One-day razor clam dig at Grayland opens Friday, May 5, 2000

MONTESANO - The second one-day razor clam dig of spring on the Grayland/Westport beaches will open Friday (May 5) as scheduled, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife confirmed today. Digging will be allowed in the morning (a.m.) hours only.

Final marine toxin test results received from the Washington Department of Health showed that clams dug on those beaches are safe to eat.

The open area, known as Twin Harbors Beach, includes the North Cove, Grayland and Westport areas. The dig is the last recreational razor-clam opening of the spring season.

No other coastal beaches will be open for recreational digging, since the state's share of the total allowable catch already has been reached. Members of the Quinault Indian Nation will be digging on the Copalis to Ocean Shores area of beach during the spring to harvest their share of the total allowable catch.

Kalaloch will remain closed due to elevated levels of domoic acid.

Diggers are reminded that they must have their 2000-2001 shellfish licenses and licenses must be displayed on clothing while harvesting clams.

To dig clams recreationally, an annual shellfish/seaweed license costs $7 for residents age 16 to 69. For seniors age 70 and older, the annual license costs $5, which is also the cost of a combination license required for residents and non-residents age 15. For non-residents age 16 and older, the annual license costs $20. A two-day license available for $6 allows residents and non-residents to dig clams as well as go fishing in fresh or salt water during two consecutive days.

Diggers must keep the first 15 razor clams harvested, regardless of size or condition, and each digger's limit must be kept in a separate container. Diggers are advised that many small clams are showing up on the beach this spring so look for the larger "shows" or holes in the sand which usually will produce a larger clam.