NOTICE: Use of the information on these pages is at the reader's own risk. The shellfish maps on this web site are intended for general information and are updated on a yearly basis. They are based on bacteriological contamination only and may be superseded by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Regulations.

For the most up to date information and BEFORE HARVESTING SHELLFISH FROM ANY AREA, contact the nearest Department of Fisheries and Oceans office.

A wide selection of seafood delicacies is one of the great attractions of Canada's coastal provinces. Contamination from many sources including human and industrial waste are threats to our Atlantic shellfish resources. This is an increasing concern among health and environmental agencies, the shellfish aquaculture industry and consumers.

Through the Shellfish Water Quality Protection Program, Environment Canada is responsible for monitoring bacterial water quality in shellfish growing areas. These surveys represent a substantial commitment of effort and resources to ensure the proper evaluation of approximately 25,000 km of Atlantic coastline. Water surveys are used to determine the classification of coastal waters as to their suitability for the harvesting of molluscan shellfish. The surveys are based on the sanitary and bacteriological water quality conditions in the area.

The Shellfish Water Quality Protection Program also promotes pollution prevention, remediation and restoration of shellfish growing areas. Eliminating or controlling pollution sources advances the health of both the shellfish industry and the marine environment and enables health officials to open more sections of the shoreline to shellfish harvesting.

For further information on the Shellfish Water Quality Protection Program:

Shellfish and Water Quality Fact Sheet
Shellfish Growing Area Classification Maps
Maritimes Coastal Molluscan Harvesting Guide
Detailed information on the Canadian Shellfish Sanitation Program

Send your comments to: Environment Canada