In collaboration with fisheries scientists at the New Jersey Bureau of Shellfisheries, a hard clam survey will be conducted before and after laying Ocean Wind 1 export cables in Barnegat Bay. The survey will use standardized hydraulic dredge tows and benthic grabs to sample hard clams in export cable area and along a gradient of control locations. These tows will provide information about clam abundance, population structure, and overall condition.

Research Questions

  *   What is the abundance and population structure of hard clams within the area where cables will be laid, and control areas?
  *   What are the sediment characteristics in the area of cable laying?
  *   Do we observe any substantive changes in hard clam abundance, overall health, or habitat after the cables have been installed?