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University of Washington Research Team Seeking Shellfish Producer Input

A research team at the University of Washington needs your help with their project. As you know, farming native shellfish provides many benefits to coastal communities. Additionally, it may pose genetic risks to wild populations that the industry depends on for broodstock. Very little is known about these genetic risks. The research team aims to measure the magnitude of these genetic risks and inform decision makers. They are building a model to simulate shellfish production and need to learn from you about how native shellfish are grown today.

If you grow a native shellfish species and are willing to help, please fill out their surveys. One survey is specific to shellfish farms and another to shellfish hatcheries, depending on your work position. Your participation is extremely valuable because it will help ensure that their research is realistic and valuable to stakeholders. As a small token of their appreciation, you will have the chance to win a $50 Amazon gift card.

The surveys are voluntary and confidential, and should take about 15 minutes to complete. You can find the online version of the Shellfish Farm Survey here and the Shellfish Hatchery Survey here. Alternatively, you can request a hard copy with return postage included by contacting the project coordinator Natalie Lowell at (760) 420-2281 or nclowell@uw.edu. Your input will help ensure that their results are useful for the shellfish industry, restoration practitioners, and resource managers. If you have any questions about the survey or this project, please do not hesitate to get in touch with Natalie.

Survey ends February 15, 2018.

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