Based on a second set of tests for domoic acid toxin, the Peninsula will open for clam digs on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 10, 11 and 12.

The toxin levels have tested in the 2-3 parts per million range, which is well below the required passing grade of 20 ppm domoic acid.

Due to the sunset at 4:30 p.m. on all three days, it is advisable to be an early bird unless you enjoy carrying a lantern and digging in the dark.

Listed below is a low-tide chart and a recommended start time:

Date Sunset Low Tide Start Digging

Fri. 10 4:30 p.m. 5:26 p.m. -1.0 3:00 p.m.

Sat. 11 4:30 p.m. 6:14 p.m. -1.4 3:30 p.m.

Sun.12 4:30 p.m. 7:03 p.m. -1.6 3:45 p.m.

The lower -1.6 minus tide on Sunday should allow you to start a little earlier and complete the dig before dark.

All the beaches on the Washington coast will be open except Kalaloch where the domoic acids levels in razor clams remain elevated from a toxic-producing bloom of algae which washed ashore last July.

This season the Peninsula north of the Oysterville Road approach has traditionally produced the largest clams.

2005 Clamming Dates

To aid in planning your 2005 calendar, WDFW has also announced tentative dates for additional clamming on evening tides through March 2005.

January 2005: 7, 8 and 9

February 2005: 5, 6 and 7

March 2005: 6, 7 and 8

Those interested in harvesting razor clams are reminded that a license is required for anyone age 15 or older. Any shellfish/seaweed or combination license purchased last spring is still valid. Diggers who need to purchase a license should do so before they leave home to avoid delays at coastal license outlets.

The WDFW office in Nahcotta will be open and selling licenses.

Remember, the limit is the first 15 clams that you dig. For those who try to upgrade, the WDFW Enforcement Division will be out in force. Many unwary diggers have been ticketed because they thought no one would notice them putting a small clam back in the hole. The seagull is one of WDFW’s biggest assets. The officers look for gulls diving on the hole that you have just left and whammo! Caught by your feathered friend.