FOLEY — State Health Office Dr. Donald E. Williamson announced late last week the reopening of portions of Areas I, II and II of Mobile Bay that were temporarily closed to the harvesting of oysters on April 14, 2015. This includes Portersville Bay, Grand Bay and Heron Bay.

The order took effect at 6 a.m., Saturday, May 9.

All public oyster reefs are managed by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Marine Resources Division (MRD) for harvest.

Catchers are reminded to check with MRD for information regarding areas open for harvest.

The Alabama Department of Public Health will continue to monitor bay waters and shellfish to ensure bacteriological safety.

For additional information concerning the reopening, contact Greg Dunn, Alabama Department of Public Health, in Mobile at 251-662-7511 or 251-331-0409.