For the Public
Biotoxins and Shellfish-Related Illnesses
Prevent Shellfish-Related Illnesses
» More Recreational Shellfish Resources
Water Quality Monitoring and Improvements
Shellfish Growing Area Monitoring
About Our Program
Washington has a reputation for safe, wholesome shellfish. Our state is the leading producer of farmed shellfish in the nation, and commercial product is shipped around the world. Miles of Puget Sound shoreline and Washington coastal beaches attract hundreds of thousands of recreational harvesters each year.
We regularly test bivalve molluscan shellfish and the water where they grow to make sure the shellfish are safe to eat. We license and inspect commercial shellfish operations to make sure shellfish intended for markets and restaurants are harvested, handled, and shipped in a safe and sanitary manner. When environmental or operational conditions pose a threat to public health, we take action.