South Coast razor clam closure expanded, Aug. 19

The Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) announce the closure of razor clam harvesting from the south jetty of the Umpqua River to Cape Blanco. Recent shellfish samples taken from the area indicate levels of the marine biotoxin domoic acid have risen above the closure limit. This means razor clamming is now closed from the south jetty of the Umpqua River to the California border. In addition, the ODFW annual razor clam conservation closure is still in effect until Sept. 30, from the Columbia River to Tillamook Head (south of Seaside). This closure is not related to biotoxins. The earliest these beaches could reopen is Oct. 1. This conservation closure does not apply to beaches south of Tillamook Head. Razor clamming remains open from Tillamook Head to the south jetty of the Umpqua River. Mussel harvesting, crabbing and bay clamming is open along the entire Oregon Coast. Coastal scallops are not affected by these closures when only the adductor muscle is eaten. The consumption of whole recreationally harvested scallops is not recommended. Crab, bay clams and oysters are also not affected by this closure and are safe to eat. Commercial shellfish products remain safe for consumers.  Domoic acid is produced by algae and originates in the ocean. ODA will continue to test for shellfish toxins twice per month, as tides permit. Reopening of an area requires two consecutive tests in the safe range. For more information, call ODA’s shellfish safety information hotline at (800) 448-2474, the Food Safety Division at (503) 986-4720, or visit the ODA Recreational Shellfish Closures webpage.