Nantucket Maria Mitchell Association Announces Scalloping Field Trip Program October 1 – November 19, 2025

September 12, 2025

NANTUCKET, MA— The Nantucket Maria Mitchell Association (MMA) is pleased to announce the launch of its 2025 Scalloping Field Trip Program, set to begin October 1. This hands-on, educational experience invites participants to explore the island’s coastal waters alongside MMA Aquarium Manager Christina Norman, while learning about the ecology and conservation of Nantucket’s iconic bay scallops.

 

Participants will head into the water to collect scallops while learning about their biology, life cycle, and the challenges bay scallops face in today’s changing environment. Hand nets and adult waders will be provided. A shellfish permit is not required to participate—unless attendees wish to take their catch home.

 

Scalloping Field Trips meet at one of multiple locations in Nantucket Harbor to account for changing scallop availability. Registrants will be notified of the exact location via email before the day of the program. Personal transport to and from the meeting location is required to participate.

 

Dates: October 1, 4, 5, 8, 10, 12, 15, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26, 29.; November 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 12, 15, 16, 19.



Cost per Participant: $50


Pre-registration is required for this event and closes two hours before the start time of the program.


Registration Link: https://112458a.blackbaudhosting.com/112458a/Scalloping-Field-Trip-01Oct2025


For more information on obtaining an individual shellfish permit, visit the Town of Nantucket website: https://www.nantucket-ma.gov/2304/Shellfish-Permit


The Science Speaker Series is generously sponsored by the Maria Mitchell Association’s lead sponsor, Bank of America. 


The Maria Mitchell Association was founded in 1902 to preserve the legacy of Nantucket native astronomer, naturalist, librarian, and educator, Maria Mitchell. After she discovered a comet in 1847, Mitchell’s international fame led to many achievements and awards, including an appointment as the first professor of astronomy at Vassar College. Maria Mitchell believed in “learning by doing” and today that philosophy is reflected in the MMA’s mission statement, programs, research projects, and other activities. The Maria Mitchell Association operates two observatories, a natural science museum, an aquarium, a research center, and preserves the historic birthplace of Maria Mitchell. A wide variety of science and history-related programming is offered throughout the year for people of all ages.

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For Immediate Release

September 12, 2025

Contact: Christina Norman

cnorman@mariamitchell.org

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