9-5 



for a given year. In addition, growth, mortality and condition index 

 were compared graphically to determine if postoperational changes in 

 patterns could be detected. Appropriate data sets were used for hypo- 

 thesis testing while the entire data set (1972-1977) was used for 

 graphic comparisons. 



METHODS 



A brief, general resume of sampling and measurement methodol- 

 ogies for each of the two overall experimental periods (May 1971-April 

 1973 and May 1973-November 1977) follows. For detailed methods, ana- 

 lytic techniques, and specific results for each year's study, refer to 

 the relevant Normandeau Associates, Inc. reports (NAI: 1973, 1974a, 

 1974b, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978). 



1971 - 1973 



) 



Trays of live oysters were emplaced in July 1971 at the Fort 

 Hale fishing pier, the outer end of the Harbor Station pier and on Long 

 Wharf (Figure 9-2). At each site, a wire basket containing trays of oysters 

 was attached to the pier in such a position that it would remain sub- 

 merged at all tidal levels (approximately six feet below mean low water) . 

 Trays were separated into two sections. The larger part contained 

 50 measured and weighed oysters. The remaining portion of the basket 

 held a reserve supply of oysters to be added to the study group as 

 mortality replacements. These oysters were purchased from oyster 

 growers in Marion, Massachusetts, and had been grown on the west side of 

 Buzzard's Bay. Once each month, the trays were raised and all oysters 

 scraped clean of fouling growth. Each living specimen was measured with 

 calipers along its greatest length and weighed (Ohaus spring scale) in a 

 ir.esh basket immersed in a pail of harbor water. 



The August 1971 inspection of the oyster baskets revealed that 

 the Fort Hale sample had been vandalized, and all oysters removed. The 



