The Oregon Dungeness Crab Commission has implemented a program to support the preseason sampling process for the commercial Dungeness crab season. As part of this initiative, the commission is offering a $3,000 stipend to Dungeness crab permit owners who participate in collecting preseason samples.
This preseason sampling is crucial for determining the opening date of the Oregon commercial Dungeness crab season. The samples collected are used to assess meat recovery and conduct biotoxin tests, which are essential factors in deciding when the season can safely begin.
By providing this financial incentive, the Oregon Dungeness Crab Commission aims to encourage more permit holders to participate in the sampling process, ensuring a more comprehensive and accurate assessment of the crab population and its readiness for harvest. This collaboration between the commission and permit owners helps streamline the decision-making process for the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW), which is responsible for setting the official opening date for the commercial season.
The commercial Dungeness crab fishery is a vital part of Oregon’s economy, being considered the most valuable single-species commercial fishery in the state. Therefore, this stipend not only benefits individual permit owners but also contributes to the overall health and sustainability of the industry by ensuring that the season opens at the optimal time based on reliable data.
If you are interested in participating in the program you can contact:
Kelly Corbett at ODFW directly at 541-270-5083, or email her at kelly.c.corbett@odfw.oregon.gov