Geochemical and Ecological Consequences of Disturbances Associated with Geoduck Aquaculture Operations in Washington
Glenn VanBlaricom, David Armstrong and Tim Essington, School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences, University of Washington, and Jeffrey Cornwell and Roger Newell, Horn Point Marine Laboratories, University of Maryland
R/GD-1a and R/GD-1b
As part of a large-scale multidisciplinary study, researchers will address several of the most pressing issues regarding the effects of geoduck aquaculture on the Puget Sound ecosystem:
- What are the effects of aquaculture structures on communities of plants and animals living in or on Puget Sound beaches?
- Do structures change the behavior or movements of salmon, Dungeness crab and other commercially and ecologically important fish and shellfish?
- How does disturbance during geoduck harvesting affect communities of plants and animals and subsequent recovery of the ecosystem?
- How does disturbance during harvesting alter the physical and chemical properties of Puget Sound beaches?
Throughout the geoduck culture cycle, researchers will specifically investigate ecosystem-level effects, including initial conditions, and patterns of recovery following activities such as installing structures or harvesting clams, for an array of organisms. The research team will compare periodic disturbances associated with culture activities to those of storms and other naturally occurring disturbances. Research findings will provide the scientific foundation for policy decisions that balance the needs and concerns of shellfish growers, environmental groups and property owners.
More Information
- Project details and updates
- Glenn VanBlaricom, 206.543.6475, glennvb@u.washington.edu
- General information on Washington Sea Grant geoduck research: Raechel Waters, Associate Director, 206.685.8209, rlwaters@u.washington.edu