Biotoxin Monitoring Program

Hundreds of sites in Atlantic Canada, Quebec and British Columbia are regularly tested for PSP toxins. The Agency analyzes shellfish samples and, when levels are unacceptable, it notifies the Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) which takes immediate action to close the affected area to shellfish harvesting. When areas are closed, signs are posted, media are notified, and DFO fishery officers patrol the areas to prevent the harvesting of shellfish.

With an area of 250,000 square kilometres, over 35 commercially harvested marine species and a great variety of fish in its rivers and estuaries, the Gulf of St. Lawrence constitutes one of the world's largest enclosed seas, a highly productive ecosystem, and a major arena of commercial fishing in Atlantic Canada. Waterbody or Watershed Names: Gulf of Saint Lawrence Sponsor: Canadian Food Inspection Agency Additional Information OR Comments: Fact sheets are available from the website.

Other information on closures and fishing maps are available at glf.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/os/aes-sae/dapr-radp/index-e.php?to_doE=refs&subject_cdE=6&rep_idE=r3 A file containing all pertinent sanitary survey information, including the dates and results of preceding surveys and reports is maintained by the shellfish control agency for each classified shellfish area.