ODFW Annual Razor Clam Conservation Closure in Effect, July 16

The annual ODFW razor clam conservation closure is in effect from July 15 to September 30 to protect the newly-set young clams. This conservation closure is not related to biotoxins. The conservation closure is for the Clatsop Beaches only, from the Columbia River south to Tillamook Head. The earliest razor clamming on the Clatsop Beaches could open is October 1st. Please note this conservation closure does not apply to beaches south of Tillamook Head. Razor clamming is open from Tillamook Head (south of Seaside) south to Cape Arago (south of Coos Bay). Razor clamming remains closed from Cape Arago to the California border for elevated levels of the marine biotoxin domoic acid. Recreational mussel, bay clam and crab harvesting is open along the entire Oregon Coast. Coastal scallops are not affected by biotoxin closures when only the adductor muscle is eaten. The consumption of whole recreational scallops is not recommended. Commercial shellfish products 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 requires to consecutive tests with results below the limit. For more information call ODA’s shellfish safety information hotline at (800) 448-2474, the ODA Food Safety Division at (503) 986-4720, or visit the ODA Recreational Shellfish Biotoxin Closures webpage.