Do you like to eat local oysters and mussels? Time is running out on the season

South Carolina’s season for the harvest of oysters and mussels from State Shellfish Grounds and Public Shellfish Grounds will close next Tuesday 30 minutes after official sunset, according to South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) officials. Clam season will close on May 31.

Because higher bacterial levels occur when water temperatures exceed 80 degrees, shellfish harvesting during the summer months is limited to commercial harvesters who can meet rigorous handling requirements. Coastal waters will remain closed to recreational shellfish harvesting until the fall, when water temperatures begin to cool and ensure that shellfish are once again safe for harvesting and consumption. Shellfish harvesting is expected to reopen Oct. 1.

Although shellfish harvesting is closed during the summer, SCDNR’s oyster shell recycling program accepts oyster shells year-round. Shell recycling drop-off locations are located throughout coastal counties and at a few inland locations. Collection sites can be found online or by calling SCDNR at (843) 953-9397. Other types of shells such as clams and whelks are also accepted.

During the summer months, SCDNR biologists return the recycled shells to shorelines, where they provide an ideal base for juvenile oysters to attach and grow, thereby replenishing harvested beds. When the quantity of shell needed to replant shellfish grounds exceeds that which is recycled, SCDNR must purchase shells at increased cost. SCDNR’s shellfish recycling, restoration and enhancement efforts are funded in part by saltwater recreational fishing license sales.

Late spring and early summer are also busy months for SCDNR’s community oyster restoration program (SCORE). The public is invited to work with SCDNR staff and other volunteers to create oyster habitat using recycled shell. The resulting oyster reefs will provide a host of ecological services including water filtration, nutrient cycling, and habitat for fish and invertebrates. Check the SCORE webpage for a calendar of events or email the community restoration staff at score@dnr.sc.gov.

This story was originally published May 7, 2018 at 11:38 PM with the headline "Do you like to eat local oysters and mussels? Time is running out on the season."