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Geoducks, the world's largest burrowing clam, have grown commercially valuable in recent years. This upturn in market value has resulted in interest by industry to actively culture geoducks via aquatic farmsites. There are currently eight, sub-tidal, on-bottom culture farms for geoduck clams in Southeast Alaska, but more than 140 new sites were applied for in 2005, including 5 in the Sitka area. Once permitted the farms cut off public access for recreation, subsistence and boat anchoring.
Geoduck Farms-Privatizing SE Alaska's Waters
The geoduck (pronounced gooey duck) clam is the world?s largest burrowing clam. The commercial value of this clam has significantly increased in recent years. In fact a number of Sitkans are commercial geoduck divers. This upturn in market value has resulted in interest by industry to actively culture geoducks via aquatic farmsites.
 Photo: Geoduck Clams for sale in Hong Kong
There are currently eight, sub-tidal, on-bottom culture farms for geoduck clams in Southeast Alaska, but more than 140 new sites were requested in 2005. In March 2006, the Departement of Natural Resources completed review of 5 potential farm sites in the Sitka area. The Agency denied three sites: Rob Point- Hayward Strait; Kasiana Islands and a Corner Bay. They approved expansion of the current operation at Krestof Island and permited a new site at Mielkoi Cove just south of Three Entrance Bay.
Because of concerns that the Mielkoi Cove farm site will impact traditional and existing uses of the area including commercial fishing, sport fishing, subsistence activities, use as an anchorage, navigation, recreation, sightseeing, and tourism SCS appealed the decision of the State to lease land in this area. The good news is in January 2007, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game found the Mielkoi Cove site incompatible with marine resources in the area and denied the permit. Our appeal, which raise additional issues, is still pending a decision from the Commissioner of the DNR.
 Photo: Mielkoi Cove just south of Three Entrance Bay
New farmsite applications are accepted by DNR every two years. The current application process will run from January through April 2007. You can be sure SCS will keep a close watch on any new farm requests around Sitka to insure compatibility with traditional and cultural activities and the biological environment.
Click here to read SCS's press release on ADF&G permit denial.
Click here to read SCS's appeal on the Mielkoi Cove site.
Click here to view SCS comments to DNR on this issue.
Click here to view a transcript of the Sitka hearing on geoducks farms held on October 13, 2005.
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