In partnership with Grays Harbor Conservation District, Pacific Conservation District has been tackling the European green crab problem—a highly destructive invasive species threatening Washington’s marine ecosystems.
The Threat:
European green crabs wreak havoc on eelgrass beds, marsh habitats, shellfish populations, and salmon recovery efforts. Left unchecked, these invaders can destabilize food webs and harm our shellfish aquaculture industry.
The Response:
Since January 2022, an incredible 387,399 European green crabs have been removed from Washington’s marine waters. More than 300K were from the Coast Branch, which includes Willapa and Grays Harbor. This critical effort is a collaboration between conservation districts, tribal nations, state agencies, and local industry partners like the Willapa Grays Harbor Oyster Growers Association.
Thank you, Pacific Conservation District, for leading the charge to protect Washington’s coastal ecosystems—one crab at a time.
Jefferson County CD partnered with Spring Rain Farm to install multistory riparian buffers that protect wetlands while keeping the farm productive. It’s a working example of how restoration and agriculture can thrive together.
A short video from Pacific Conservation Districts shares how no-till farming is helping a local grower improve soil health, reduce costs, and protect water quality.
