Growth in trans-Pacific trade  
challenges | solutions| links
last update: April 18, 2002

Photo Courtesy of Caitlin Sweeney

Challenges
Increased trans-Pacific trade brings a number of environmental consequences to the Pacific Northwest.  International shipping plays a significant role in the global transport of non-native aquatic species.  Ballast water and associated sediment and equipment carry hundreds of species from port to port, ranging from pathogens to larvae of invasive fish and shellfish. Increases in vessel speed and efficiency have contributed to escalating rates of ballast-related introductions.

Solutions

Links 

• West Coast Ballast Outreach Project
  http://ballast-outreach-ucsgep.ucdavis.edu/

• Pacific NW Marine Invasive Species Team http://seagrant.orst.edu/mist

• National Ballast Water Clearinghouse http://invasions.si.edu/ballast.htm

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