OCEAN PINES, Md. — The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) has issued an emergency shellfish harvesting closure for Manklin Creek in Worcester County, following a sewage spill on February 7. The closure also affects parts of Isle of Wight Bay and Sinepuxent Bay, according to the Assateague Coastal Trust. The closure will remain in place until March 1, 2025, while authorities continue to monitor the situation. Affected areas are marked on a map provided by MDE, which can be accessed on the department’s website. The safety zones are intended to protect public health by preventing exposure to potentially contaminated waters. “We will continue to closely monitor the situation and provide updates as new information becomes available,” said Taylor Swanson, Assateague Coastkeeper, who urged residents with concerns or questions to reach out to MDE directly. In response to the spill, the Ocean Pines Association has stated that it is working closely with state and local authorities to monitor the environmental impact. They are committed to providing updates to the community as more information is received. While the closure impacts the local shellfish harvesting industry, the health and safety of residents and visitors are the primary concern, as the waters in the affected areas may contain harmful bacteria due to the sewage spill. MDE and other local agencies are investigating the cause of the sewage spill and taking necessary steps to address the situation. Residents and shellfish harvesters are advised to stay informed and adhere to the closure to protect their health and the environment. For more details and updates, residents are encouraged to check the MDE website and contact the department with any questions.