THE CANADIAN PRESS

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TOFINO, B.C. - Oyster farm tours will be a highlight of the 12th annual Clayoquot Oyster Festival in Tofino, from Nov. 20 to 22.

On most oyster farms in Clayoquot Sound, on the west coast of Vancouver Island, oysters hang on long lines in the water. About 50,000 gallons (almost 200,000 litres) of Crassostrea gigas - better known as Pacific oysters - are harvested each year in the area.

Most commercial growing of oysters has traditionally been done on tidal beaches, says the festival website.

"The innovative, long-line method allows the delectable creatures to grow on strings dangling in the deep, cold waters of Clayoquot Sound."

One-and-a-half-hour boat tours feature a scenic trip up Lemmens Inlet to visit an oyster farm. Visitors can sample oysters fresh from the line.

At Tofino's community centre there will be the Mermaid's Ball (a costume party with a raw oyster bar) and a gala where local restaurants will compete for prizes.

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On the web:

http://www.oystergala.com/

http://www.remotepassages.com/oysters.html