South Carolina shellfish harvesting season closing
The season is closed when summer weather kicks in due to bacteria, according to South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) officials.
Vibrio parahaemolyticus are bacteria that naturally live in coastal waters, but higher levels occur when water temperatures exceed 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The bacteria can cause stomach cramps, vomiting and fever if consumed.
Raw or undercook oysters are often a way to contract Vibrio, the CDC reports.
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, officials said.
Shellfish harvesting is expected to reopen Oct. 1, 2025.
Even though recreational harvesting is closed, South Carolina Oyster Recycling and Enhancement (SCORE) works on community-based oyster restoration building oyster habitats using recycled shell. The public is invited to join SCNDR staff to help create the habitats.
SCORE accepts recycled oyster shells year-round. 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.
Check the SCORE webpage for a calendar of events or email the community restoration staff at score@dnr.sc.gov.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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