South Carolina's shellfish harvesting season will close May 31

South Carolina's 2018-19 season for the harvest of oysters, mussels, clams and all other bivalves from State Shellfish Grounds and Public Shellfish Grounds will close May 31 at one half hour after official sunset, according to South Carolina Department of Natural Resources officials.

Because higher bacterial levels occur when water temperatures exceed 80 degrees Fahrenheit, 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 to the public during the summer, the South Carolina Oyster Recycling and Enhancement program accepts recycled oyster shells year 'round. Shell recycling drop-off locations are 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 shell, 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 shells needed to replant shellfish grounds exceeds that which is recycled, SCDNR must purchase shells at an increasing cost. Even a modest increase in recycled shells can save a significant amount of money. 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 SCORE's community-based oyster restoration work. 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.