Shellfish harvesting is returning to Holmes Harbor after a nearly nine-year hiatus.

After years of testing water and shellfish in Holmes Harbor, the State Department of Health and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife agreed to open the shellfish season in Holmes Harbor from April 1 to May 15.

Several issues were identified in Holmes Harbor back in 2006. Bad septic systems, storm water runoff and animal waste at Freeland Park were among the top offenders. Wrack buildup at the public beach was also an issue and is one reason the returned season is much shorter than other areas in the state.

A fish and wildlife shellfish permit is required to collect shellfish from the public beach. Anyone planning to consume shellfish should check the Department of Health website first or call 1-800-562-5632.