DHH Reopens Some Oyster Harvest Areas

Change in tropical storm forecasts prompt decision

Saturday, October 5, 2013  |  Contact: Ken Pastorick; (225) 342-1881 or (225) 335-0235 (cell)

The Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals announced today the reopening of oyster harvest Areas 13-23, which are located from Hackberry Bay in Jefferson Parish to Oyster Bayou in Terrebonne Parish, effective a half an hour before sunrise October 6. The decision to reopen these areas came after new tropical storm forecasts diminished the possible impact to these harvest areas. These areas were closed as a precautionary measure in advance of Tropical Storm Karen.

DHH State Health Officer Dr. Jimmy Guidry signed the order today to reopen Areas 13-23.   

The precautionary closure of oyster harvest Areas 1-12 remains in place until such time as state health officials determine the waters are clear and within approved criteria established by the National Shellfish Sanitation Program.

Water standards for oyster harvesting are set by the Interstate Shellfish Sanitation Conference. DHH has the authority to close these waters under LSA-R.S. 40:5, 3.

The Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals strives to protect and promote health statewide and to ensure access to medical, preventive and rehabilitative services for all state citizens. To learn more about DHH, visit www.dhh.louisiana.gov. For up-to-date health information, news and emergency updates, follow DHH's Twitter account and Facebook.

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