California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) Director Meghan Hertel has closed the recreational razor clam fishery in Del Norte County. This closure comes following a recommendation from state health agencies that determined consumption of razor clams in the area poses a significant threat to human health for domoic acid exposure.
Domoic acid is a neurotoxin produced by a naturally occurring marine alga species, Pseudo-nitzschia. Algal blooms of these species can be driven by unusually warmer water temperatures. Domoic acid can accumulate in shellfish, other invertebrates and sometimes fish without the organisms themselves becoming ill. Domoic acid exposure in humans at low levels can cause nausea, diarrhea and dizziness. At higher levels, it can cause persistent short-term memory loss, seizures and, in severe cases, death.
Samples collected in late September at Crescent Beach in Del Norte County (PDF) found clams exceeding the current federal action level for domoic acid of greater than or equal to 20 parts per million. CDFW will be coordinating with health agencies to determine when this area may be reopened. The recreational razor clam fishery in Humboldt County remains closed due to elevated levels of domoic acid. The closure, which began in May 2024, remains in effect until state health agencies determine razor clams no longer pose a health risk.
For the latest information on current fishing season closures related to domoic acid, visit CDFW’s fishery closure information and health advisories website or call CDFW’s Domoic Acid Fishery Closure Information Line at (831) 649-2883.
For the latest consumption warnings, please check for any razor clam health advisory information on the CDPH's shellfish advisories page or by calling the CDPH’s Biotoxin Information Line at (510) 412-4643 or toll-free at (800) 553-4133.
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Media Contacts:
Christy Juhasz, CDFW Marine Region, (707) 292-2480
Krysten Kellum, CDFW Communications, (916) 825-7120