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News Release
RI Department of Environmental Management
235 Promenade Street, Providence, RI 02908
(401) 222-2771 TDD/(401) 222-4462
For Release: October 18, 2005
Contact: Gail Mastrati 222-4700 ext. 2402
Stephanie Powell 222-4700 ext. 4418

DEM: EXTENSIVE AREAS OF STATE WATERS REMAIN CLOSED TO SHELLFISHING
First Sampling Results Expected by Friday

PROVIDENCE - The Department of Environmental Management reminds Rhode Islanders that due to extreme sewage overflows experienced during the recent storm emergency, most bay waters of the state and all south coastal ponds remain closed to shellfishing until further notice.

Closure areas include all waters north of Black Point to Beavertail Point to Brenton Point, and all waters north of Sachuest Point to Sakonnet Point; also, all waters from Point Judith to Watch Hill, including all south coastal ponds.

DEM continues to evaluate the situation and has begun sampling to determine when waters will be safe for shellfishing. Historic data indicates that Areas A and B will remain closed for at least 10 days. The South Coast shore ponds and areas south of the southern tip of Prudence Island may improve sooner. Extensive sampling is being conducted today and will be conducted again later in the week, with results expected to be available on Friday. Based upon the results of these bacteria tests, decisions will be made as to whether additional sampling is needed or whether conditions allow for the waters to be re-opened for shellfish harvesting.

DEM maintains a recorded telephone information line, 222-2900, with the most updated information on shellfish closures.

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