A new legislative proposal aimed at revitalizing Washington's shellfish farming industry is making waves in the Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee. Senate Bill 5322 seeks to tackle the persistent issue of burrowing shrimp, which have severely impacted shellfish production in Willapa Bay and Grays Harbor.

The bill mandates the Washington Department of Agriculture to establish an integrated pest management research program focused on developing effective solutions for controlling burrowing shrimp. This initiative comes after the Department of Ecology denied shellfish growers the use of pesticides to manage these pests in 2018, leaving farmers struggling to maintain productivity.

Key objectives of the proposed program include enhancing the resilience of shellfish farming and fostering collaboration among researchers, farmers, and regulatory agencies. The bill outlines the creation of a governing board comprising representatives from various state departments, shellfish growers, and environmental organizations, ensuring a comprehensive approach to the problem.

Marilyn Sheldon, a shellfish farmer and advocate for the bill, highlighted the dire situation, stating that her farm has lost significant production since the pesticide ban in 2014. She emphasized the importance of continued collaboration and funding to find viable control methods, noting that several farms have already closed due to the shrimp infestation.

The bill proposes a dedicated funding account, with an intent to allocate $2 million biennially to support research efforts. However, concerns about the fiscal implications were raised during the meeting, prompting discussions on how to move the bill forward while addressing budgetary constraints.

Supporters of the bill, including members of the Pacific Coast Shellfish Growers Association, argue that this legislation is crucial for the survival of the shellfish industry, which is a vital economic driver in the region. They stress that without effective management of burrowing shrimp, the future of shellfish farming—and the livelihoods it supports—remains at risk.

As the committee prepares to deliberate on the bill, the shellfish farming community is hopeful that this legislative effort will pave the way for innovative solutions and a more sustainable future for Washington's coastal ecosystems.