SOLOMONS, Md. – A sewage spill over the holiday weekend has prompted the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) to impose an emergency shellfish harvesting closure in a portion of the Patuxent River, affecting a stretch of water near Solomons.
The closure, which took effect July 5, 2025, will remain in place through July 26 and targets all waters east of the Gov. Thomas Johnson Bridge (Route 4) and north of a line extending from the bridge’s southern tip to Sandy Point at the southern end of Solomons Island.
The emergency order comes in response to public health concerns following the spill. Shellfish in the area—such as oysters and clams—can filter and retain harmful bacteria and viruses, posing a significant risk to consumers if harvested from contaminated waters.
Calvert County officials said they are working in coordination with MDE and have issued public notices in line with the agency’s directive.
Further details about the closure and its impact can be found on MDE’s website or by contacting the department directly.
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That’s a real sh!tty situation!