Suquamish Seafood Enterprises (SSE) seeks to increase its cold and wet storage capacity to improve seafood safety and availability for retail sales and cultural events. This expansion will help preserve shellfish during extreme heat waves, which have become more frequent due to climate change, safeguarding against the significant loss of oysters and clams. By increasing storage, SSE will enhance its ability to supply fresh seafood for Suquamish Tribal members, including elders, while also boosting the retail business. The project includes securing funding, beginning construction, and coordinating with the Suquamish Fisheries Department to store and manage a wider variety of seafood.
Established in 1996, Suquamish Seafood Enterprises provides Suquamish Tribal members with a way to sustain themselves through traditional practices, such as harvesting shellfish. The storage expansion will support food sovereignty efforts and economic growth within the tribe, enabling SSE to process and store more seafood for cultural events like the annual Canoe Journey and daily meals for elders. SSE aims to ensure a stable food supply and income for future generations by safeguarding shellfish from environmental threats and expanding its retail capacity.
