Heavy rains prompt state to call for voluntary closure of shellfish beds

By Associated Press

Summary

The state Department of Health has asked for a voluntary closure of the Samish Bay shellfish beds until results come back from water samples taken yesterday.

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Story Published: Aug 21, 2008 at 8:13 PM PST

Story Updated: Nov 21, 2008 at 12:02 AM PST

SAMISH BAY, Wash. (AP) - The state Department of Health has asked for a voluntary closure of the Samish Bay shellfish beds until results come back from water samples taken yesterday.

State health officials say the request came after two days of heavy rains, which tend to trigger a rise in levels of fecal coliform.

Officials say three similar closures have happened since May.

Shellfish with high levels of the bacteria can cause illness in humans if eaten raw.