The Washington Department of Health has closed more beaches for shellfish harvest. The closure was triggered after samples showed elevated levels of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning toxin.

The following beaches in Clallam County are closed to shellfish collection for the species noted.

• Seasonal closure of ocean beaches – all species

• The Strait of Juan de Fuca from Jefferson County westward to Cape Flattery – all species

• Dungeness Bay, Sequim Bay and Discovery Bay – all species

All species means clams (including geoduck), oyster, mussels and other invertebrates such as the moon snail. All areas are closed for the sport harvest of scallops. These closures do not apply to shrimp. Crab meat is not known to contain the PSP toxin, but the guts can contain unsafe levels. To be safe, clean crab thoroughly and discard the guts (butter).

For more information, call the Marine Biotoxin Hotline at 800-562-5632, visit http://ww4.doh.wa.gov/gis/biotoxin.htm or call Clallam County Environmental Health at 417-2328.