NOAA: Dungeness crab species is dying off

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says that Dungeness crab, one of Washington's most valued seafood items, is dying off.

The Brief

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife announced that the commercial Dungeness crab season will open on Jan. 15 from Klipsan Beach on the Long Beach Peninsula south to Cape Falcon, Oregon. This includes the Columbia River and Willapa Bay. The opening date for the remainder of Washington's Pacific Coast is still pending.

Dungeness crabs represent Washington's most valuable commercial fishery. The 2023-24 coastal commercial Dungeness crab season yielded state landings valued at $66.8 million, second only to the $88.2 million record set during the 2021-22 season.

The fish and wildlife departments of Washington, Oregon, and California collaborate annually to determine season openers as part of a tri-state agreement to manage the West Coast Dungeness crab fishery. Opening dates are based on test fishing results, which can be found at psmfc.org/crab.

WDFW fishery managers conduct crab sampling from October to January each year in Westport and Long Beach. The crabs must have a meat recovery rate of at least 23% of their total body weight before the season can open. This threshold ensures that the crabs have molted and developed a hard shell, indicating they will be in marketable condition with greater meat quantity and quality by the season opener.

"Meat recovery is closely tied to the crabs’ molting cycle," said WDFW Coastal Shellfish Manager Matthew George. "In recent years, crabs along Washington’s coast have been molting later, resulting in delayed season openings. The crab we sampled in Westport reached 23% meat recovery in mid-December, while the Long Beach crab did not meet that threshold until early January."

WDFW is investigating whether changes in molt timing are linked to broader climate trends. Improving the fishery’s climate resiliency is part of the updated Coastal Dungeness Crab Policy, approved by the Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission in October. Other policy updates address the risk of marine life entanglement in crabbing gear, focusing on humpback and blue whales and leatherback sea turtles. WDFW is developing a conservation plan and seeking an Incidental Take Permit under the federal Endangered Species Act.

Discussions are ongoing with co-manager tribes to determine a season opening date from Klipsan Beach north to the U.S.-Canada border. Each year, WDFW collaborates with tribal co-managers to develop harvest management plans to achieve resource sharing goals. These agreements include provisions such as earlier seasons for the smaller tribal fleets and special management areas closed to state fishers.

The Quinault Indian Nation’s Dungeness crab season opened on Dec. 29. QIN’s season typically begins 45-49 days before the state’s, depending on crab abundance. Additionally, per WDFW’s harvest management agreement with the Quileute Tribe, the area north of Destruction Island does not open to state crabbers before Jan. 15.

WDFW reminds state crabbers to adhere to all current regulations, including those related to line marking, buoy registration, and electronic monitoring, and to avoid setting gear in towboat lanes.

The Source: Information in this article was taken directly from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).

How many gluten-free snickerdoodles, mocha chocolate chip cookies and whole wheat loaves would it take to raise $4 billion?

“I have no idea,” 11-year-old Palawan Rito said as she surveyed the desserts on Saturday at a Billion Dollar Bake Sale event in South Seattle. The campaign is aimed at the state’s K-12 funding issues, while lobbying lawmakers for $4 billion more annually for schools.

Education will be a key issue in this year’s legislative session, which begins Monday. Advocates argue that the state has not fulfilled its constitutional duty to “amply” fund K-12 schools, which has forced districts to rely on local levies to close the gap. The groups want to increase funding in three areas: special education, transportation and a category called materials, supplies and operations.

While many lawmakers have publicly said they favor boosting K-12 spending, it’s unclear how much more districts will get. The state also has an estimated $12 billion budget deficit. Gov.-elect Bob Ferguson has said that he wants to increase education funding but is not in favor of a wealth tax to generate revenue.

The coalition behind The Billion Dollar Bake Sale isn’t really banking on selling cookies, cakes and pastries to solve the problem.

“Families can’t bake-sale their way to closing a $4 billion gap in education funding,” said Alex Wakeman Rouse, the co-chair of All Together for Seattle Schools, one of the five organizations behind the campaign. The statewide teachers union, the Washington Education Association, is also supporting the initiative.

“It’s a catchy way to draw folks’ attention to this issue and the solutions,” Rouse continued. “There are so many districts across the state that have been grappling with budget cuts and increasing student costs that many think … their school districts, the school boards or local decision-makers are to blame.”

In reality, Rouse said, what the state provides has not kept up with inflation or the cost of a 21st century education.

Advocates say parents are in a unique position to share firsthand perspectives with lawmakers about the impact of current and future funding.

“Parents directly see the impacts of schools on their kids,” said Larry Delaney, president of the Washington Education Association. “They hear the stories of buildings that have buckets collecting water because there are leaks in the roofs. They see the impact when music programs and the arts are cut because they are looked at as extras.”

“They are also voters,” he added. “The people who are making these decisions are elected officials. And that makes a difference.”

The group borrowed the concept from a similar campaign in Michigan last year. It’s also making it easier to contact lawmakers, with ready-made postcards and letters, which are also posted on its website. The coalition is also planning a Jan. 30 advocacy day in Olympia, hoping students will attend.

Megan Fisher, the co-advocacy chair at Gatewood Elementary School’s parent-teacher association in West Seattle, said some of the school’s fifth graders are expected to make the trip. Other Seattle schools may also join.

“I hope that they learn that their voice matters — (and) the importance of speaking up for their needs and the needs of the community,” Fisher said.

On Saturday, parents, students and teachers set up five “bake sale” sites at five locations in Southeast Seattle, including at a Marination restaurant and the Columbia City Farmers Market.

Ariel Mieling, whose children attend Dearborn Park International Elementary School in Beacon Hill, approached shoppers on their way to the market.

“Have you heard of The Billion Dollar Bake Sale?” she asked, before giving a summary of the state’s K-12 funding issues and how communities can play a role.

While many were receptive to the messages, not everyone was signed up. An elderly couple did not think the issue was solvable, said Sarah Kimmerle, whose children attend Graham Hill Elementary. Others filled out the postcards with handwritten notes and drawings for lawmakers.

“Every child deserves a chance to unlock their true potential,” one person wrote. “Fund the Southend,” another wrote. “I want to learn with my friends,” another wrote.

Kimmerle fears that without more state funding, the district might again consider closing schools.

“There is no way to solve this with what the governor is putting forward,” she said. “They won’t be able to solve or improve anything. It’s not a solvable problem, without taxing the superwealthy. It’s a numbers problem.”

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Megan Lim, whose children attend Dearborn Park, is worried that forcing schools to rely on local levies to fund programs will exacerbate inequities. Her children are in the Mandarin immersion program, and the salaries of the instructional aides are paid through levy funds, she said.

But she’s aware the state faces a deficit.

“I look at it as an investment,” she said. “If you invest in children early, that allows you to provide the tools they need to be successful later on down the line.”

The group has garnered support outside of Seattle, with backing from parents in the Yelm and Bellingham school districts. Some of those parents have fought school closures and have seen their district cut programs and staff.

Tightened budgets have put “the burden on parents, who are already dealing with so much now to try to fix this problem or enable them by saying, ‘Cut this, keep that, close this school, keep that school open,’ ” said Ben Higgins, an Olympia parent. “That shouldn’t be on us. It shouldn’t be on the school district, because it’s a failure on the level above them.”

Denisa R. Superville: 206-464-8216 or [email protected]. Denisa R. Superville covers K-12 education at The Seattle Times.

With President-elect Donald Trump promising mass deportations when he takes office on Jan. 20, uncertainty is rising for immigrants across the U.S.

State lawmakers have limited power over federal immigration enforcement. But in Washington’s upcoming legislative session, legislators will be looking at a bill to strengthen the safety net for immigrants working in the state without legal authorization.

Sen. Rebecca Saldaña, D-Seattle, is re-introducing a bill this session to help these workers access unemployment insurance.

Lawmakers, immigrant rights advocates, and business groups in Washington acknowledge the important role immigrants play in helping employers meet state and national labor needs. However, the unemployment insurance proposal is stirring concerns over costs and other issues related to privacy and employer liability.

​​“We know that inaction and hostility to the immigrant workforce is really harmful to a place like Washington state,” Saldaña said. “It’s all the more reason why I believe, right now, is the time that we need a state program.”

More than 156,000 people who are not legally authorized to work in the U.S. due to their immigration status are employed in Washington. Thousands work in industries such as agriculture, hospitality, construction and retail, according to the Migration Policy Institute.

Unemployment insurance is jointly financed through federal and state payroll taxes, which are taxes withheld from an employee’s paycheck that companies are responsible for paying to the government.

In Washington, immigrants who are not legally authorized to work in the U.S. have contributed nearly $400 million to unemployment funds over the past decade, according to the Washington Immigrant Solidarity Network.

This bill calls for setting aside state funds to run a program for workers who don’t qualify for standard unemployment insurance because of their immigration status. These workers would have access to those funds when they lose employment through no fault of their own.

When workers apply for unemployment insurance, they go to the Employment Security Department’s website and fill out their information to see if they qualify. If the program was implemented, workers without legal work authorization would be directed to a different website.

The program would be run through a third-party administrative system. According to Saldaña, this would lower expenses, protect workers’ identities and prevent employers from being held liable for knowingly hiring immigrants without legal immigration status. These are concerns both advocates and critics raised in the previous session.

In 2022, Colorado was the first state in the country to pass a bill to set up a fund for residents to access unemployment insurance regardless of immigration status. The state set aside $15 million a year for their program.

Cost estimates for legislation introduced in 2023 showed the Washington program would cost about $100 million in the first two-year budget cycle when the program becomes available and $140 million in the cycle after that. It would benefit a little over 5,300 workers each year.

Business groups have concerns about implementing the program and would instead like to see changes at the state and federal levels to allow employers to recruit a legal immigrant workforce when there is a shortage of workers.

“Helping more workers obtain the necessary visas to work legally in our state is a better option because then they could take advantage of the state’s existing unemployment system,” said Janelle Guthrie, a spokesperson for the Building Industry Association of Washington.

But advocates say the proposed unemployment benefit program is vital for creating a safety net for immigrants when they lose their jobs and can’t pay for necessities like food and housing.

“We are working with the Legislature to continue to have Washington be that guiding light in the nation to demonstrate that in hard times, we don’t back away from a fight,” said Sasha Wasserstrom, policy director at the Washington Immigrant Solidarity Network.

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Fan zones in nine WA cities coming for 2026 FIFA World Cup

Washingtonians can take in all the magic of the 2026 FIFA World Cup away from the actual pitch, as fan zones plan to broadcast all the action.

The Brief

SEATTLE - The Seattle FIFA World Cup Local Organizing Committee announced on Tuesday the creation of fan zones in nine cities across the state for the 2026 World Cup.

While specific locations within each city have still yet to be announced, the fan zones will be created in Bellingham, Bremerton, Everett, Olympia/Lacey, Spokane, Tacoma, Tri-Cities, Vancouver, and Yakima.

The organizing committee is working with FOX 13 Seattle, a broadcast partner of FIFA World Cup 26, to support fan zones across the state.

"The World Cup brings the entire world together around their love of soccer and their country. We’re excited to work with these nine communities to bring the thrill of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ experience to all corners of Washington state," Seattle FIFA World Cup 26 CEO Peter Tomozawa said.

What they're saying:

Bellingham Mayor Kim Lund:

"Bellingham is ready to get in the game for FIFA World Cup 2026! From waterfront watch parties to showcasing our unrivaled recreation opportunities, we can't wait to show off the best of the Pacific Northwest. We are harnessing our uniquely Bellingham energy to make the Bellingham fan zone an unforgettable experience now, and a legacy for our future."

Joint Statement from Kitsap County Commissioner Katie Walters, Bremerton Mayor Greg Wheeler, and Port Orchard Mayor Rob Putaansuu:

"We are thrilled that Kitsap County and the City of Bremerton have been selected as a SeattleFWC26 fan zone, welcoming fans from around the globe to our extraordinary region.

Just a ferry ride away from Seattle, our community offers visitors the chance to immerse themselves in our rich naval history, enjoy live entertainment in Quincy Square, explore our breathtaking maritime landscapes, and experience the warmth and hospitality of our vibrant and welcoming waterfront neighborhoods.

This incredible opportunity not only allows us to share the beauty and culture of Kitsap County with the world but also serves as a powerful driver for economic development. From local businesses and restaurants to hotels and cultural attractions, our fan zone will provide a significant boost to our local economy and create lasting benefits for our community.

We look forward to welcoming the world to Kitsap, where every visitor is a neighbor, and every match is a reason to celebrate!"

Everett Mayor Cassie Franklin:

"Everett is the place to be for the FIFA World Cup in 2026! As the home of AquaSox Baseball, Silvertips Hockey, Jets Soccer and Wolfpack Football, Everett is an incredibly proud sports town. We look forward to welcoming passionate and energized soccer fans for FIFA World Cup fun at our fan zone and throughout our city!"

Snohomish County Executive Dave Somers:

"I’m excited to invite you to our SeattleFWC26 fan zone. Snohomish County has something for everybody, from snow-tipped mountains to the shores of Puget Sound. We hope fans will join us to make the World Cup experience unforgettable. We’re all in for FIFA World Cup 2026."

Lacey Mayor Andy Ryder:

"We are excited to be a SeattleFWC26 fan zone. Lacey is a sports community with a heavy emphasis on soccer. There is no bigger event than the World Cup, so this will be a big happening for our community. Looking forward to 2026!"

Thurston County Board of Commissioners Chair Tye Menser:

"It’s very exciting for Thurston County to be able to play a small part in such a significant global event. The World Cup truly has a unique ability to unite people from diverse backgrounds, celebrating shared passions for the beautiful game. It's a fantastic opportunity for Thurston County to embrace that global spirit and be involved in something that has an impact across the world."

Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown:

"Spokane is thrilled to be a designated SeattleFWC26 fan zone! This global soccer celebration will unite our local and regional community and showcase our city’s passion for this game. We cannot wait to welcome fans to experience the spirit of Spokane."

Tacoma Mayor Victoria Woodards:

"This is a historic day for Tacoma and Pierce County," said Mayor Woodards. "Being selected as a SeattleFWC26 fan zone is a testament to our local readiness to provide safe and welcoming spaces for celebrating incredible moments and hosting world-class events. I look forward to showcasing our vibrant local community on the global stage, and celebrating soccer in a way only Tacoma and Pierce County can. We invite fans near and far to experience the dynamic energy, diversity, and spirit that define Tacoma and Pierce County, and are committed to delivering an unforgettable experience for all who join us."

Pierce County Executive Ryan Mello:

"We are delighted to welcome World Cup fans from all over the world to Pierce County in 2026. Our community is a beautiful, diverse mix of people and we’re excited to provide residents and visitors an exciting place to catch all the action."

Vancouver Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle:

"Vancouver, WA is thrilled to be part of the FIFA World Cup in 2026. We’re hoping to create an electric atmosphere for soccer fans to take in the excitement of the matches as part of the fan zone experience. We’re also looking forward to showcasing the first Vancouver to the World Cup community."

Yakima Mayor Patricia Byers:

"Yakima is excited to be a SeattleFWC26 fan zone location for the FIFA World Cup 2026! We’re proud of Yakima’s long and rich sports history. Being a fan zone location will build on that legacy."

Yakima County Commissioner Amanda McKinney:

"Yakima County is Sun country - A great place to recreate year-round and the best place to be a FIFA World Cup 2026 fan! We are proud to host a SeattleFWC26 fan zone and look forward to sharing all of the excitement in 2026!"

The Source: The Seattle FIFA World Cup 26 Local Organizing Committee.

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OLYMPIA — Gov. Jay Inslee’s portrait was unveiled in the State Reception Room to thunderous applause Tuesday afternoon following the three-term governor’s final State of the State address.

Gov. Jay Inslee delivers final State of the State address

The portrait, painted by artist Grace Flott, depicts Inslee standing, holding a folder labeled “The State of Washington.” Behind him is a background of blue hues with Mount Rainier in the distance.

The portrait will hang in the governor’s office between the reception desk and former Gov. Christine Gregoire’s portrait.

Inslee exits his role after 12 years, with Gov.-elect Bob Ferguson set to be sworn in at noon Wednesday. Many will remember the outgoing governor for his love for nature and his climate advocacy, a theme he worked with Flott to incorporate throughout the painting.

“Mount Rainier has glaciers and snow and it is my firm belief that because of what we are doing in Washington state, 100 years from now Washington state will continue to have glaciers and snow,” Inslee said.

Included in the portrait is the apple pin Inslee has worn on his lapel throughout his time as governor. On occasion, Inslee will award someone “Washingtonian of the Day” by removing his pin and giving it to “someone who inspires him.”

Inslee awarded what might be his final Washingtonian of the Day pin to Flott following the unveiling.

Flott, 34, was selected after a competitive national search. She grew up in Spokane and is the daughter of public employees — her mother a librarian and her father an urban forester for the city. She received her undergraduate degree from the University of Washington.

After sustaining an injury from a fire, Flott became interested in “what it means to navigate the world with a visible difference.” She decided to return to school specifically for portraiture and figure training.

“The big idea is that, even in the age of social media, portraiture remains a medium that can bridge identities, differences and time,” Flott said.

Flott and Inslee began collaborating on the concept design in August. The creative process included several iterations before the seven-week oil painting process began in the fall. Inslee was “very involved” throughout, Flott said.

The portrait was completed in November and delivered to Olympia in December. According to Flott, Inslee didn’t want a portrait that “showed himself as sort of separate or apart from the rest of Washington,” or portrayed him as “overly regal.”

Sofia Schwarzwalder: [email protected].