Mussel harvesting is back from Cape Blanco to the California border, according to a joint announcement by the Oregon Department of Agriculture and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. The decision follows an assessment of marine biotoxin levels, renewing opportunities for shellfish enthusiasts along the Southern Oregon coastline.
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Mussel harvest reopens from Cape Blanco to California border
Photo by Curry Coastal Pilot
Key Takeaways:
- Mussel harvesting reopens between Cape Blanco and the California border
- Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) and Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) made this announcement
- Marine biotoxin levels inform state decisions on shellfish safety
- The story was published by Curry Coastal Pilot on January 25, 2026
- The reopening offers renewed access for local harvesters
Reopening the Coast
Mussel harvesting is now permitted again from Cape Blanco to the California border. This reopening was announced by the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW), following their monitoring of local marine conditions. According to the agencies, the area south of Cape Blanco has been cleared for harvest after an assessment of “marine biotoxin levels.”
Why Marine Biotoxin Levels Matter
Marine biotoxins can affect mussel safety, and state officials have the responsibility to shut down harvesting when these levels are uncertain or deemed unsafe. Although the full details of the marine biotoxin data were not disclosed in the announcement, the mention of “marine biotoxin levels” is key to understanding why harvesting was restricted and is now presumably safe.
What Harvesters Need to Know
Local shellfish enthusiasts can continue or resume their activities with the reassurance that authorities have deemed the coast south of Cape Blanco safe for mussel harvesting. Those heading out to collect should do so with an awareness that guidelines can change if future biotoxin readings fluctuate. Updated information is typically provided by ODA and ODFW, so harvesters are advised to stay informed and follow any new advisories.
Coordinated Efforts from ODA and ODFW
The Oregon Department of Agriculture and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife conducted the assessments needed to determine the timing of this reopening. Both agencies are involved in monitoring shellfish safety and ensuring the public receives timely updates. Their collaboration reflects an ongoing commitment to balancing environmental concerns with Oregonians’ interest in harvesting local mussels.
No additional information about restrictions or guidelines was detailed in the original news feed, but further announcements from ODA and ODFW can help keep the community informed about any changes in shellfish safety along the Southern Oregon coast.
