Fisheries and Oceans Canada has closed the west side of Texada Island to the harvesting of all bivalve shellfish. The closure was due to unacceptable levels of paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP), or red tide.
Clams, oysters, mussels, geoducks, scallops and cockles are included in the ban. PSP toxins can harmfully affect anyone consuming shellfish. Cooking does not destroy the toxin.
Interested readers who need specific information about the closure can call the local DFO office at 604.485.7963 or visit DFO’s website at www.pac.
