SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5560
As of February 17, 2025
Title: An act relating to designating the Pacific razor clam as the state clam.
Brief Description: Designating the Pacific razor clam as the state clam.
Sponsors: Senators Chapman, Pedersen, Liias, Nobles, Trudeau and Wilson, J..
Brief History:
Committee Activity: State Government, Tribal Affairs & Elections: 2/18/25.
Brief Summary of Bill
  • Designates the Pacific razor clam as the official clam of the state of Washington.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON STATE GOVERNMENT, TRIBAL AFFAIRS & ELECTIONS
Staff: Danielle Creech (786-7412)
Background:

Siliqua patula, more commonly known as the Pacific razor clam, is a meaty shellfish with a narrow, oblong shell. In Washington, these clams can grow to a length of three to six inches. They are found primarily on the intertidal coastal beaches. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife divides the harvest areas into five major management zones: 

  • Long Beach, from the Columbia River north to the mouth of the Willapa Bay;
  • Twin Harbors, from Willapa Bay north to the south jetty at the mouth of Grays Harbor;
  • Copalis Beach, from the north jetty at the mouth of Grays Harbor to the Copalis River;
  • Mocrocks, from the Copalis River to the south boundary of the Quinalt Indian Reservation; and 
  • Kalaloch, from the South Beach Campground north to Olympic National Park Beach Trail 3. 

 

During one season, Washington's recreational razor clam fishery sees more than 280,000 digging trips with individuals harvesting as many as 4 million Pacific razor clams for the season. A shellfish/seaweed license, combination license, or razor clam license is required for harvesting razor clams. 
Summary of Bill:

The Siliqua patula, or Pacific razor clam, is designated as the official clam of the state of Washington. 
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Creates Committee/Commission/Task Force that includes Legislative members: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.