BELLINGHAM, Wash. – Recreational shellfish harvesters can once again dig up butter clams at some of Whatcom County’s beaches.

Whatcom County Health and Community Services says paralytic shellfish poison levels in the clams have dropped to safer levels in Bellingham and Chuckanut Bays.

However, varnish clam harvesting at both areas remains closed, as PSP toxins are still high in that species.

Butter and varnish clam harvesting remains closed at Larrabee State Park and other southern Whatcom County beaches.

Harvesters are encouraged to check on biotoxin levels and closures regularly to avoid PSP and other toxin exposure.