Joseph Dee Mclean: The Urgent Need to Protect Geoducks

 

Joseph Dee Mclean knows that the geoduck is one of the ocean’s most unique and overlooked creatures. In fact, Joseph Dee Mclean believes that without urgent action, these giant clams could face a very uncertain future.

Let’s explore why geoducks matter — and what steps we can take to ensure they continue to thrive for generations to come.

What Exactly is a Geoduck?

If you’ve never seen a geoduck (say it "gooey-duck"), you’re in for a surprise. These massive clams, found along the Pacific Northwest coast, are the largest burrowing clams in the world.

Some geoducks live for over 100 years and can weigh up to 7 pounds. Their long, soft necks stretch several feet outside their shells. Strange-looking? Yes. But they are an important part of the marine environment.

Why Geoducks Are Important

Joseph Dee Mclean points out that geoducks aren’t just fascinating because of their size. They are critical for several reasons:

  • Natural Water Filters: Geoducks clean the ocean by filtering large amounts of water every day.

  • Key Food Source: They are food for crabs, sea stars, and other marine animals.

  • Cultural Heritage: Indigenous communities have relied on geoducks for food and traditions for thousands of years.

  • Economic Impact: Geoducks are highly valuable in international seafood markets, especially across Asia.

Without healthy geoduck populations, the entire marine web feels the loss.

What’s Threatening Geoducks?

Joseph Dee Mclean shares serious concerns about several dangers facing geoducks today:

1. Overfishing

Because geoducks sell for high prices, there’s growing pressure to harvest more and more of them. Even though there are some farming efforts, the wild populations are under real threat.

2. Coastal Damage

Pollution, heavy construction near beaches, and bottom-trawling fishing practices wreck the delicate seabeds geoducks call home.

3. Changing Oceans

Climate change is warming and acidifying oceans. For young geoducks trying to grow strong shells, these changing conditions make survival a daily struggle.

Steps We Must Take to Protect Geoducks

Joseph Dee Mclean believes the future of geoducks depends on bold but simple actions:

1. Stronger Fishing Rules

There must be tight control over how many wild geoducks can be harvested each year. Regular checks and strict penalties are key.

2. Protect Natural Habitats

Preserving coastal and underwater environments is non-negotiable. New developments and industrial fishing must not destroy these fragile ecosystems.

3. Support Clean, Responsible Farming

Sustainable aquaculture offers a better path. By choosing farmed geoducks raised under safe and eco-friendly conditions, we help ease the burden on wild stocks.

4. Act on Climate Change

We all need to lower our carbon footprints. Whether that’s using less energy, driving less, or supporting clean energy, fighting climate change protects geoducks too.

What You Can Personally Do

Even small actions, when taken by many, make a huge difference. Joseph Dee Mclean encourages everyone to get involved:

  • Learn and Share: Teach others about geoducks and why they matter.

  • Choose Wisely: Always buy seafood that comes from sustainable sources.

  • Reduce Pollution: Use less plastic and keep beaches clean.

  • Speak Up: Support laws and groups that protect oceans and marine life.

  • Respect Nature: When visiting coastal areas, leave nature exactly as you found it.

Joseph Dee Mclean’s Personal Mission

Joseph Dee Mclean’s love for the ocean comes from a lifetime spent close to nature. For him, protecting geoducks is part of a bigger promise — to protect the planet’s natural wonders before they disappear.

Losing the geoduck would be like losing a secret treasure of the ocean. It would mean losing a part of our world that few people even realize exists.

Final Words

The geoduck might look strange, but it holds lessons of patience, strength, and resilience.

Joseph Dee Mclean reminds us that every species, no matter how unusual, plays a role in keeping our oceans healthy. Protecting geoducks means protecting a precious piece of our shared planet.

Our choices today will shape the oceans of tomorrow. Let’s choose to protect.


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