(a) The maximum number of industry standard bushels of surf clams to be taken shall not exceed 50,000 industry standard bushels in a calendar year.

(b) Effective January 1, 1992 and for each year thereafter, the department may direct that the maximum quantity of surf clams to be harvested annually be reduced or increased. Written notice of any such directive shall be provided to all permit holders.

(c) Upon 48 hours' notice, if it is determined by the department that the maximum allowable harvest of surf clams pursuant to subdivision (a) or (b) of this section will be met before the end of any given calendar year, harvesting will be terminated as directed by the department.

(d) No vessel may be used to harvest more than 21 standard cages (equivalent to 672 industry standard bushels) in any weekly, Sunday through Saturday, period between January 1st and June 14th and between September 16th and December 31st. No vessel may be used to harvest more than 100 industry standard bushels in any weekly, Sunday through Saturday, period between June 15th, and September 15th, all dates inclusive.

(e) No vessel may be used to harvest more than 14 standard cages of surf clams (equivalent to 448 industry standard bushels) in any one day between January 1st and June 14th and between September 16th and December 31st. No vessel may be used to harvest more than 50 industry standard bushels in any one day between June 15th and September 15th, all dates inclusive.

(f) It shall be unlawful for any person to exceed the harvest restrictions set forth in this section or in any directive issued by the department pursuant hereto.