The mission of the Office of Shellfish and Water Protection is to improve the health of people in Washington State by ensuring shellfish are safe to eat, beaches are safe for swimming, and on-site sewage and reclaimed water systems are properly managed.

Our office consists of the following programs:

Shellfish Programs

Swimming BEACH Program

Water Protection Program (Wastewater Management)

Biotoxin Program 
Monitors biotoxins in molluscan shellfish, closing harvest areas when high levels pose a threat to public health.

Commercial Shellfish Licensing & Certification Program
Licenses and inspects commercial shellfish operations in Washington state.

Growing Areas Classification Program
Monitors and classifies shellfish growing areas for harvest suitability.

Recreational Shellfish Program  
Provides timely information to recreational harvesters regarding where and when it is safe to harvest shellfish.

Water Protection Program

Wastewater Management Program

• Protects public health by promoting the safe treatment and disposal of domestic and other non-industrial wastewater in areas of Washington not served by municipal sewage treatment works.

• Provides assistance to local health jurisdictions regarding on-site wastewater issues.

Large On-site Sewage System Program

• Reviews and approves plans for large on-site sewage systems.