Stephanie Valdez
Beyond target species restoration: evaluating Olympia oyster restoration for impacts to Dungeness crab
Abstract
Ecosystem restoration has the potential to curb species loss as an action forward approach to conservation. However, marine restoration is often limited to target species impacts which can hinder the scope and put valuable species at odds for management priority. In Washington state there are two iconic species, Olympia oysters (Ostrea lurida) and Dungeness crab (Metacarcinus magister), that hold economic and cultural significance but are separated in their conservation efforts. Olympia oysters were harvested to near extinction with the current goal of reestablishing self-sustaining populations while Dungeness crab population are in decline with management limited to fisheries catch restrictions.
This project aims to evaluate ongoing Olympia oyster restoration for co-species benefits and management implications to both Olympia oysters and Dungeness crab. Using complimentary field surveys and data analysis, I will explore three objectives; 1) evaluate Olympia oyster restoration location and technique for co-benefits to Dungeness crab, 2) explore a potential mechanism for habitat use by Dungeness crab in restored Olympia oysters, and 3) evaluate larval signatures as predictors of Olympia oyster and Dungeness crab co-occurrence for future restoration site selection. Understanding how Dungeness crab use restored Olympia oysters could open a valuable and creative management avenue when current management is limited while also evaluating potential improvements to restoration efforts. This project was created with direct input from local restoration practitioners, state agencies, and tribal communities interested in merging conservation efforts across these valuable species. The project has the potential to leverage restoration for the benefit and management of multiple species, creating greater incentives and opportunities for restoration actions.
Mentors
Carter Smith at University of Washington and Hilary Hayford at Puget Sound Restoration Fund
Undergraduate Education
B.S., Biology, University of Washington, 2014
Graduate Education
Ph.D. Marine Science and Conservation, Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, 2024
