Hama Hama Oyster Company: A Century of Shellfish and Sustainability Nestled on the shores of Washington’s majestic Olympic Peninsula, the Hama Hama Oyster Company stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of sustainable shellfish farming. With a history that spans over a century, this family-run business has become synonymous with quality, tradition, and environmental stewardship. The Early Years The story of Hama Hama begins in the 1890s when Daniel Miller Robbins purchased property along Hood Canal with timber in mind1. It was his grandson, Bart Robbins, who, in the 1950s, recognized the potential of the land’s aquatic bounty and branched into the oyster business1. This marked the beginning of a new era for the Robbins family, intertwining their lives with the ebb and flow of the tides. A Family Affair Over the years, Hama Hama has grown into a sixth-generation family-run shellfish farm2. The company’s beds are located at the mouth of one of the shortest, coldest, and least developed rivers in Washington State, and this purity is reflected in the clean, crisp flavor of the oysters downstream2. The family’s dedication to low-impact farming methods has not only yielded world-class oysters but also ensured the preservation of their pristine environment for future generations. Innovation and Tradition In the 1970s, Bart Robbins introduced seed racks to collect wild oyster larvae during spawning season, a practice that combined traditional methods with modern innovation2. Today, Adam, a member of the latest generation, continues to use modern growing techniques alongside the natural-catch methods from his grandfather’s era2. The farm’s ecosystem, from forest to flats and from saltwater to fresh, is always in transition, reflecting the family’s deep connection to both water and woods. Celebrating a Centennial In 2022, Hama Hama Company celebrated its centennial, marking 100 years of business with the family3. This milestone is not just a celebration of longevity but also a reflection of the company’s evolution from resource extraction to restorative stewardship. The company has remained small by modern standards, a conscious choice that aligns with their values rooted in family, sustainability, and love for their work in woods and water3. The Hama Hama Today The Hama Hama Oyster Company sells its oysters at the farm store and oyster saloon, pop-ups throughout the Puget Sound and Portland regions, and directly to consumers and chefs nationwide2. The company grows two varieties of oysters at their home farm: classic, beach-grown Hama Hamas and tumble-farmed Blue Pools. They also source oysters from elsewhere in Washington State, procuring super-sweet Sea Cows and Hove Coves from the nutrient-rich estuaries of South Puget Sound2. Conclusion The Hama Hama Oyster Company’s journey from a timberland venture to a beacon of sustainable shellfish farming is a story of adaptation, innovation, and unwavering commitment to quality. As they look to the future, the Robbins family continues to honor their ancestors’ legacy while embracing the challenges and opportunities that come with being stewards of one of nature’s most precious resources231.
Learn more 1 seattlebusinessmag.com |