Lousy weather this winter and spring is allowing the state Department of Fish and Wildlife to extend the razor clam season for one last dig.

The department last week announced it has tentatively scheduled a morning razor clam dig in May at four ocean beaches.

If marine toxin tests show the clams are safe to eat, Long Beach and Twin Harbors will open for morning digs Saturday through Wednesday, while Copalis and Mocrocks are scheduled to open Sunday and Monday only.

No digging will be allowed after noon on any beach.

Fewer diggers than expected showed up for the dig in late April, kept home by the snow, rain and cold. That has happened several times this year, allowing the department to offer additional digs while staying within its annual clam quota.

A review of the total harvest levels after the April opener showed there were enough clams remaining for a May opener, said Dan Ayres, coastal shellfish manager.

“With unseasonably cold and snowy weather, fewer diggers than we expected turned out, so the overall catch was less than anticipated,” Ayres said. “We’re pleased to offer folks another chance to get some clams in May and hopefully the weather will cooperate.”

Ayres said this would likely be the final recreational razor clam opener before fall.

All diggers must have an applicable 2008-09 fishing license to dig razor clams on any beach. A license is required for anyone age 15 or older. Licenses can be purchased at https://fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov, by telephone at 1-866-246-9453, or in person at more than 600 license vendors throughout the state. A list of vendors is available at wdfw.wa.gov/lic/vendors/vendors.htm.

Low tides

May 3 5:27 a.m. -0.3 feet

May 4 6:16 a.m. -1.2 feet

May 5 7:04 a.m. -1.9 feet

May 6 7:51 a.m. -2.3 feet

May 7 8:39 a.m. -2.4 feet