Red Tide Closures in Maine

[scamlin]

Those of us who like to dine on mussels while camping on the islands of Maine should make a habit of checking warnings and closures on this site.

The Maine DMR today posted red tide closures for most of the coast of maine, affecting harvest of mussels, oysters and clams. Pretty much from the NH border to Canada.

http://www.maine.gov/dmr/rm/public_health/...pspclosures.htm

Or see the Hotline page, which has the text of the phone hotline information. If not at your computer or PDA, you can call the numbers below for updates.

http://www.maine.gov/dmr/rm/public_health/...fishhotline.htm

1-800-232-4733 or 207-633-9571

Note these pages include not only red tide closures but also bacteria closures--usually the result of sewage overflows due to heavy rain or enclosed drainages that are closed seasonally. It's not a pretty picture.

Scott

[vaag]

Is it a problem for sea kayaking in these areas? Is it safe?

Thanks,

[scamlin]

Is it a problem for sea kayaking in these areas? Is it safe?

Thanks,

Kayaking--and all boating--is completely safe. It's only a problem if you eat the shellfish.

Scott

[EEL]

It's only a problem if you eat the shellfish.

I've been told, I don't know that periwinkles are safe to eat even from Red Tide areas.

Only time I've eaten them was at the IAH July 4th parade.

Ed Lawson

[djlewis]

Kayaking--and all boating--is completely safe. It's only a problem if you eat the shellfish.

Scott

Including if you dump surfing, and eat sand containing shellfish!