The Virginia Department of Health regulates safe shellfish harvest areas based on the level of bacteria contamination. Shellfish standards are very rigorous. Each year, the data is evaluated and new boundaries are established. As you know, last year we had fantastic news with the opening of 1462 acres (29%) of the Lynnhaven to shellfish harvest, some areas for the first time since the 1930’s. The new 2008 closure maps from the Department of Health were released today and we have more great news!

Not only have we maintained the areas that were opened last year, we have increased the open areas by 112 acres to reach 38% of the Lynnhaven River meeting the rigorous bacteria standard for safe shellfish harvest.

• Broad Bay
• Linkhorn Bay
• Eastern Branch
• Western Branch