Razor clam digging to open next week at Copalis, Mocrocks

OLYMPIA — Razor clam digging begins Oct. 14 at Copalis and Mocrocks beaches, plus possibly at Twin Harbors.

But Long Beach will remain closed because marine toxin tests show domoic acid levels exceed state health safety standards, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife announced today.

“This isn’t an ideal way to start a razor clam season, but public health has to be our first priority,’’ said Dan Ayres, coastal shellfish manager for the department. “We’re hopeful that this condition will clear up soon.’’

Ayres said recent tests have found toxin levels at Twin Harbors meet safety standards, but the state Department of Health has asked for one more test to make sure. The Department of Fish and Wildlife will announce the results of that test on Monday.

Digging at Mocrocks and Copalis will be allowed Oct. 14 through 16. Low tides are 0.2 feet at 5:55 p.m. Oct. 14, -0.6 feet at 6:42 p.m. Oct. 15 and -1.1 feet at 7:28 p.m. Oct. 16.

Elevated levels of domoic acid forced shellfish managers to cut short the spring razor clam season. Ocean beaches in Oregon are closed due to domoic acid, which is natural toxin produced by certain types of marine algae.

An annual razor clam license costs $14.10 for Washington residents. The license year is from April 1 through March 31. A three-day razor clam license costs $9.70 for state residents.