a check made payable to ‘ARE Program’ to the Division of Fish & Wildlife, 1B Camp E-Hun-Tee Place, Exeter, RI 02822, Attn: ARE Program. Participants will be notified by email of their registration status. For questions or more information, call the Division of Fish & Wildlife Outdoor Education Office at 401/539-0019 or email Kimberly.sullivan@dem.ri.gov.