WDFW Protocols for Hatchery Production of Native Olympia oyster (Ostrea lurida) Seed for Restoration

The over-arching objective of WDFW guidance for native oyster restoration is the rebuilding of natural oyster bed habitat supported by self-sustaining populations of native oysters.

This document contains:

1. Guidelines for when to use seed supplements in restoration.
2. A list of current requirements for the hatchery production of restoration-grade native oyster seed.
3. Background and requirements to minimize genetic risk by maintaining and protecting genetic integrity of populations within Puget Sound and the Washington coast.
4. Details on Composite Broodstock Zones in the five Puget Sound sub-basins identified by WDFW.
5. Recommendations for archiving tissue samples.
6. Requirements to minimize the introductions or spread of diseases and pests associated with using hatchery-produced animals for restoration.