Whatcom County MRC Projects

Bottomfish Project - Workshops

The Whatcom County MRC worked with People for Puget Sound to host three community workshops in Febraury 2003 in an effort solicit “local knowledge” of bottomfish resources in Whatcom County waters. Two workshops were held in Bellingham and one workshop was held in Blaine. Approximately 50 community members attended the workshops. Participants identified themselves as recreational divers, commercial (trawl) fishermen, and interested residents, some of whom were sport fishers.

The workshops consisted of a presentation by MRC members describing bottomfish in Whatcom County, the threats to their populations, and different management techniques which may be helpful in protecting bottomfish. The presentation was followed by an open discussion with participants about where bottomfish are or used to be in Whatcom County waters. Maps were used to help further indicate areas with current and historic bottomfish populations.

Community Workshop Flyer (PDF File)
Workshop News Articles
Whatcom County Bottomfish Project-Final Report (PDF File)

Background Information
Bottomfish Surveys
Bottomfish Brochure and Fact Sheets
Bottomfish Workshops
Whatcom County Bottomfish Project-Final Report (PDF File)
Next Steps