In 2012, several Northwest Tribes received mitigation funds from the US Navy for direct impacts to environmental resources. The Tribes developed a conceptual Sustainable Shellfish Program (SSP) designed to supply mature shellfish seed to support future shellfish production. The health of shellfish species and habitats are under threat by the effects of stormwater runoff, pollution, shoreline modification, destruction of habitats and other impacts. The SSP supports research, training and education for the protection of the marine environment and the sustainable management of shellfish resources. The SSP includes four components: Hood Canal Beach Enhancement and Seeding; Shellfish Nursery; Wet Lab Building including Research, Education and Training; and Subtidal Geoduck Surveys.
In 2013, Loving Engineering was awarded a contract for the Project Management of the $6.6 million Sustainable Shellfish Program. Project level effort included the analysis of environmental GIS data, conceptual budget development, and multi-agency coordination. The project scope included the development of annual Shellfish Seeding schedules; management of a multi-year Geoduck Survey and analysis; permitting and project management of the design of a Wet Laboratory; and project management of the permitting and design of a floating shellfish nursery in Port Gamble Bay. The projects were managed and constructed between 2013 and 2019. Implementation of the SSP provides a substantial increase in the availability of shellfish seed production and shellfish seeding throughout the Puget Sound region.