Areas Closed to Shellfish Harvesting

Dartmouth N.S. -- The Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) advises the public that the harvesting of bi-valve molluscs for recreational or commercial purposes is prohibited until further notice on Campobello Island, Grand Manan Island, Deer Island and all mainland harvest areas from the Maine border to the Nova Scotia border.

This closure is due to an increase in the levels of marine biotoxins associated with Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP). PSP results from eating shellfish that contain toxins. These toxins are derived from planktonic organisms called dinoflagellates. Shellfish are filter feeders that ingest and accumulate these toxic dinoflagellates in their system. When the right conditions are present (water temperature, salinity, weather patterns, nutrient requirements, etc.), levels of concentration can increase. As these rises are unpredictable, detailed control measures must be put into place to ensure that the health and safety of the public is protected.

For more detailed information on shellfish closures in your area, please call the shellfish information line at 1-800-665-8045 or contact your local Fishery Officer. For more information on how to protect yourself and your family against PSP, please contact the Canadian Food Inspection Agency or visit the website http://www.inspection.gc.ca.

For information:

Wendy Williams
Communications
DFO, Maritimes Region
(902) 426-6409

Media Relations
Canadian Food Inspection Agency
(613) 228-6682