Downeast Institute

Downeast Institute is a renowned marine research laboratory and education center located in Beals, ME. With a focus on shellfish research and production, the institute plays a vital role in sustaining and enhancing marine resources in Maine. It was established in the mid-1980s through a collaborative effort between fishermen, community members, and research scientist Brian Beal to address the decline in soft-shell clam harvests by studying clam spawning, larvae rearing, and seed clam cultivation.

As a leading facility in the region, Downeast Institute is dedicated to conducting research on various marine species, including soft-shell clams, quahogs, blue mussels, lobsters, and more. Their state-of-the-art hatchery enables them to produce and distribute seed clams, contributing to the restoration and enhancement of shellfish populations. Through their educational programs, field trips, and summer camps, the institute also aims to inspire and educate the next generation of marine scientists and foster a deeper understanding of coastal ecosystems.

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