Pierce County Shellfish Advisory Expanded: Health Department

UNIVERSITY PLACE, WA - It's still not safe to go back to the water. The state Department of Health has expanded the size of its ban on recreational shellfishing in Pierce County due to high levels of paralytic shellfish toxin.

Last week, the department issued a ban on harvesting clams, mussels, and oysters at Commencement Bay, Colvos Passage, and through the Tacoma Narrows. The expanded ban now includes the South Narrows from Gordon Point and Yoman Point on Anderson Island, north to the King and Kitsap County lines, including Commencement Bay and Colvos Passage.

Paralytic shellfish poison is as scary as it sounds. In as little as 30 minutes, it can paralyze muscles and cause you to suffocate. In lower levels, it can cause a tingling sensation and nausea. The biotoxin is produced by certain types of algae, which shellfish ingest.

If you're still interested in recreational shellfishing, there are several locations close by that are still open. The southwest side of Fox Island and most of Anderson Island are still open. You can check the status of shellfish harvesting locations in the state here.

Image via Pixabay