Oyster farming has been a part of the working waterfront in Westport for decades. With workers working on the tide flats in the dark and at odd hours, many aren't aware of the industry's presence. Nationally, one of four oysters sold comes from the Twin Harbors (Grays and Willapa). The foundation of this production is the clean and nutrient-rich waters that allow us to grow some of the finest shellfish in the world.
Sustainably Farmed Oysters in Westport, Washington
Since the Mid 1800’s
Oyster farmers are an integral part of the community in Westport, and they are dedicated to the mission of sustainably delivering the healthiest protein on the planet. Did you know that many oysters have been grown on the same beds for more than a century? Sustainability is more than a phrase. It is an acknowledgment that farmers must be stewards of the community, environment and the resource.
Oysters Farms Equal Healthy Oceans
Oysters on our farms provide a three-dimensional habitat important for crab, salmon, and other aquatic species. One oyster can filter 30-40 gallons or more of water each day, helping to support a healthy ocean. Their filtering provides an ecosystem service by reducing turbidity, which increases light transmission for eelgrass and other macroalgae essential for fish habitat.
Restoration
Additionally, oysters serve the purpose of nitrogen sequestration by removing excess nutrients from the system, which minimizes the risk for events that lead to dead zones or fish die-offs that have happened in the Gulf Coast and the Chesapeake Bay. This is the reason oyster restoration has been seen as foundational to restoring the health of Gulf Coast, Chesapeake, and Hudson Bay estuaries. Healthy and productive shellfish beds are similarly important to Grays Harbor.
Community
From the perspective of the community, the industry offers hundreds of living-wage jobs in the area. Our local oyster farmers take pride in being active members of the community, stakeholders in the watershed, and advocates for clean water.
When you purchase an oyster from Grays Harbor, you can rest assured that you hold one of the healthiest and most sustainable seafood choices available. We hope the salty, sweet and briny taste can help you picture the healthy and vibrant estuary it was grown in and the labor of love made to bring it to you.
Check out these oyster recipes from Westport’s local oyster farmers, Pacific Seafood!
Purchase Locally Farmed Westport Oysters from our Seafood Markets!
Westport Seafood Markets
