Razor Clam Harvesting Area Expanded in Oregon
On Friday, the Oregon Department of Agriculture and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife announced that another section of the coast has been opened for razor clam harvesting. Razor clamming is now open from Tillamook Head, south of Seaside, to the California border. Recent shellfish samples taken from the area indicate that levels of the marine biotoxin domoic acid have fallen below the alert level.
Even though marine biotoxin levels are now below the alert level, razor clam harvesting remains closed from the Columbia River to Tillamook Head until October 1st for the annual razor clam conservation closure.
Mussel, bay clam, and crab harvesting remains open along the entire Oregon coast.
Coastal scallops are not affected by biotoxin closures when only the adductor muscle is eaten. ODA does not recommend eating whole scallops. Commercial shellfish products sold in stores and restaurants remain safe for consumers. Paralytic shellfish toxin and domoic acid toxin are produced by algae and originate in the ocean. ODA will continue to test for shellfish toxins twice per month, as tides and weather permit. Reopening an area closed for biotoxins requires two consecutive tests with results below the closure limit.
If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail gvaagen@cherrycreekmedia.com
More From PNW Ag Network
