Shellfish harvesting closed in north Hood Canal due to marine biotoxins

BREMERTON -- Shellfish harvesting has been temporarily banned in the north Hood Canal along the Kitsap County shoreline due to high levels of marine biotoxins that cause paralytic shellfish poisoning.

The affected area runs from Foulweather Bluff south to the Bangor Submarine Base, including all bays and inlets, the Washington state Department of Health and Kitsap Public Health District announced Tuesday.

Warning signs have been posted at public beaches alerting people not to collect shellfish from the closure areas. Existing shellfish closures remain in effect.  All Kitsap County shellfish harvesting closures are listed on the Kitsap Public Health District Shellfish Harvesting Advisory webpage.

This closure includes all recreational shellfish harvesting for all species of clams, oysters, and mussels.

Shrimp and crab are not included in this closure, but crabs should be cleaned prior to cooking, and the “crab butter” should be discarded. Shellfish harvested commercially that are available in stores and restaurants are tested for toxins prior to distribution, and are safe to eat.

Kitsap County said it is very important that anyone planning to harvest or consume local, recreationally harvested shellfish check the status of shellfish harvesting before consuming any shellfish.

Kitsap Public Health Resources: