New aquaculture information signage unveiled for Castlemaine Harbour

Erected at the harbour, the sign details shellfish species produced in the area including bottom mussels, oysters and clams. Catherine Butler, BIM’s Southwest Aquaculture Development Officer explains the rationale behind the new signage: "Aquaculture has and continues to play a major role in coastal communities including Castlemaine by providing employment and revenue both directly and indirectly. This sign is one of many produced for our coastal communities to highlight the high value species farmed in Ireland."

The Interpretive sign, located in the car park beside Jack’s Cromane, gives an overview of shellfish produced locally, the geography of the area and a description of the Cromane Bottom Mussel Fishery. The sign was produced under BIM's Coordinated Local Aquaculture Management Systems or CLAMS Initiative. The primary aim of CLAMS is to ensure that the development of the Irish aquaculture industry is in keeping with the principles of Single Bay Management. The process is a nationwide initiative and CLAMS groups have been set up all along the Irish coast with the support of BIM and the Marine Institute.