These estimates not only mix air and marine terminal facility impacts, but they are quite expansive in terms of what qualifies as a job that is in some way dependent on port activities. Consequently, we have used a more conservative estimate prepared by the Washington Public Ports Association. The oyster industry in the Sound is one of the two most significant sources of commercial oysters nationwide, and unlike the Chesapeake Bay, the level of production has increased in recent years. The fishing industries have the most obvious self interest in maintaining water quality. Edible oysters can be grown only in pristine waters.
Wild salmon can only regenerate in high quality streams.
Owners of fishing, aquaculture, and related food processing firms are natural allies in the fight for water quality, provided that the policies chosen do not require investment in capital intensive technology or other cost burdens that would make these activities uneconomic. The shellfish growing industry and the associations representing the industry have historically been, and continue to be, keenly interested and active in the enhancement of water quality. However, these sectors are relatively small compared to many other industry groups in Western Washington, which often limits their influence on public policy processes. Visitor and recreation industries are perhaps the industry group second most tied to water quality. Residents and visitors make an estimated 4.5 million annual trips to engage in saltwater related recreational activities in Western Washington.