Thursday, July 2, 2026
The recent sewer overflow in the Merrimack River has temporarily cl...
The recent sewer overflow in the Merrimack River has temporarily closed shellfishing areas in parts of the North Shore, but consumers can remain confident in the safety of Massachusetts shellfish available in restaurants and markets.
The Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries maintains rigorous safety standards through ongoing water quality and shellfish testing, rapid area closures when needed, and close coordination with public health officials, local shellfish constables, and harvesters to protect public health.
For answers to frequently asked questions about the Haverhill sewer force main break, including shellfish safety, visit:
https://www.mass.gov/info-details/sewer-force-main-break-in-haverhill-frequently-asked-questions#are-shellfish-at-restaurants-and-markets-safe-to-eat](https://www.mass.gov/info-details/sewer-force-main-break-in-haverhill-frequently-asked-questions#are-shellfish-at-restaurants-and-markets-safe-to-eat)
#MerrimackRiver #NorthShore #Shellfish #SafeToEat #PublicHealth #DMF #StateSenatorBruceTarr
