Weather, Science & Travel

Oregon coast beaches closed to mussel and scallop harvesting from Columbia River to Gold Beach

Staff June 15, 2008

The Oregon Department of Agriculture announces the closure of recreational mussel harvesting from the South Jetty of the Columbia River to, and including, Gold Beach due to elevated levels of paralytic shellfish poisoning (or PSP toxins). The closure includes mussels on the beaches, rocks, jetties, and at the entrances to bays in this section of the Oregon Coast.

Coastal scallops are also affected by this closure. Only the adductor muscle should be eaten from scallops harvested on the Oregon coast. Crabs are not affected by this level of toxin and are safe to eat.

All areas on the Oregon Coast south of Gold Beach have remained open to all recreational shellfish harvesting.

Shellfish toxins are produced by algae and usually originate in the ocean. Shellfish contaminated with PSP toxins can cause minor to severe illness or even death. The symptoms usually begin with tingling of the mouth and tongue. Severe poisoning can result in dizziness, numbness and tingling in the arms and legs, paralysis of the arms and legs, and paralysis of the muscles used for breathing.

ODA will continue to test for shellfish toxins weekly, as tides permit. Reopening of an area requires two consecutive tests within the safe range.

For more information, call the ODA shellfish safety information hotline at 800‑448‑2474, the Food Safety Division at 503-986-4720 or visit the ODA shellfish closures Web page.

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