For Immediate Release 
Contact: Michael Dawson, Water Quality Manager
Jefferson County Public Health
360-385-9444 x301

Port Townsend, WA. Ongoing testing of shellfish in Quilcene Bay has shown that biotoxins have declined. The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) has removed health advisories for all species of shellfish in Quilcene Bay. Jefferson County Public Health has removed danger signs posted at public access points in the area.

High levels of the toxin that produces Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning led to a closure in Quilcene on October 3. Other shellfish closures in Jefferson County continue: Discovery Bay, Fort Flagler, Kilisut Harbor, Mystery Bay, Oak Bay, Mats Mats Bay and Port Ludlow are closed to the recreational harvest of molluscan shellfish. The DOH Shellfish Safety Map shows up-to-date information for recreational shellfish harvesting at www.doh.wa.gov/ShellfishSafety.htm and closure zones are shown in red. Recreational harvesters should also check Fish and Wildlife regulations and seasons at wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/shellfish or the Shellfish Rule Change Hotline 1-866-880-5431.

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Always Working for a Safer & Healthier Jefferson County