Oregon and Washington Remind Industry That Decision to Delay Dungness Season Isn't Unusual
SEAFOODNEWS.COM by Susan Chambers November 23, 2015
Oregon and Washington fishery officials announced a delay to the December 1 start to commercial Dungeness crab fishing because of high levels of domoic acid in the fishery, but are reminding market participants that such opening delays are not uncommon for this fishery.
On Friday, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife officials notified crabbers and the public that the Oregon season – which could have opened on Dec. 1 – would be delayed until at least Dec. 15. Washington fisheries managers also made the decision to delay the southern portion of the coast, from Klipsan Beach to the Columbia River, which normally opens in conjunction with Oregon. Washington, Oregon and California continue to test for the naturally occurring toxin to ensure crab that is sold is safe.
Domoic acid is a naturally occurring toxin that likely will decrease over time. This isn’t the first time it has been detected and it comes and goes in cycles, say industry leaders...
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