N.J. Admin. Code § 7:12-8.3

Current through Register Vol. 56, No. 12, June 17, 2024

Section 7:12-8.3 - Requirements for vessels used to harvest and/or transport shellfish

(a) Any shellfish license holder who harvests and/or transports shellfish shall do so on vessels which meet the requirements at (a)1 through 5 below. In addition, the requirements at (a)6 and 7 below apply if the vessel is used to harvest and/or transport shellfish for direct marketing.

1. Decks and storage bins shall be constructed and located to prevent bilge water or polluted overboard water from coming into contact with the shellfish.

2. Bilge pump discharges shall be located so that the discharge does not contaminate shellfish.

3. Containers used for storing shellfish shall be clean and fabricated from safe materials.

4. Effective coverings shall be provided on harvest boats to protect shellfish from exposure to hot sun, birds, and other adverse conditions that may contaminate or cause the deterioration or decomposition of the shellfish.

5. Cats, dogs, and other animals shall not be allowed on vessels.

6. Decks and storage bins used in the harvest and/or transport of shellfish shall be kept clean with potable water or water classified as Approved or Conditionally Approved in the open status, and provided with effective drainage.

7. Vessels and all other equipment coming in contact with shellfish harvested from waters other than Approved shall be thoroughly cleaned before the vessels and equipment are used to handle and/or transport shellfish for direct marketing.

(b) Human sewage shall not be discharged into shellfish growing waters at any time. Vessels used for the harvest of shellfish shall have a Type III marine sanitation device onboard. A Type III marine sanitation device means, pursuant to 33 CFR 159.3, a device that is designed to prevent the overboard discharge of treated or untreated sewage or any waste derived from sewage. A Type III marine sanitation device shall:

1. Be used only for the purpose intended;

2. Be secured while on board and located to prevent contamination of shellfish by spillage or leakage;

3. Be emptied only into a sewage disposal system;

4. Be cleaned before being returned to the vessel; and

5. Not be cleaned in equipment used for washing or processing food.

N.J. Admin. Code § 7:12-8.3

Adopted by 48 N.J.R. 1911(a), effective 9/19/2016