The Quantifying Uncertainty and Action to Help Optimize Growth of Shellfish Act of 2025, or the QUAHOGS Act, aims to establish an East Coast Bivalve Research Task Force to address the increased variability and decline in harvests of key bivalve species, such as quahogs (hard clams). Its primary purposes are to characterize bivalve trends, identify and prioritize scientific research needs for commercially harvested and aquacultured East Coast bivalves, and foster collaboration for conservation efforts. This coordinated research strategy seeks to support sustainable bivalve fisheries and aquaculture operations across East Coast States.

Within 90 days of enactment, the Secretary of Commerce will convene the Research Task Force, comprising 16 to 21 members from various federal agencies, fishery management councils, state agencies, Indian Tribes, the bivalve industry, and academic experts. This diverse group will be responsible for reviewing existing bivalve research, identifying critical applied research needs, and evaluating the economic impacts of bivalve wild populations, fisheries, and aquaculture. The Task Force will also establish specific work groups, including one focused on quahog populations and another on the impacts of climate change on bivalves.

The Task Force's duties include a comprehensive review of bivalve science, examining factors such as traditional ecological knowledge, habitat requirements, impacts of erosion and sedimentation, and the effects of ocean warming, acidification, and sea level rise. It will also investigate restoration techniques, disease prevalence, and the economic potential and barriers for bivalve aquaculture. The Task Force is mandated to submit an interim progress report within one year and a final report within two years, detailing its findings, identifying scientific research gaps, and providing recommendations to address declining harvests and ensure the long-term health and sustainability of East Coast bivalve populations.