New Oregon Dungeness crab license plate is 'claws' for celebration!

PORTLAND, Ore. — Oregon drivers could soon have a new option for their license plate that supports one of the state’s favorite coastal crustaceans.

Sales of the Oregon Dungeness Crab plates would raise money for programs that support and sustain the Oregon Dungeness crab fishery.

The state Department of Fish and Wildlife says the fishery, which covers crabbing in the ocean and Columbia River, is considered the state’s “most valuable single-species commercial fishery.”

Those who are interested will need to shell out $40 for a voucher, which can be exchanged for a new plate at the Oregon DMV once they are in production.

The campaign must first sell 3,000 vouchers for the license plates before the DMV will implement the new plate. If they reach their goal, they will begin the production process of the license plates, which could take several months to complete.

The design features an iconic orange Dungeness crab against a light sea blue backdrop.

Proceeds from the license plates will support programs focusing on keeping dungeness populations healthy.

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While the vouchers are sold out the plates will eventually be available at Oregon DMV locations. There's more information about the plate here.

This is not the only Oregon coast creature to recently get a license plate campaign. Drivers can also purchase vouchers to support the salmon shark, or the tufted puffin.