News

Recreational shellfish harvesting closed in north Whatcom County

9 years ago in Local

File photo of a sign warning the public not to eat shellfish from closed beaches on the Semiahmoo spit. Photo: KGMI

KGMI News
By Joe Teehan

FERNDALE, Wash. – Two north Whatcom County beaches are closed to recreational shellfish harvesting.

The county health department says tests have found dangerous levels of paralytic shellfish poisoning biotoxin at Birch Bay and Drayton Harbor.

All recreational shellfish harvesting is now closed from Sandy Point to the Canadian border, including Point Roberts.

Crab meat is not affected by the toxin, but the crab butter and entrails can contain it.

Shellfish sold in stores and restaurants has been tested and is safe to eat.

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