The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Marine Fisheries has initiated the application process for the 2025 shellfish lease and aquaculture program. Interested parties, including individuals, businesses, and partnerships, can submit applications until August 1 to lease public coastal waters for oyster or clam farming.
Shellfish aquaculture plays a significant role in supporting North Carolina’s working waterfronts and offers economic and environmental advantages to coastal communities.
The division provides guidance and technical support to assist applicants in meeting state requirements and establishing effective lease operations. Application materials and further details are accessible at deq.nc.gov/shellfish-lease#ShellfishLeaseApplications-4100.
For additional information, contact the Habitat and Enhancement Section at 252-515-5480.
