Shellfish Cultivation Facility Tours

A group of students are shown cultivation tanks inside the facility

A facility worker stands atop a bench with his hand on a high volume tank with purple lights shining down upon it

Students look on at larger tanks filled with different variables of water and liquid as a facility attendant explains

A facility attendant points at a breakdown of clam development as students follow along intently

The Town of Islip The Town of Islip Shellfish Cultivation Facility is dedicated to the responsible development of the aquaculture industry, expanding the Town's marine-based economy, as well as enhancing shellfish production and improving water quality in the Great South Bay.

Now, for the first time, our facility is opening its doors to public in an open-house tour of the facility. Book today!

These guided tours will show where and how we work to cultivate shellfish seed through lifecycle (from spawning to full grown), and will discuss topics such as the Town’s involvement in restoration efforts, aquaculture, as well as our participation in research and education initiatives with local universities and non-profits.

Tours will be hosted between the months of May and October, each Thursday from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, for the first five (5) individuals to submit the sign-up form via the button below. Minimum age: 8 years old.

Local schools and non-profit organizations who wish to schedule a private tour, may do so by contacting the Hatchery directly at (631) 595-3680 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

*The Shellfish Cultivation Facility is an active work site with steps and slippery surfaces, and as such there are areas where accessibility for individuals with disabilities may be difficult.

More About Shellfish and Our Facility
The Shellfish Cultivation Facility, Located at 333 Bayview Ave., East Islip, operates year-round, working alongside local farmers through our Bay Bottom Licensing Program, to combat diminished shellfish populations caused by hurricanes, pollution and overharvesting. Oysters are known as “ecosystem engineers.” Just one adult oyster can filter from 35-50 gallons of water per day. Through the Town's robust program, millions of clams and oysters are generated each year—improving water quality, and bringing increased health and sustainability to one of our greatest environmental assets: The Great South Bay.

See our original documentary, The Blue Point Oyster to learn more.