The Kitsap Sun reported that shellfish beds in Port Gamble Bay are now open for harvest after 12 years of being closed because of high toxic chemical levels.
From the story:
A health assessment, completed earlier this year, concluded that toxic chemicals in shellfish from the area were below levels of concern for commercially grown shellfish, said Scott Berbells of the state’s Office of Shellfish and Water Protection, a division of the Department of Health. The area was closed in 2002 when concerns were raised about chemical contamination in Port Gamble Bay.
…
Paul McCollum, director of natural resources for the Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe, said tribal members are interested in harvesting shellfish from the area, as allowed by treaty. Under federal court decisions, tribes are entitled to half the naturally occurring shellfish that can be harvested.
McCollum said tribal officials are preparing for a survey to determine the amount of shellfish available. After that, tribal officials will work with the county on a harvest-management plan.
