Adam Putnam Extends Oyster Permits Because of Debby

Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam has added two weeks to the oyster harvesting period in Apalachicola Bay because of Tropical Storm Debby.

The normal 45-day licensing period for the commercial harvesting that normally ends June 30 was extended through the end of the day on July 13.

The safety of the shellfish harvesters -- and all residents who are affected by current weather conditions -- is our first priority, Putnam stated in a release. Extending the oyster harvesting license period is a simple way we can ease the burden of Tropical Storm Debby on Apalachicola Bay oyster harvesters.

With the extension, applicants will not be subject to the $500 late fee until after July 13.

The Franklin County office of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services was closed Monday due to the storm.No reopening was announced as the storm lingered in the northeastern Gulf.