ODFW release – ASTORIA, Ore – The Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) and ODFW announce the opening of razor clam harvesting at from the north jetty of the Siuslaw River to Seal Rock. Recent shellfish samples indicate levels of domoic acid (a marine biotoxin) are below the limit for two consecutive weeks. Razor clamming is still open from the Washington border to Tillamook Head. Other areas of the coast remain closed due to elevated domoic acid levels. The daily razor clam limit is the first 15 clams dug, regardless of size or condition. Each digger must have their own container, dig their own clams, and can only have one limit in possession while in the clam digging area (see exception under an Oregon Disabilities Hunting and Fishing Permit.) Clam diggers can check tides online and go to ODFW’s clamming page for more information on razor clamming. Domoic acid is produced by algae and originates in the ocean. ODA will continue testing for shellfish toxins at least twice per month, as tides and weather permit. Reopening an area closed for biotoxins requires two consecutive tests with results below the closure limit. For more information call ODA’s shellfish biotoxin hotline at (800) 448-2474, the ODA Food Safety Program at (503) 986-4720, or visit the ODA Recreational Shellfish Biotoxin Closures Webpage. Contact ODFW for recreational license requirements, permits, rules, and limits.
