Ban covers Port Madison Bay

Published 1:30 am Friday, November 11, 2016

Shellfish harvesting has been banned in Port Madison Bay after health district officials found high levels of marine biotoxins in shellfish samples taken on Nov. 1.

According to the Kitsap Public Health District, biotoxins that can cause

diarrhetic shellfish poisoning (DSP) were found in the tissue of shellfish that had been collected in Port Madison Bay.

DSP concentrations were detected at 28 micrograms per 100 grams of shellfish tissue; harvesting is closed when DSP toxin levels meet or exceed 16 micrograms per 100 grams of shellfish tissue.

DSP causes nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, with diarrhea being the most commonly reported symptom.

The closure covers 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.

The closure area covers Port Madison Bay, and from Port Jefferson south to Point Monroe.

Warning signs have been posted at public beaches to warn people not to collect shellfish.