5-1-13 PSP levels rising - Old Harbor, Alaska, USA
Observation: Levels of Paralytic Shellfish Poison (PSP) causing toxins in butter clams harvested in the Old Harbor area are rising. The levels in the May samples, analyzed at the ADEC laboratory exceeded the USDA level for safe consumption. There have been 2 samples collected so far from this site and both have been above the regulatory limit of 80 ug/100 g tissue; actual levels were 244 ug/100g. These levels are higher then samples collected in March, and we are concerned that the environmental conditions have changed and may no longer be safe for consumption of shellfish. Bobbie Ann Barnowski
Resource:
Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation – "There are NO beaches that are certified or designated as "safe" beaches for shellfish harvesting in Alaska. All recreationally-harvested shellfish- including clams, mussels, oysters, geoducks, and scallops - may contain paralytic shellfish toxin (PST) that, if ingested, can cause death."
"Get medical help immediately if you experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and tingling or burning lips, gums, tongue, face, neck, arms, legs, and toes, shortness of breath, dry mouth, a choking feeling, confused or slurred speech, and lack of coordination."
"If you choose to harvest shellfish in Alaska, it is important that you know the facts about PSP, know the species you plan to harvest, and know the symptoms, to learn more, review ADEC's PSP factsheet and get help quickly!"
Observations From Members 