Cultural revitalization through bivalve aquaculture: the Suquamish Indian Tribe

The supply of clams and oysters to the Suquamish tribal community is limited due to overfishing, and the cumulative effects of the lack of harvest opportunity on the culture and social fabric of the tribe are significant. A 3-year aquaculture project completed on July 1st, 2004 addressed the need to restore sustainable sources of intertidal bivalves around the Suquamish reservation. The project goal was to bring scientific knowledge and aquaculture techniques to the community to secure sustainable crops of clams, mussels, and oysters for future generations. During the project, 19 Suquamish staff and tribal members were trained in basic shellfish biology, water quality, and aquaculture techniques. Theory and applied training were realized by implementing various enhancement and aquaculture activities. Trainees set up oyster cultch, helped design a float system and maintained oysters, mussels, and clams on floating lines, planted hardshell clam seed, and set up intertidal growing systems for oysters. Project managers are currently looking at incorporating these small-scale techniques into a larger commercial venture.