OLYMPIA — Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife shellfish managers confirmed on Oct. 11 that razor clam digging opportunities at Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis, and Mocrocks beaches can begin Oct. 14.

“After a successful first tide series of the season, we are excited to announce another round of digs for this weekend, and we’re very happy to get Mocrocks back into the mix,” said Bryce Blumenthal, a WDFW coastal shellfish biologist.

Optimal digging occurs between one and two hours before the listed time of low tide. The following digs during evening (p.m.) low tides will proceed as scheduled, after marine toxin results from the Washington Department of Health showed razor clams are safe to eat:

· Oct. 14, Saturday, 7:17 p.m.; 0.2 feet; Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Mocrocks

· Oct. 15, Sunday,7:52 p.m.; -0.1 feet; Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis

· Oct. 16, Monday, 8:28 p.m.; -0.3 feet; Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Mocrocks

· Oct. 17, Tuesday, 9:06 p.m.; -0.4 feet; Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis

· Oct. 18, Wednesday, 9:49 p.m.; -0.3 feet; only Mocrocks

Marine toxin levels have been decreasing according to the WDOH guidelines. WDOH requires two test samples taken seven to 10 days apart, and domoic acid levels must fall under the guideline level before a beach can reopen for digging. Domoic acid, a natural toxin produced by certain types of marine algae, can be harmful or fatal if consumed in sufficient quantities.