The Mississippi Department of Marine Resources reopened two oyster areas  at legal sunrise today (Thursday, March 3) and it was a welcome sight.

The reefs have been closed since 4 p.m. Dec. 11 because of the red tide, the opening of the Bonnet Carre Spillway and excessive rainfall.

“After months of being closed, I am happy to announce Mississippi’s oyster season will open again,” Executive Director Jamie Miller said Wednesday. “This has been another difficult year for our oyster industry, but MDMR remains committed to enhancing the resource moving forward for the benefit of everyone in the industry.”

The two conditionally approved areas open are:

Area II “E” – This includes Square Handkerchief reef and southern portions of Henderson Point Reef.

Area II “F” – This includes southern portions of the Pass Christian Reef.

The daily sack limit is 15 for tonging and 25 for dredging. All other current rules and regulations remain in effect.

For more information, call the MDMR Oyster Hotline at 228-374-5167 or 1-800-385-5902.