Washington’s Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Working Group is charged with finding effective, safe, and publicly accepted control methods for the burrowing shrimp infestation now threatening Southwest Washington’s $200 million a year shellfish industry.

The ultimate outcome and ongoing viability of the shellfish industry hinges on the group’s ability to find a viable control method for burrowing shrimp. The road to that end depends on its ability to raise awareness and support for the region’s shellfish industry, the unique and beautiful estuaries – Willapa Bay and Grays Harbor, and working families who live along their shores and depend on shellfish farming.

Those closest to the industry keep focused on the threats posed by the burrowing shrimp infestation. But before people outside the industry and the region will care about the problem, they must first become aware of the place and the people. Our strategy begins by building awareness and connections with Willapa Bay and Grays Harbor.