Dartmouth, N.S. - Fisheries and Oceans Canada (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 a portion of Annapolis Basin, known as Zone One, Nova Scotia. Coordinates of the area are outlined below.
This closure is due to an increase in levels of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP).
PSP results from eating shellfish that contain naturally occurring 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.
Coordinates of closure:
That portion of Annapolis Basin, Nova Scotia, inside a line drawn from grid reference 7920 5235 at Point Prim, Digby County to grid reference 8050 5230, thence to grid reference 8300 4800, thence to grid reference 9136 4970 and to grid reference 9190 4880 at Shaws Point, Annapolis County. See maps Digby 21 A/12. NAD 27.
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
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FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Communications Branch
Maritimes Region
(902) 426-3550
CommEnquire@mar.dfo-mpo.gc.ca
