Shellfish fans in Washington may be in for a stinker as increased levels of fecal bacteria threaten to impose harvest restrictions on some of the state's popular shellfishing areas. 15 out of 115 commercial regions are on the brink due to these unsavory pollution levels, according to the Washington State Department of Health.

An annual review spills the dirty details, as DOH examines water sample data and the possible origins of contamination. In the hot seat are Mason County's Annas Bay and Clallam County's Dungeness Bay, which did not meet the high water quality standards set to protect public health, as noted on the DOH website. However, as of now, these areas remain open for business, and their classification is due for another evaluation.

Other areas skating on thin ice, include Clallam County's Dungeness Bay, Grays Harbor County's namesake bay and Pacific Coast, Kitsap County's Dyes Inlet, Liberty Bay, and Miller Bay. The list goes on through Snohomish, Thurston, and other counties, all of which may soon see harvest changes if the waters don't clear up. Despite the pollution threat, shellfish from these locations are still deemed safe to eat for now.

As per the Washington State Department of Health, Scott Berbells said, "Small changes can make a big difference when it comes to keeping our water clean." He urged the public to do their part by maintaining septic systems, responsibly disposing of pet and farm animal waste, and making use of proper facilities for boats and RVs.