Welcome to Skagit County

October 13, 2023

Recreational Shellfish Closures Lifted in Some Areas of Skagit County

Routine monitoring of shellfish for Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) toxins has shown a decline in the concentration of PSP toxins. In response, the Washington State Department of Health has lifted the following closures for recreational shellfish harvesting:

• WEST FIDALGO ISLAND
• SOUTH SKAGIT
• SIMILK BAY

Additionally, harvesting remains closed to butter and varnish clams at Samish Island. Continued sampling will determine changes in closures due to vibrio, biotoxin, and pollution.

Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning levels can change rapidly. Shellfish harvesters are advised to “Know Before You Dig” by always checking for closures using the Shellfish Safety Map or by calling the Marine Biotoxin Hotline at 1-800-562-5632.

 As a reminder, Washington State Department of Health (DOH) works closely with Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) to ensure safe, legal harvest of shellfish on state beaches. In order to safely and legally harvest shellfish for human consumption, both the DOH health status and the WDFW season for a beach must be OPEN.

Safely Harvesting Shellfish

• Just before you leave to harvest, always check for closures and advisories due to vibrio, biotoxins, and pollution using the Shellfish Safety Map, by contacting your local health department, or by calling the Marine Biotoxin Hotline at 1-800-562-5632.

• Always safely handle, store, and cook shellfish.

• Know your shellfish. If you need a refresher, here is a guide on shellfish identification.
• Learn more about preventing shellfish-related illness here.

For more information about recreational shellfish safety, visit the Washington State Department of Health’s Recreational Shellfish page. For questions, please contact Samantha Russell at srussell@co.skagit.wa.us or call (360) 416-1500.