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May 19th, 2011

Revised: Samish Bay shellfish beds reopened; still closed to recreationally harvested varnish clams due to Paralytic Shellfish Toxin (Red Tide)

SKAGIT COUNTY - The Washington State Department of Health reopened Samish Bay shellfish beds today, May 19, 2011. The bay was previously closed due to high fecal coliform counts; however, recently-collected water quality monitoring data verified the bay is again safe for shellfish harvest.
Samish Bay is still closed, however, to recreational shellfish harvesting of varnish clams due to elevated levels of Paralytic Shellfish Toxin (Red Tide). This closure will remain until additional sampling indicates toxin levels have declined.
For more information, contact Jeanne King at the Skagit County Health Department at (360) 336-9380.