Recreational harvests closed until Aug. 9 due to potential pollution from a July 19 sewage overflow at the West Point Treatment Plant in Seattle.
The Kitsap Public Health District, in conjunction with Washington State Department of Health Shellfish Program, has closed recreational shellfish harvesting until Aug. 9 in response to the West Point Treatment Plant sewage overflow.
CLOSURE AREA: The eastern and northern shorelines of Bainbridge Island, north of Eagle Harbor, and the Port Madison/Indianola area from the Agate Pass Bridge to Point Jefferson. View the shellfish safety map for more details. Existing shellfish closures remain in effect.
SPECIES AFFECTED: All recreational shellfish harvesting for all species of clams, oysters, and mussels.
Shrimp and crab are not included in this closure, but crabs should be cleaned prior to cooking, and the “crab butter” should be discarded. Shellfish harvested commercially that are available in stores and restaurants are tested for toxins prior to distribution, and are safe to eat.
Anyone planning to harvest or consume local, recreationally-harvested shellfish must first:
1) Check the safety status of shellfish harvesting:
2) Check the harvest seasons and licensing requirements:
Washington
State Department of Fish and Wildlife website
1-866-880-5431
MEDIA CONTACT:
Tad Sooter | Public Information Officer Kitsap Public Health District 345 6th St., Suite 300 | Bremerton, WA 98337 (360) 728-2330 Office | (360) 908-8892 Cell pio@kitsappublichealth.org | kitsappublichealth.org
