Sport Crabbing To Close In Willapa Bay ( Marine Area 2-1)

Close sport crab fishing in Willapa Bay (Marine Area 2-1)

Action: Close the sport crab fishery in Marine Area 2-1 (Willapa Bay) effective immediately until further notice.

Effective date: Immediately

Species affected: All species of crab

Location: Marine Area 2-1

Reason for action: A closure of the sport crab fishery is needed after routine testing showed domoic acid levels in crab exceeded standards established by the Washington Department of Health. Domoic acid, a natural toxin produced by certain types of marine algae, can be harmful or even fatal if consumed in sufficient quantities. There is insufficient time to adopt permanent rules.

Information contact: Heather Reed, (360) 249-4628 ext. 202