REHOBOTH BEACH, Del. (AP) - Delaware environment officials are barring shellfish harvesting in the northwest portion of Love Creek, a tributary of Rehoboth Bay.
Natural Resources and Environmental Control Secretary Collin O'Mara signed an order closing the area to all commercial and recreational shellfish harvesting after water sampling in the area found an increase in an indicator bacteria. The area is monitored for total coliform, an indicator of potentially harmful bacteria and viruses. The cause is under investigation.
The ban applies to clams, oysters and mussels, but not crabs. These filter feeders can accumulate bacteria, viruses and other pollutants and the risk of illness can be greater because they are frequently eaten raw.
The closed area includes the northwest portion of Love Creek from Arnell Creek to just south of Boathouse Lane.
