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June 13, 2008

Red tide forces closure of Boston Harbor shellfish beds

BOSTON — Public health officials have closed shellfish beds in Boston Harbor for the first time in 36 years in response to a spreading red tide along the Massachusetts coast.

The ban on shellfish harvesting now extends from the New Hampshire border to the Bourne-Sandwich town line, with the exception of a small area along Plymouth, Kingston, and Duxbury.

Officials say about 50 fishermen harvest an average 15,000 to 20,000 bushels of clams annually in Boston Harbor.

Red tide is a toxic algae that concentrates in shellfish, making them dangerous for humans to eat. Crabs, lobsters and shrimp are not affected.

Michael Hickey, chief biologist for the state’s shellfish sanitation management program, says although the livelihoods of some fishermen will be affected, the agency’s top concern is public health.

-- The Associated Press

Posted by Brandie Jefferson  at 9:38 AM | Permalink

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