Closure Advisory October 2, 2008-
Due to elevated levels of paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP), more commonly known as “red tide”, the Washington State Department of Health Office of Shellfish and Water Protection has issued a closure notice for the sport harvesting of all species of shellfish in Grays Harbor. Although a Seasonal Closure is in effect for all of Grays Harbor from April through October of each year we are posting this advisory due to the elevated PSP levels.
The harvesting of Razor Clams may be allowed during the seasonal closure on designated beaches only provided that marine biotoxin monitoring indicates it is safe to do so. Please contact the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife to check on harvest dates and open beaches for razor clam digs http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/. For information on PSP or “Red Tide” closures, contact the Washington State Red Tide Hotline at (800) 562-5632. Maps of closure areas can be viewed at the Washington State Department of Health Recreational Shellfish Beach Closures page.
Toxic shellfish do not look or taste any different. The Paralytic Shellfish Poison is not destroyed by any method of preparation or cooking.
The symptoms of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning usually occur within one hour after eating toxic shellfish. Symptoms may include tingling and numbness of the lips and tongue, nausea, vomiting, muscle weakness and difficulty in breathing. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms after eating shellfish.
