When cleaning shellfish consider the information below.
Shellfish take in during certain times of the year, marine toxins, produced by some species of diatoms (algae). When ingested by shellfish, these toxins can cause illness and in high concentrations can be fatal to humans. So for humans, clamming is not allowed during high biotoxin times. The Oregon Department Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) and Washington Department Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) in cooperation with the Departments of Health (DOH) sample clams on a routine basis. When high toxins are detected Clam seasons are closed. ODFW, WDFW and DOH work extremely hard to provide a safe and fun resource to enjoy for all clammers. So always contact ODFW or WDFW to check because of the safety relating to shellfish.
Disclaimers
Open Razor Clamming Dates in Washington Frequently Change
Unlike Oregon the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife schedules open Razor Clamming dates a months in advance. But these dates are generally tentative and can change. Almost always, again a few days prior to a dig biotoxin level tests redone. Consequently, a scheduled opening can change the day of a planned dig. Be advised, this is not that much of an inconvenience for locals but can make things exceedingly difficult for visitors.
Clam and Crab Biotoxin Testing
Always check shellfish safety with your States Department of Agriculture. Furthermore, the Departments of Agriculture works in cooperation with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. And also, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife which have collected and tested shellfish for toxins. As a result, the area your clamming in may, or may not, be open and safe. Razorclamming.com accepts no responsibility for the safety of crabs, clams, and similarly for the consumption of any shellfish.
