NR-MAR-04-07E
AREAS IN SOUTHWEST NEW BRUNSWICK CLOSED TO SHELLFISH HARVESTING
June 11, 2004
Dartmouth, N.S. - The Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) advises the public that the harvesting of bi-valve molluscs, including oysters, clams, mussels, scallops, quahogs and whelks, for recreational or commercial purposes is prohibited until further notice in Passamaquoddy Bay and the St. Croix River in New Brunswick. In addition, the area around Deer Island and surrounding islands is closed.
This closure is due to an increase in levels of 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 in place to ensure that the health and safety of the public is protected.
For additional information on shellfish closures in your area, please contact your local DFO office.
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Additional information can be found in the DFO Backgrounder, Shellfish Harvest Closures, available at:
http://www.mar.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/communications/maritimes/back03e/B-MAR-03-(3E).html
FOR MORE INFORMATION::
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