shellfish-closure-on-dyes-inlet-in-silverdale-waThe Kitsap County Health District has recently issued an order to close shellfish harvesting on Dyes Inlet due to what is commonly referred to as ‘red tide.’

Some samples of mussels taken this past Monday from the Silverdale Waterfront Park revealed the presence of marine bio-toxins that cause paralytic shellfish poisoning (red tide), according to a statement from officials at the health district.

The closure covers all of Dyes Inlet, including all of the bays and inlets from Rocky Point north to Silverdale. The harvesting of clams, oysters and mussels are prohibited under the order. Warning signs have been posted on all public beaches.

Crabs are not included in the closure, but it is recommended that crabs should be cleaned before cooking and the “crab butter” discarded (sorry, Dad), according to the health district statement.

Symptoms of shellfish poisoning include a tingling in the mouth that can move to the hands and feet, followed by trouble breathing. It can potentially be fatal.

For updates, call (800) 223-9355 or visit www.kitsapcountyhealth.com.

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Rich Jacobson is a licensed real estate professional providing knowledgeable empowerment and relentless representation for his clients of residential properties and vacant land throughout all of Kitsap County WA and portions of Pierce, Mason, and Jefferson Counties. You can also find him at KitsapLife.com and SOUNDBITEBLOG, or e-mail:  kitsapagent@gmail.com