Red Tide closures are imposed by the Maine Department of Marine Resources to protect consumers of shellfish from Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP). Red Tide closures usually occur in the warm weather months when an algae called Alexandrium grows very rapidly, creating toxic blooms. When clams and mussels ingest these algae they can potentially cause harm to the humans that consume them. The DMR monitors shellfish meat samples weekly or more frequently during the warm weather months to assure consumers that the Maine shellfish they are buying are safe.
We will post maps of Red Tide closure areas here as data becomes available from the Maine Department of Marine Resources.
For the most current Red Tide closure information please go to the DMR website or call the DMR Hotline at 1-800-232-4733.