The Center for Community and Professional Education

This comprehensive training program prepares individuals for appointment as Shellfish Constables or Deputy Shellfish Constables in Massachusetts coastal communities, in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 130, Section 98.

Offering certification for aspiring and current municipal shellfish officers, the course provides foundational knowledge and practical skills in shellfishery management, enforcement protocols, and resource conservation.

Certification: Upon successful completion, participants will receive a certificate of completion qualifying them for appointment as Shellfish Constables or Deputy Shellfish Constables under Massachusetts law.

Participants are required to participate in an on-line technology training before the course begins. 

Format: This program has two componants. Students must complete online modules and participate in three, 7-hour, in-person meetings at Cape Cod Community College, 2240 Iyanough Road, West Barnstable, MA. (labs, guest speakers and fieldtrips), on Jan 15, 2026 from 9am-4pm (weather date Jan 23, 2026), March 13, 2026 from 9am-4pm (weather date March 20, 2026) and May 1, 2026 from 9am-4pm.

Optional weekly zoom office hour.

The MSOA Shellfish Constable Certification program is co-facilitated by Catherine Etter and Gil Newton.

Questions? Contact Mary Conklin at mconklin@capecod.edu or 508-375-5010.