With all of the recent closures in recreational clamming and commercial crabbing, it’s difficult to know what to share with visitors about how they can enjoy these activities safely. The Seaside Visitors Bureau keeps track of this information and we are happy to answer any questions for visitors, but we also want our local businesses to be knowledgeable about what is happening.
Closures throughout the 2015 year have all been the result of a toxin called Demoic Acid, which is produced by algae and originate in the ocean. According to Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, demoic acid or amnesic shellfish toxin can cause minor to severe illness and even death. Severe poisoning can result in dizziness, headaches, vomiting and diarrhea. More severe cases can result in memory loss and death. Toxins cannot be removed by cooking, freezing or any other treatment.
This toxin has resulted in previous and current shellfish closures. Currently the commercial crab season is closed statewide. Recreational crabbing, crabbing from the shore, is open from Heceta Head and north to the Oregon border with Washington. Razor Clamming is closed state wide. There is no news about when these closures may be reversed; however, Kelly Corbett with ODFW says that, “Crab and shellfish products sold in retail markets and restaurants remain safe for consumers.”
For current information on shellfish closures, either call the Shellfish Safety Information hotline at (800) 448-2474, or visit this site.
