ELLSWORTH, Maine (AP)   Maine is considering a scallop fishing season that would allow fishermen to harvest levels of the shellfish similar to last year.

The state’s scallop season takes place in the winter and spring and provides some of the most valuable seafood in Maine. The Maine Department of Marine Resources says daily possession limits would remain the same as last season.

The state is also seeking to close some areas along the coast to allow the scallop population to rebuild. That includes eastern Casco Bay and Upper Sheepscot River.

The volume and value of Maine’s scallop fishery declined last year, but it remains in a much healthier position than it was a decade ago. Public hearings on this season’s rules are scheduled for Augusta, Ellsworth and Machias this month.