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So much for the state's 4-day razor clam dig -- 3 of those days now canceled

Published  May 6, 2015 7:15pm PDT
Associated Press



OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) — Washington state shellfish managers say they've canceled three days of a planned four-day razor clam dig on ocean beaches because of health concerns about rising toxin levels.

The state Fish and Wildlife Department said Wednesday that razor clam fans will be able to dig them as planned Thursday on Long Beach and Twin Harbors beaches.

The department says domoic acid levels in the clams have been rising since late Monday and could exceed state health guidelines by this weekend.

So coastal shellfish manager Dan Ayres says the clam dig that had been scheduled Friday through Sunday is canceled.

The acid is a natural toxin produced by certain types of marine algae. It can be harmful or even fatal if consumed in sufficient quantities.

Acid levels are assessed through routine testing.