Clam and oyster 2022 season and oyster drill restricted areas updates

Rule-making status: Permanent

Summary of proposed rule

The department amended several regulations in WAC Chapters that affect harvesting clams and oysters for personal use.

Scope and rationale for proposed rule

In accordance with recent clam and oyster survey data, recreational harvest projections, co-management agreements, and public health considerations, recreational clam and oyster seasons require extension or shortening on some public beaches. This rule proposal reflects these changes. Additionally, this proposal updates beach designations according to shellfish pest status by adding Restricted designation to three new beaches due to the discovery of invasive Japanese oyster drills on these beaches. This designation is necessary to prevent the spread of pest infestations harmful to shellfish.

Public comments

The comment period for this proposal has closed as of February 9, 2022. To view the comments received during the comment period, please visit the Clam and Oyster comment page.

Public hearing

February 8, 2022 at 5:30 PM via Zoom Webinar

Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_JGC5rMyuQI-AbQJRobfk2Q
If you would like to participate, please register in advance for this webinar by clicking here.

  • February 18, 2022

    Agency files Rule Adoption Notice CR-103

  • February 8, 2022

    Public Hearing

    A public hearing was held via Zoom webinar at 5:30 PM. Public testimony was accepted during this meeting.

  • January 5, 2022

    Agency files rule proposal (CR-102)

    The public is encouraged to submit comment on the proposed rule at this time.

  • October 18, 2021

    Agency files preproposal (CR-101)

    Agency files notice of its intent to develop rule making for the 2022 clam and oyster season.

October 2021

For more information

Subject matter expert staff contact: Camille.speck@dfw.wa.gov

Assistance for additional accessibility and persons with disabilities contact:
833-885-1012, TTY (711), or CivilRightsTeam@dfw.wa.gov.