Regional Green Crab Summit 2025

🌊 Building Solutions Together: Regional Green Crab Summit 🌊

Last Friday, I had the privilege of hosting a first-of-its-kind Regional Green Crab Summit at Essex Tech, in partnership with the Green Crab Task Force, Merrimack Valley Planning Commission, Essex North Shore Agricultural & Technical School and The Governor's Academy. This event brought together more than 150 industry experts, educators, students, and local, state and federal officials from across New England, the Eastern Seaboard, as well as, ambassadors from the Canadian Consulate.

The European green crab is one of the most destructive invasive species threatening our coastal waters. Its impact reaches far beyond the environment — it’s devastating our soft-shell clam industry, damaging eelgrass beds essential to young fish and shellfish, and disrupting the livelihoods that depend on healthy marine ecosystems.

That’s why this summit was so important — to bring everyone to the same table, share research and experience, and build the partnerships needed to mount an effective, coordinated response.

We heard from scientists, industry leaders, and policymakers — including keynote speaker Dr. Brian Turner of Washington State’s Green Crab Management Program — who emphasized the importance of collaboration and innovation in managing this threat.

We also explored ways to turn this challenge into opportunity, including developing new culinary, composting, fertilizer, and bait uses that could support sustainable industries while reducing the crab population.

By working together, we can protect our marine resources, support our fishing communities, and preserve the coastal ecosystems that are vital to both our environment and our economy. 🌊🦀

MA Healthy Incentives Benefits Still Available

PLEASE SEE THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION SHARED WITH OUR OFFICE BY THE MA FOOD SYSTEM COLLABORATIVE RELATIVE TO THE MA HEALTHY INCENTIVES PROGRAM (HIP)📢

🥕As long as a SNAP recipient keeps at least $0.01 on their EBT account, they can access $40+ of HIP for local fruits and vegetables in November.

🍅HIP is a state funded program and is not affected by the shutdown.

🌽You can find HIP locations here (please select November in the 'month of operation' option): https://dtafinder.dtadash.ehs.mass.gov/

🥗MA Food System Collaborative 🥗

The Massachusetts Food System Collaborative supports collective action toward an equitable, sustainable, resilient, and connected local food system in Massachusetts.

We envision a local food system where everyone has access to healthy food, to land to grow food, to good jobs, and to the systems where policy decisions are made.

Learn more ⬇

🔗www.mafoodsystem.org   

Constituent Services Office Hours: Week of Nov. 1st

Upcoming Constituent Services Office Hours next week [November Week 1]  🗓️ ⬇️

Have a question or concern? Meet with a member of my staff in person.

Official points of contact so that my office can assist you:

📞 (617)-722-1600

📧 Bruce.Tarr@MaSenate.gov

Tarr in the News: Green Crab Summit 2025

TARR IN THE NEWS | 10.27.25

Last week, I was pleased to host the Regional Green Crab Summit, in collaboration with the Green Crab Task Force, Merrimack Valley Planning Commission, and Essex Tech & Governor's Academy.

Thank you to the Gloucester Daily Times for covering this important initiative and looking forward to future implementations of ideas inspired from this year's summit!

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'Summit focuses on green crab problems, potentials'

By Stephen Hagan | Gloucester Daily Times

EXCERPT BELOW:

"State Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr, R-Gloucester, opened the event saying the number of green crabs observed in the region has grown dramatically since 2020.

“It’s one of the most horrendous characters around,” he said, alluding to the threat green crabs (Carcinus maenas) pose to the local environment and their negative effect on the local fishing community.

“The goal is to leave this room with one path to attend to green crabs.”

The Massachusetts Legislature, Tarr said, has addressed the issue — appropriating about $950,000 in recent years for programs to control the species. He said the intent is to invest in green crab mitigation measures and develop a system that lends itself to self-sustaining control programs.

“These are not insignificant amounts of money,” he said. “The Commonwealth of Massachusetts is very serious about the green crab issue.”"

Read the full article:

https://www.gloucestertimes.com/.../article_c8908f4e-12e1...

 

Tarr in the News: Transparency Bill

TARR IN THE NEWS | 10.30.25

'Massachusetts Gov. Healey silent on bill looking to revive transparency on shelter spending'

By Lance Reynolds | Boston Herald

EXCERPTS BELOW:

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"Senate Republicans are celebrating what they are describing as a “victory for transparency” after the successful inclusion of an amendment that would hold the Healey administration accountable for how taxpayer dollars are being spent on the emergency shelter system."

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"But the $2.3 billion closeout supplemental budget, if it receives Healey’s signature, would revive that transparency, directing the state Executive Office of Administration and Finance to publish detailed, biweekly spending reports to the public.

It would also require regular reports on spending within the HomeBase rental assistance program, including demographic data of applicants and participants, such as household size, age, gender and immigration status.

“Public reporting on the costs related to these two programs is essential to transparency and accountability, and necessary for the legislature to have the timely information needed to act to ensure that they have integrity and cost-effectiveness,” Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr, a Gloucester Republican, said in a statement.""

Read the full article:

https://www.bostonherald.com/.../massachusetts-gov.../

Happy Halloween 2025!

Happy Halloween 2025!

Wishing everyone a safe and fun-filled Halloween full of fun, treats, and spooky surprises!

Please remember to drive safely and stay on the lookout for the littlest ghouls and goblins while enjoying the festivities.

Tarr in the News: Newbury Recognizes Gene Case

TARR IN THE NEWS | 10.27.25

'Newbury recognizes Case for years of service to town'

By Lisa Rinaldi | Daily News of Newburyport

Excerpt Below:

"Local resident, retired teacher, and longtime public servant, Gene Case was presented with a Certificate of Recognition by the town.

At the same ceremony, Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr, R-Gloucester, presented Case with a citation from the Senate, while state Rep. Kristin Kassner, D-Hamilton, bestowed a similar citation from the House of Representatives, all marking Case’s more than 30 years of service to the town.

Newbury Town Administrator Tracy Blais called the honors “a well-deserved recognition, as Gene has been an exceptional resource to the town.”"

Read the full article:

https://www.newburyportnews.com/.../article_85be35c9-8e89...

Today in the Senate Chamber: Thursday, October 30th

Today, Thursday, October 30th, the Senate will be holding an informal session in the Senate Chamber set to begin at 11 AM:

You can read a copy of the tentative agenda in advance online at the following location:

https://malegislature.gov/ClerksOffice/Senate/Agenda

To watch today's informal session LIVE, visit:

https://malegislature.gov/Events/Sessions/Detail/7550

 

Seafood Day at the State House

🐟 2025 Seafood Day at the Massachusetts State House 🐟

Seafood Day 2025 at the Massachusetts State House was another great opportunity to celebrate our Commonwealth’s fishing industry — one of our oldest and most vital industries — and those who make Massachusetts seafood among the best in the world.

I was a proud sponsor of the event, as Senate Co-Chair of the Coastal Caucus, alongside Representative LaNatra, House Co-Chair. Hosted by the Massachusetts Fishermen's Partnership, the Massa#statesenatorbrucetarr aborative, and the Fishing Partnership Support Services, the event offered a chance to connect legislators, regulators, industry groups, and community organizations—and to highlight the dedication and hard work of our commercial fishermen and the communities that depend on them.

I was honored to share remarks celebrating the hardworking fishermen and lobstermen of Massachusetts while underscoring the challenges they face every day — like how our groundfish industry continues to face significant hurdles due to proposed changes to cod stock limits that will dramatically impact catch limits on other species that co-mingle with cod, that those regulating offshore wind development need to take more cognizance of its potential impact on our fisheries, and that our lobstermen continue to make a huge economic sacrifice through seasonal fishing restrictions and gear modifications in order to protect the Atlantic northern right whales.

Our fisheries are a traditional industry that have sustained our coastal communities for hundreds of years, and it is critical that we protect and support them so that they can continue to sustain future generations for years to come.

Cybersecurity Awareness Month

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month 

In today’s connected world, staying safe online is more important than ever.

Cybersecurity Awareness Month serves as a reminder that we all have a role to play in protecting our personal information, workplaces, and communities from online threats.

Take time before this month comes to an end to strengthen your passwords, update your software, and think before you click — simple steps that make a big difference in staying secure.

Together, we can build a safer, more resilient digital future.

 

Celebrating 50 Years of Environmental Stewardship

I was honored to attend the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection’s 50th Anniversary Celebration held on October 21, 2025 at the Massachusetts State House — commemorating five decades of protecting our environment and preserving our future.

The Department of Environmental Protection has been focused for five decades on protecting our Commonwealth’s natural resources – the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the ecosystems that support our quality of life. That focus has made collaboration, innovation, and leadership essential to its success, and these qualities, which have been necessary to its history, are the key to its future, as well.

MassDEP Commissioner Bonnie Heiple offered remarks to a large crowd gathered in celebration of their 50th anniversary. Additional speakers during the ceremony, included: Senate President Karen Spilka, House Speaker Ronald Mariano, Senator Rebecca Rausch, Representative Christine Barber, UMass President Marty Meehan, and Environmental League of Massachusetts President Elizabeth Turnbull Henry.

This milestone is a powerful reminder that collaboration, innovation, and dedication continue to drive MassDEP's shared commitment to safeguarding the Commonwealth’s natural resources for generations to come.

Open Door to Hold Extra Food Distribution Event Saturday 11/1

SPECIAL NOTICE FROM The Open Door 

THIS SATURDAY 11/1 from 10AM to 2PM at 28 Emerson Avenue, Gloucester MA location   

 The Open Door is holding an extra food distribution event for people impacted by the SNAP delay.

 Furloughed government employees and government contractors impacted by the shutdown are also welcome to attend.

 This is available to clients of BOTH Gloucester and Ipswich food pantries.

 There will be FREE milk, eggs, protein, produce, and grocery basics available.

 No appointment needed.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS PROVIDED BELOW 

 

Tarr in the News: Merrimack Restoration Project Awarded Over $200k

Press Release Offered by Department of Fish and Game, Division of Ecological Restoration, Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs

Recently, I had the pleasure of sharing a quote to be included in the press release relative to the 'Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards Over $700K to Support Regional Restoration Partnerships'. This grant funding is intended to support partnerships to restore rivers and wetlands.

"The Merrimack River Watershed is a critical environmental resource for our region and our state, and its health depends on the strength of its tributary watersheds,” said Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester).

“This grant funding will make possible the type of fundamental projects, such as dam removal and culvert improvements, that improve flow and water quality, which in turn support ecosystem vitality and the many benefits the river provides every day. Moreover, these projects build on the momentum we are creating in the region for a comprehensive suite of measures to maximize the quality of the river. I am grateful to my friend, former Senator Ed Kennedy, for his partnership in bringing a wide array of stakeholders together for a collaborative effort that has been growing steadily and holds great promise for the future.”

Merrimack Restoration Partnership Grant Awardee Amount: $228,300

Lead Organization/Awardee: Merrimack River Watershed Council

The Merrimack Restoration Partnership unites regional partners to advance watershed-scale restoration and climate resilience across the Nashua, Lower Merrimack, Sudbury-Assabet-Concord, Spicket, Shawsheen, and Beaver Brook sub-watersheds in Northeast and North Central Massachusetts.

This award will support high-priority ecological restoration projects—including dam removals, and culvert assessments and replacements—while also advancing urban stream revitalization in Lowell and Lawrence to improve water quality, restore floodplains, engage communities, and expand public access to local rivers and streams.

Full Press Release

 

Tarr in the News: 25th Anniversary of First R Foundation

TARR IN THE NEWS | 10.25.25

'First R Foundation celebrates 25th anniversary'

By Ethan Forman | Gloucester Daily Times

EXCERPT BELOW:

"One of First R Foundation’s longtime readers, Jennifer Orlando, middle, was awarded First R’s Frances Ferrante Award for volunteering her time to read to students. Here, Orlando is shown accepting a citation for her efforts from state Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr, R-Gloucester, left, and state Rep. Ann-Margaret Ferrante, D-Gloucester. The award is named after Ferrante’s mother, who worked as a school librarian."

Read the full article:

https://www.gloucestertimes.com/.../article_ff06a468-c4e6...

Learn more about First R Foundation:

firstrfoundation.org

 

National First Responders' Day

Today, we honor the brave men and women who run toward danger when the rest of us run away.

On #NationalFirstRespondersDay, we thank our police officers, firefighters, paramedics, EMTs, and 911 dispatchers across Massachusetts and the nation for their courage, dedication, and selflessness.

Your service keeps our communities safe, and we are forever grateful.

 

US Navy Day 2025

⚓️ U.S. Navy Day ⚓️

Today we proudly recognize U.S. Navy Day, honoring the brave men and women of the United States Navy — past and present — who safeguard our nation’s freedom across the globe.

Their steadfast dedication to protecting freedom and upholding the highest ideals of duty and patriotism embodies the very best of American service.

To all who have worn the Navy uniform — and to the families who stand behind them — we extend our deepest gratitude for your strength, sacrifice, and devotion.

Tarr in the News: Senator Tarr Honored for Climate Stewardship

TARR IN THE NEWS | 10.23.25

'ACES honors Tarr'

Article by the Daily News of Newburyport

EXCERPT BELOW:

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"The Alliance of Climate and Environmental Stewards (ACES) on Friday, Oct. 17, honored Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr, R-Gloucester, for his years of climate and environmental stewardship.

The presentation, made by ACES Board members Art Currier and Lon Hachmeister, kicked off a joint meeting hosted by Mayor Reardon and the ACES Board."

Read the full article:

https://www.newburyportnews.com/.../article_e5bcd7b6-b76b...

 

This Week in the Senate Chamber: October 27th

Coming up this week in the Senate Chamber the Senate will be having informal sessions today, Monday, October 27th and Thursday, October 30th at 11 AM.

You can read a copy of TODAY's tentative agenda in advance online at the following location:

https://malegislature.gov/ClerksOffice/Senate/Agenda

To watch TODAY's informal Senate Session LIVE, visit:

https://malegislature.gov/Events/Sessions/Detail/7563

 

Recognizing Stephanie Tyler-Nelson, a Commonwealth Heroine

Honoring a True Community Heroine

Last week, my Senior District Director Mary Ann Nay and I had the pleasure of visiting Jan Stephanie Tyler-Nelson at her home in Byfield to present her with official citations recognizing her as a 2025 Commonwealth Heroine.

For the past 20 years, Jan and her husband Bob have been devoted partners in our annual North Shore & Merrimack Valley Toy Drive, spreading joy and kindness to children and families across Cape Ann.

What began as a small tribute to Jan’s beloved aunt, Grace Nelson Starch — a dedicated elementary school teacher in Gloucester — has grown into a tradition that fills trucks with toys, warm clothing, and love each holiday season.

Jan’s compassion, dedication, and commitment to helping others truly make her a heroine in every sense of the word. We are grateful for her service to the community and the example she continues to set for us all.

 

Cars for Charity 2025

Great to join Brad Small, CEO of Solomon Private Wealth and Founder of the Solomon Fund Cars for Charity and fellow car enthusiasts for the annual Cars for Charity event at the Cummings Center in Beverly last weekend!

Hosted by the @solomon_fund, this event brought together incredible vehicles and generous people — all to support local charity organizations like Lifebridge, Amirah, Beverly Bootstraps, Beverly School for the Deaf, and The Pelican Intervention Fund.

A fantastic day celebrating cars, community, and compassion.

Learn more: https://solomonfundcarshow.com

 

National Day of the Deployed 2025

Honoring Our Heroes on National Day of the Deployed

Today, we recognize the courage and sacrifice of the brave men and women of our Armed Forces who are deployed around the world — defending our freedoms and protecting our nation.

We also honor the families who remain at home, carrying the weight of separation and sacrifice with strength and resilience.

Let us all take a moment to thank those who serve far from home and remember the true cost of freedom.

Recognizing Eugene Case

I had the privilege of joining the Newbury Select Board to recognize Mr. Eugene Case for his decades of dedicated service to the community.

Since first joining the School Committee in 1972, and later serving on the Arts Lottery Council and Finance Committee for over 30 years, Mr. Case has devoted decades of commitment, leadership, and integrity to the Town of Newbury.

His steadfast service has made a lasting impact on the town’s governance and quality of life, and it was a true honor to present him with an official Senate Citation in recognition of his outstanding contributions.

Thank you, Mr. Case, for your remarkable dedication and enduring example of civic engagement.