In April, our community celebrated the reopening of spring shellfish harvest in Portage Bay. The Washington State Department of Health announced the spring reopening, recognizing community actions to reduce fecal bacteria pollution in the Nooksack River watershed that flows to Portage Bay. With recovery of spring harvest achieved, Portage Bay remains closed to harvest only three months a year during the fall.

Fall is a challenging time for improving water quality and requires consistent efforts to address preventable sources of fecal bacteria pollution. After months of dry summer weather, fecal bacteria from sources such as farm animals and pets build up on the land. Fall rains pick up pollutants and carry them into our ditches and creeks and downstream to our bays and harbors. Fecal bacteria pollution limits people’s ability to safely work in, play in, and harvest food from local waters.

We have tips for farms, septic systems, pet waste, boats and RVs, and urban wildlife to help you find a way to contribute to the solution.
Click here for tips and more information about how you can help prevent pollution closures