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Pilot Olympia Oyster Restoration

Shellfish | Restoration

Two areas in Whatcom County have been identified by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) as potential restoration sites for native Olympia oyster populations. Efforts have been initiated in Drayton Harbor and show promise for expansion. The second identified location encompasses a broad geographic area in which the goal is to establish at least one viable self-sustaining population of native Olympia oysters. Within this broad area, North Chuckanut Bay was identified as an ideal option for potential native oyster restoration given the existing habitat conditions. As such, the Whatcom MRC has been conducting a pilot Olympia oyster restoration project within North Chuckanut Bay. 

Seven test plots were identified for a pilot restoration project. The test plots are not intended as restoration themselves, but only to provide information on feasibility of restoration in the seven habitat patches identified.  The actual restoration design, if pursued, would attempt to address any factors identified from the test plot results that may limit success. 

The project is intended to determine if Olympia oyster restoration is feasible within Chuckanut Bay.  The MRC monitors oyster retention, size, and plot habitat characteristics annually in partnership with Bellingham Technical College Fisheries and Aquaculture students. 

To read more about native Olympia oyster restoration projects along the West Coast, visit the Native Olympia Oyster Collaborative website. To look through a story map that summarizes each Olympia oyster restoration project, visit this link.

Pilot Olympia Oyster Restoration