BRUNSWICK, Ga. (WSAV) — Georgia’s state salt waters will be closed to commercial and recreational oyster harvesting for human consumption Sunday.

Salt waterways are closed to harvesting during warmer months when the risk of shellfish-related illnesses are elevated, a Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Coastal Division spokesperson said.

Vibrio parahaemolyticus are bacteria that naturally live in coastal waters but are found in higher numbers when water temperatures are warmer. The bacteria can cause stomach cramps, vomiting and fever if consumed.

Raw or undercook oysters are often a way to contract Vibrio, the CDC reports.

The seasonal closure will go into effect at 6 a.m. June 1 and extends through midnight on Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2025. Oyster harvesting season is expected to reopen at 7 a.m. Oct. 1.

The closure applies to all salt waters from the Georgia-South Carolina state line to the Georgia-Florida border. 

For more information, contact the Coastal Resources Division at 912-264-7218.