The Marion Conservation Commission has approved with conditions a Rochester man's request to establish an oyster farm in an offshore area known as Mitten's Flats.

The approval allows the applicant to continue the process and seek required approval from the state Department of Fisheries and Wildlife.

The Conservation Commission issued the order of conditions to Shay Doonan of Rochester at the commission's Aug. 8, meeting. The area Doonan proposes for his aquaculture operation has already been surveyed by the state and received the go ahead for aquaculture.

After Doonan passes all state requirements he needs to come back before selectmen for final local approval of the offshore land grant.