ODFW release – NEWPORT, Ore – Razor clamming is now open from the Washington border to Cape Blanco (north of Port Orford), the Oregon Department of Agriculture and ODFW announced today. Recent shellfish samples indicate levels of domoic acid (a marine biotoxin) are below the limit for two consecutive weeks. Razor clamming remains closed from Cape Blanco to the California border as domoic acid levels continue to be above the safety threshold. Crab, mussel, and bay clam harvesting are open along the entire Oregon coast. 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.
