[boycott]

Salt water is usually fine. The problem is usually standing salt water on the land near the ocean. It’s an area where bacteria can thrive. I’ve known people to get very ill from it.

[familyop]

"The problem is usually standing salt water on the land near the ocean."

Oh, I see. Thanks.

On getting small cuts around salt water, we only thought of the water in the ocean surf as helping against infection and didn't regard the stinky, inland flats as being the same. ;-)

My experience was a long time ago. It does seem that the good oyster beds according to the map were in areas with better daily tidal water exchange with a large bay or the Gulf. Anyone wanting to pick up oysters must get a map for locating good oyster beds first. Don't forget the tough, leather gloves and to avoid pulling too hard when lifting (razor sharp, some of those shells).