Last week, Grays Harbor Conservation District gave SCC commissioners, staff, and partners a tour of its district, highlighting their vital work to protect local rivers and coastal ecosystems.
During the tour, we got to learn about:
Tackling Green Crabs
Green crabs are an invasive species that threatens local wildlife and the shellfish industry—one crab can eat up to 40 clams a day! Grays Harbor CD has been working hard to control them with trapping efforts focused on three hot spots around the harbor. Funding has been renewed yearly since Governor Inslee's emergency proclamation in 2022, but more work is needed to protect Washington's coastal waters.
River Roots Beer Initiative
Grays Harbor CD teamed up with Mount Olympus Brewing to brew a Pale Ale called "River Roots." They plant a tree for every beer sold! So far, they've sold 12,000+ beers and planted 12,000+ trees. This creative project is helping to raise awareness and engage the community in conservation.
Satsop River Restoration
We wrapped up the tour by visiting a $2.4 million river restoration project on the Satsop River. The project includes reshaping the riverbank and adding log jams to improve water flow and create a better habitat for wildlife. With 400+ acres of riparian restoration planned, the project is already helping to reduce flooding and improve the river's health.
Thank you, Grays Harbor Conservation District, for an incredible tour!
