Parts of Southold Closed to Shellfishing After Heavy Rain

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation announced on Friday the closure of shell fishing in all of Hallock Bay (Long Beach Bay) and all town waters in thebetween Cleeves Point and Orient Point, including , Oyster Pond and Marion Lake.

Temporary emergency closures, which will remain in effect through June 30, were made in response to the large volume of storm water runoff caused by Thursday's heavy rainfall that is still affecting the entire East End of Long Island. The amount of storm water runoff that had entered local creeks and bays might cause shellfish, who need extra time to process possible toxins in the storm water, to be hazardous for food, according to the DEC.

Department officials say they will reopen affected waters as soon as possible based on the results of bacteriological analyses of water samples that will be collected next week. 

For updates on the closures call 631-444-0480 for a recorded message or call the DEC at 631-444-0475.