Shellfish logo used by permission, courtesy of the Pacific Coast Shellfish Growers Association (PCSGA)

Portage Bay Projects

Agricultural practices

Nutrient Management Plans - As a way to control manure generated on dairy farms, the 1998 State Dairy Nutrient Management Act requires that dairy farms create and implement nutrient management/conservation plans for their farms. At the time the Act was passed, there were 209 dairy farms in Whatcom County. Of these, 197 had at least part of their dairy within the borders of the Portage Bay Shellfish District. All but one of the dairy farms in the Portage Bay Shellfish District had approved nutrient management plans in place by the July 1, 2002 deadline. For more information on nutrient management plans and other farm practices, check out the Whatcom Conservation District website.
Dairy Farm Inspection Program - The Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) inspects all dairy farms in the state. The inspection process is an ongoing part of WSDA's work in the county.