Budd Inlet Closes to Shellfish Harvest due to Biotoxin

CONTACT: Renae Miller, Public Information Supervisor, Thurston County Public Health and Social Services, (360) 463-0362 or phss.communication@thurstoncountywa.gov; Dr. Jen Freiheit, Director, Thurston County Public Health and Social Services

Shellfish Harvest Biotoxin Closure
Marine biotoxin that causes Diarrhetic Shellfish Poisoning (DSP) was detected at unsafe levels in shellfish in Budd Inlet. 

OLYMPIA – High levels of the biotoxin that produces diarrhetic shellfish poisoning (DSP) were detected in shellfish at unsafe levels, prompting closure of recreational shellfish harvesting for all species in Budd Inlet. Warning signs will be posted at public beaches at Burfoot County Park. 

Biotoxins are produced by naturally occurring plankton, which can become concentrated in shellfish. Biotoxins do not harm shellfish but can cause illness or death in humans and other mammals that eat them. Cooking does not destroy the toxin and does not make the shellfish safe to eat. Diarrhetic Shellfish Poisoning causes nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.  Learn more about shellfish safety at: Shellfish Protection District | Thurston County

Harvesters should always check the shellfish safety map found online at www.doh.wa.gov/community-and-environment/shellfish­/recreational-shellfish or by calling 1-800-562-5632 for a recorded hotline of biotoxin closures. More information is available on the website. 

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