WA officials report water-quality improvement for shellfish harvesting sites
Following a year of significant shellfish harvesting restrictions, the Washington State Department of Health is reporting “encouraging signs of recovery.”
An annual review of commercial shellfish harvesting areas reported improved water quality in five locations that could soon lead to the lifting of restrictions. The review also did not lead to the proposal of new closures.
At the same time, the health department said challenges remain. Elevated bacteria levels were found in 13 areas, including Portage Bay in Whatcom County. While they currently meet water-quality standards, they’re at risk of future restrictions if conditions don’t improve.
The health department said state officials are working with county partners, tribal governments, shellfish growers and other agencies to identify and fix pollution sources.
“Our state’s collaborative approach to improving water quality has led to the successful reopening of many shellfish harvesting areas,” Scott Berbells, manager of the health department’s Shellfish Growing Area Section, said in a statement. “Clean water is the result of everyone doing their part.”
Since 2011, the Washington State Department of Health has invested over $45 million in projects across Puget Sound through the Environmental Protection Agency’s National Estuary Program. This money goes toward pollution detection, septic system management, wastewater treatment upgrades, research and local shellfish protection programs.
The health department said individuals also play a “critical role” in protecting water quality. They encouraged people to maintain their septic systems, clean up pet waste, properly dispose of waste from boats and RVs, and manage farm animal runoff.
The latest status for commercial shellfish harvesting locations and potential closures can be found at fortress.wa.gov/doh/biotoxin/biotoxin.html. Tribal harvesting locations are not managed by the state. For harvesting status of Lummi Bay and Portage Bay, visit Lummi Nation’s website.