The committee will review the Clatsop County budget at a meeting Monday, May 3 beginning at 9 a.m. at the Judge Guy Boyington Building, 857 Commercial St., Astoria. If necessary, the meeting will continue Tuesday, May 4 following the meeting on the four service district budgets, and if further necessary on Wednesday, May 5 at 9 a.m.
The service district budget meeting begins Tuesday, May 4 at 9 a.m. at the Boyington Building to review the proposed 2010-11 budgets of the Rural Law Enforcement District, Road District No. 1, Westport Sewer Service District and Clatsop County 4-H and Extension Service Special District.
After reviewing the budget documents, the committee will give members of the public the opportunity to ask questions and provide input.
The budget committee is made up of the five county commissioners and five citizen members.
The board of commissioners is scheduled to hold a public hearing on all five budgets at its regular June 9 meeting. Adoption of the budgets is scheduled for June 23.
The entire proposed 2010-11 Clatsop County budget is available for review on the Clatsop County website, www.co.clatsop.or.us.
No meeting has been scheduled by the Clatsop County Board of Commissioners regarding the county’s participation in the appeal filed by Bradwood LLC/NorthernStar LLC in the Oregon Court of Appeals over the April 12 Oregon Land Use Board of Appeals remand ruling. The county will announce by Friday, April 30 if and when a meeting on this subject will be held.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Columbia-Pacific National Heritage Area Backers Seek Public Input
The public comment period for the draft feasibility study is still open. You have until May 3rd to submit your written comments.
Four public meetings, in Astoria, Seaside, Cathlamet, and Ilwaco—cities within the proposed boundary of the Columbia-Pacific National Heritage Area—recently wrapped up.
“The nuts and bolts of what we’re proposing—the heritage investment strategy—we received overall positive comments,” said Jay Flint of ShoreBank Enterprise Cascadia, the non-profit community development institution, which is coordinating the effort.
SBEC plans to leverage federal seed money to create an investment fund up to $15 million for entrepreneurs who are helping preserve our region’s heritage. This is based on the idea that communities within Clatsop, Pacific, and Wahkiakum Counties, share natural resource-based economies, including tourism, fishing, farming, and logging.
This revolving loan fund approach is cutting-edge for national heritage areas, which have largely been grant-based, and focused on promotions that don’t directly generate money back into the program. The National Park Service, which administers these heritage areas, has been seeking a new model to make them financially self-sustaining.
SBEC will incorporate public comments into the final draft of the feasibility study, set for mid-May, and then start the process of seeking congressional authorization for the heritage area, aiming for approval this year.
The next major phase of the national heritage area would be building an implementation plan, which includes heavy public involvement, and the creation of an advisory board consisting of representatives from all three counties. Federal funds would then become available.
There are 49 national heritage areas around the country. This would be the first on the West coast. A major part of the criteria for designation would be that this region played a significant and unique role in the story of our nation.
“In terms of the West coast, this is some of the richest history and some of the longest. You can feel it, and see it in the buildings and industries that are still here,” said Flint.
Four public meetings, in Astoria, Seaside, Cathlamet, and Ilwaco—cities within the proposed boundary of the Columbia-Pacific National Heritage Area—recently wrapped up.
“The nuts and bolts of what we’re proposing—the heritage investment strategy—we received overall positive comments,” said Jay Flint of ShoreBank Enterprise Cascadia, the non-profit community development institution, which is coordinating the effort.
SBEC plans to leverage federal seed money to create an investment fund up to $15 million for entrepreneurs who are helping preserve our region’s heritage. This is based on the idea that communities within Clatsop, Pacific, and Wahkiakum Counties, share natural resource-based economies, including tourism, fishing, farming, and logging.
This revolving loan fund approach is cutting-edge for national heritage areas, which have largely been grant-based, and focused on promotions that don’t directly generate money back into the program. The National Park Service, which administers these heritage areas, has been seeking a new model to make them financially self-sustaining.
SBEC will incorporate public comments into the final draft of the feasibility study, set for mid-May, and then start the process of seeking congressional authorization for the heritage area, aiming for approval this year.
The next major phase of the national heritage area would be building an implementation plan, which includes heavy public involvement, and the creation of an advisory board consisting of representatives from all three counties. Federal funds would then become available.
There are 49 national heritage areas around the country. This would be the first on the West coast. A major part of the criteria for designation would be that this region played a significant and unique role in the story of our nation.
“In terms of the West coast, this is some of the richest history and some of the longest. You can feel it, and see it in the buildings and industries that are still here,” said Flint.
‘SWITCHEROO’ CONTEST PROMOTES CLATSOP COUNTY EMPLOYEE WELLNESS
Taking the stairs instead of the elevator paid off for Clatsop County employee Kristin Webb in Clatsop County’s latest employee wellness event.
Webb, a Child Support Agent with the District Attorney’s Office, won a $75 gift certificate from the Astoria Cooperative as the winning name drawn Tuesday, April 27 in the “Old Switcheroo” contest.
The Switcheroo is one of several initiatives of the Fitness Initiative Team (FIT). An employee group representing every Clatsop County department, the FIT Team organizes events and contests designed to encourage more healthy habits and lifestyles for the county’s 230 employees.
Other FIT programs have included a “Biggest Loser” weight-loss challenge that not only prompted more exercise and better diet among the participants, but also raised donations for Clatsop Community Action Regional Food Bank.
A total of 23 county workers joined the Switcheroo contest, in which participants pledged to replace a food, habit or activity with a healthier one. They made changes like replacing coffee and soda with water and tea, and chips with fruit, and going walking or bike riding instead of watching TV or web-surfing.
Along with taking the stairs to and from her office, Webb’s switches included eliminating salt and her morning scone.
The FIT programs are funded by special payments from Clatsop County’s insurance provider, City County Insurance, dedicated solely to employee wellness activities.
Oregon Department of Human Services seeks input on North Coast beach usage
We are seeking information on the type of recreational activities people engage in at the beaches listed below from those who live and work on the coast and have a fuller understanding than we do of the beaches in your area.
In your estimation, is the ocean at these beaches used by people for recreation (e.g., swimming, surfing, in-water recreation) or is it primarily an on-beach recreation site?
Jennifer Ketterman
BEACH Program Coordinator
Environmental Public Health
Oregon Department of Human Services
800 NE Oregon Street, Suite 640
Portland, OR 97232
(971) 673-0431
jennifer.a.ketterman@state.or.us
In your estimation, is the ocean at these beaches used by people for recreation (e.g., swimming, surfing, in-water recreation) or is it primarily an on-beach recreation site?
Jennifer Ketterman
BEACH Program Coordinator
Environmental Public Health
Oregon Department of Human Services
800 NE Oregon Street, Suite 640
Portland, OR 97232
(971) 673-0431
jennifer.a.ketterman@state.or.us
Estuary Partnership offers community canoe trip
The Lower Columbia River Estuary Partnership is hosting a leisurely paddle for community members around Coffenbury Lake at Fort Stevens State Park on Monday, May 17th. Join us on our two 34’ voyageur style canoes to watch the wildlife and experience the area from a unique on-water perspective. Bald eagles, osprey, and cormorants are just a few of the local birds that paddlers may see.
The evening paddle coincides with the Estuary Partnership environmental educators delivering applied learning programs, including classroom and on-water lessons, to elementary school students in the area. The voyageur canoes of the Estuary Partnership will be in Coffenbury Lake from May 17-20th for the student programs.
There is no charge for this evening paddle adventure! Parking at Fort Stevens State Park is $5.00. Space is available for 32 people on a first come first served basis. Reservations are required. To reserve your seat please contact McKenzie Miller at 503-226-1565 x 229 or miller@lcrep.org. Paddlers should meet at 5:30 pm at the Coffenbury Lake boat ramp near Picnic Shelter A. Personal flotation devices, in standard sizes, for ages 5 and above are provided.
The Estuary Partnership was established in 1995 by the governors of Washington and Oregon and the US EPA to provide a coordinated, regional voice to improve ecological conditions of the lower river. The lower Columbia River is an “Estuary of National Significance,” one of only 28 in the nation. Using a watershed ecosystem based approach, the Estuary Partnership works across political boundaries with 28 cities, nine counties, 38 school districts and the states of Oregon and Washington over an area that stretches 146 miles from Bonneville Dam to the Pacific Ocean. It is the lead two-state entity working in partnership with the private sector and government agencies focused on the ecosystem. The Estuary Partnership is a public 501(C) (3) non-profit corporation with a Board of Directors representing the diverse public and private interests and geography of the lower river.
The evening paddle coincides with the Estuary Partnership environmental educators delivering applied learning programs, including classroom and on-water lessons, to elementary school students in the area. The voyageur canoes of the Estuary Partnership will be in Coffenbury Lake from May 17-20th for the student programs.
There is no charge for this evening paddle adventure! Parking at Fort Stevens State Park is $5.00. Space is available for 32 people on a first come first served basis. Reservations are required. To reserve your seat please contact McKenzie Miller at 503-226-1565 x 229 or miller@lcrep.org. Paddlers should meet at 5:30 pm at the Coffenbury Lake boat ramp near Picnic Shelter A. Personal flotation devices, in standard sizes, for ages 5 and above are provided.
The Estuary Partnership was established in 1995 by the governors of Washington and Oregon and the US EPA to provide a coordinated, regional voice to improve ecological conditions of the lower river. The lower Columbia River is an “Estuary of National Significance,” one of only 28 in the nation. Using a watershed ecosystem based approach, the Estuary Partnership works across political boundaries with 28 cities, nine counties, 38 school districts and the states of Oregon and Washington over an area that stretches 146 miles from Bonneville Dam to the Pacific Ocean. It is the lead two-state entity working in partnership with the private sector and government agencies focused on the ecosystem. The Estuary Partnership is a public 501(C) (3) non-profit corporation with a Board of Directors representing the diverse public and private interests and geography of the lower river.
MEETINGS SET FOR CLATSOP COUNTY, SERVICE DISTRICT 2010-11 BUDGETS
The Clatsop County Budget Committee will hold meetings on the proposed 2010-11 budgets for the county and four service districts next week.
The committee will review the Clatsop County budget at a meeting Monday, May 3 beginning at 9 a.m. at the Judge Guy Boyington Building, 857 Commercial St., Astoria. If necessary, the meeting will continue Tuesday, May 4 following the meeting on the four service district budgets, and if further necessary on Wednesday, May 5 at 9 a.m.
The service district budget meeting begins Tuesday, May 4 at 9 a.m. at the Boyington Building to review the proposed 2010-11 budgets of the Rural Law Enforcement District, Road District No. 1, Westport Sewer Service District and Clatsop County 4-H and Extension Service Special District.
After reviewing the budget documents, the committee will give members of the public the opportunity to ask questions and provide input.
The budget committee is made up of the five county commissioners and five citizen members.
The board of commissioners is scheduled to hold a public hearing on all five budgets at its regular June 9 meeting. Adoption of the budgets is scheduled for June 23.
The entire proposed 2010-11 Clatsop County budget is available for review on the Clatsop County website, www.co.clatsop.or.us. Copies are also available at libraries in Astoria, Warrenton, Seaside and Cannon Beach, or at the Clatsop County Manager’s Office, 800 Exchange St., Suite 410, Astoria.
Copies of the four service district budgets can be viewed at the County Manager’s Office.
The committee will review the Clatsop County budget at a meeting Monday, May 3 beginning at 9 a.m. at the Judge Guy Boyington Building, 857 Commercial St., Astoria. If necessary, the meeting will continue Tuesday, May 4 following the meeting on the four service district budgets, and if further necessary on Wednesday, May 5 at 9 a.m.
The service district budget meeting begins Tuesday, May 4 at 9 a.m. at the Boyington Building to review the proposed 2010-11 budgets of the Rural Law Enforcement District, Road District No. 1, Westport Sewer Service District and Clatsop County 4-H and Extension Service Special District.
After reviewing the budget documents, the committee will give members of the public the opportunity to ask questions and provide input.
The budget committee is made up of the five county commissioners and five citizen members.
The board of commissioners is scheduled to hold a public hearing on all five budgets at its regular June 9 meeting. Adoption of the budgets is scheduled for June 23.
The entire proposed 2010-11 Clatsop County budget is available for review on the Clatsop County website, www.co.clatsop.or.us. Copies are also available at libraries in Astoria, Warrenton, Seaside and Cannon Beach, or at the Clatsop County Manager’s Office, 800 Exchange St., Suite 410, Astoria.
Copies of the four service district budgets can be viewed at the County Manager’s Office.
14th and Marine in Astoria, Lane Closure Thurs, Apr 29
ASTORIA—An Oregon Department of Transportation electrical crew will be closing one lane of traffic on Thursday, April 29 at 14th and Marine to perform underground electrical work. At least one lane of traffic will remain open during the day.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Beach monitoring program seeks public input
Public can help pick which beaches need water quality testing
Oregon Public Health experts want to hear from the public regarding its list of proposed beach monitoring sites for the 2010 summer season.
The beach monitoring program tests the water quality at selected Oregon beaches and notifies the public when elevated levels of bacteria are detected.
Beaches are placed on the list based on the presence of pollution hazards, previous monitoring data showing compliance risks, use of the beach by the public, and recommendation by members of the public.
“Public input is an important part of deciding which beaches should be listed,” said Jennifer Ketterman, beach monitoring program coordinator. “We want to know if Oregonians agree these sites are where we should do water quality testing – and why or why not. We welcome other comments as well.”
Comments will be taken starting today through Wednesday, April 28 at 5 p.m. Comments may be e-mailed to Ketterman at jennifer.a.ketterman@state.or.us, faxed to 971-673-0431 or mailed to Jennifer Ketterman, 800 NE Oregon St., Suite 640, Portland, OR 97232.
Since 2003 Oregon Public Health officials have used a federal Environmental Protection Agency grant to monitor popular Oregon beaches and make timely reports to the public about elevated levels of fecal bacteria. Other state agencies participating in this program include the Department of Environmental Quality and the Parks and Recreation Department. The proposed list of summer 2010 beach monitoring sites for consideration is on the web at http://www.oregon.gov/DHS/ph/beaches/index.shtml
Oregon Public Health experts want to hear from the public regarding its list of proposed beach monitoring sites for the 2010 summer season.
The beach monitoring program tests the water quality at selected Oregon beaches and notifies the public when elevated levels of bacteria are detected.
Beaches are placed on the list based on the presence of pollution hazards, previous monitoring data showing compliance risks, use of the beach by the public, and recommendation by members of the public.
“Public input is an important part of deciding which beaches should be listed,” said Jennifer Ketterman, beach monitoring program coordinator. “We want to know if Oregonians agree these sites are where we should do water quality testing – and why or why not. We welcome other comments as well.”
Comments will be taken starting today through Wednesday, April 28 at 5 p.m. Comments may be e-mailed to Ketterman at jennifer.a.ketterman@state.or.us, faxed to 971-673-0431 or mailed to Jennifer Ketterman, 800 NE Oregon St., Suite 640, Portland, OR 97232.
Since 2003 Oregon Public Health officials have used a federal Environmental Protection Agency grant to monitor popular Oregon beaches and make timely reports to the public about elevated levels of fecal bacteria. Other state agencies participating in this program include the Department of Environmental Quality and the Parks and Recreation Department. The proposed list of summer 2010 beach monitoring sites for consideration is on the web at http://www.oregon.gov/DHS/ph/beaches/index.shtml
ODOT finishes bridge repairs early on OR 6 and U.S. 26
TILLAMOOK—Three bridges on Oregon 6 and U.S. 26 in Tillamook and Washington counties are stronger and safer, six months earlier than planned.
Crews with the MJ Hughes Construction Company of Gresham, a contractor for the Oregon Department of Transportation, finished repairing the bridge over Jordan Creek where it meets with the Wilson River on Oregon 6 at milepost 18, and another bridge over the Wilson River at milepost 11.8. The third bridge repair was on westbound U.S. 26 over the Portland & Western Railroad tracks at milepost 55.7, just east of the Dersham Road interchange.
The bridges were built between 1937 and 1951, and needed to be strengthened to improve safety and mobility. Funding for this project came from the Oregon Transportation Investment Act.
Crews with the MJ Hughes Construction Company of Gresham, a contractor for the Oregon Department of Transportation, finished repairing the bridge over Jordan Creek where it meets with the Wilson River on Oregon 6 at milepost 18, and another bridge over the Wilson River at milepost 11.8. The third bridge repair was on westbound U.S. 26 over the Portland & Western Railroad tracks at milepost 55.7, just east of the Dersham Road interchange.
The bridges were built between 1937 and 1951, and needed to be strengthened to improve safety and mobility. Funding for this project came from the Oregon Transportation Investment Act.
FORESTRY DEPARTMENT TO HOLD LAND EXCHANGE HEARING MAY 3 IN ASTORIA
A public hearing is scheduled May 3 in Astoria to consider a proposed Oregon Department of Forestry land exchange that would consolidate state forest lands and improve public access.
The hearing will be held at the Judge Guy Boyington Building, 857 Commercial Street, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
The proposed exchange involves 805 acres of state-owned land and 720 acres owned, or being acquired by, the City of Cannon Beach. The land values, including harvestable timber, are approximately equal, according to an independent appraisal. Third-party assessments also were conducted for sensitive plant, fish and wildlife habitat. ODF completed an assessment of recreational values.
Maps and details about the parcels are available at: http://egov.oregon.gov/ODF/STATE_FORESTS/cannonbeachexchange.shtml. Copies of the documents may be obtained from ODF's Patty Cate, (503) 945-7350 or pcate@odf.state.or.us.
A public comment period runs through June 4. Written comments, which must be received by 5 p.m. on that date, should be sent to Patty Cate. Oregon Department of Forestry, 2600 State St., Salem, OR 97310, or by e-mail at pcate@odf.state.or.us.
The hearings officer will issue a report after the hearing and comment period. Clatsop County commissioners are expected to hold a meeting later this spring or summer to consider the exchange. If the county commission gives its approval, the exchange moves to the Board of Forestry for consideration.
The hearing will be held at the Judge Guy Boyington Building, 857 Commercial Street, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
The proposed exchange involves 805 acres of state-owned land and 720 acres owned, or being acquired by, the City of Cannon Beach. The land values, including harvestable timber, are approximately equal, according to an independent appraisal. Third-party assessments also were conducted for sensitive plant, fish and wildlife habitat. ODF completed an assessment of recreational values.
Maps and details about the parcels are available at: http://egov.oregon.gov/ODF/STATE_FORESTS/cannonbeachexchange.shtml. Copies of the documents may be obtained from ODF's Patty Cate, (503) 945-7350 or pcate@odf.state.or.us.
A public comment period runs through June 4. Written comments, which must be received by 5 p.m. on that date, should be sent to Patty Cate. Oregon Department of Forestry, 2600 State St., Salem, OR 97310, or by e-mail at pcate@odf.state.or.us.
The hearings officer will issue a report after the hearing and comment period. Clatsop County commissioners are expected to hold a meeting later this spring or summer to consider the exchange. If the county commission gives its approval, the exchange moves to the Board of Forestry for consideration.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Voters’ Pamphlet Goes in the Mail Today
Salem - More than 1.7 million Voters’ Pamphlets for the May 18, 2010 primary election start going in the mail today (Wednesday).
Every Oregon household will receive a copy, reaching the state’s 2.1 million registered voters.
On the ballot are partisan primary elections for U.S. Senate, governor, state treasurer, Oregon’s five seats in the U.S. House of Representatives, the state House and half the state Senate. Other positions on the ballot include the superintendent of public instruction, the Oregon Supreme Court, the Oregon Court of Appeals, circuit court judges, district attorneys and county judges, which are a mostly administrative post in small counties.
The ballot includes two measures referred to voters statewide by the Oregon Legislature. One, Measure 68, allows the state to issue bonds matching voter-approved school district bonds for capital expenditures. The other, Measure 69, updates the authority for lowest costs borrowing by community colleges and public universities. The Voters’ Pamphlet will have seven arguments in support of each measure. No arguments were filed in opposition.
An audio edition and an edition in Spanish will be available starting Monday April 26 at oregonvotes.org, the web site of the Elections Division.
Oregonians have until April 27 to register to vote in the May 18 primary.
Ballots will start going in the mail Friday April 30.
You can register to vote, change your address, change your party registration or find out if you’ll receive a ballot by going to oregonvotes.org.
Every Oregon household will receive a copy, reaching the state’s 2.1 million registered voters.
On the ballot are partisan primary elections for U.S. Senate, governor, state treasurer, Oregon’s five seats in the U.S. House of Representatives, the state House and half the state Senate. Other positions on the ballot include the superintendent of public instruction, the Oregon Supreme Court, the Oregon Court of Appeals, circuit court judges, district attorneys and county judges, which are a mostly administrative post in small counties.
The ballot includes two measures referred to voters statewide by the Oregon Legislature. One, Measure 68, allows the state to issue bonds matching voter-approved school district bonds for capital expenditures. The other, Measure 69, updates the authority for lowest costs borrowing by community colleges and public universities. The Voters’ Pamphlet will have seven arguments in support of each measure. No arguments were filed in opposition.
An audio edition and an edition in Spanish will be available starting Monday April 26 at oregonvotes.org, the web site of the Elections Division.
Oregonians have until April 27 to register to vote in the May 18 primary.
Ballots will start going in the mail Friday April 30.
You can register to vote, change your address, change your party registration or find out if you’ll receive a ballot by going to oregonvotes.org.
TILLAMOOK JETTY ACCESS CLOSED
PORTLAND, ORE. Public access to the Tillamook north jetty aand part of the jetty parking lot will be prohibited beginning May 3, 2010 as contract workers for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers set up equipment and prepare to begin jetty repairs.
Construction will take place between June and September 2010. The north part of the parking lot and a viewing area will remain open. The complete jetty parking lot will reopen no later than Sept. 30, 2010.
A revetment that was constructed in 2004 is showing signs of deterioration and will also be repaired as part of this project. The revetment helps prevent shoreline erosion and protects the jetty root and parking lot.
The Corps awarded the $16.1 million dollar contract to repair and cap the Tillamook north jetty to Kiewit Pacific in July 2009. Delivery of the stones, which average 35 tons each, began in October and will continue through June 2010. The rocks are delivered to the staging area near the north jetty via public roads and through the Barview County Campground and Park.
The Tillamook jetties have experienced damage, including significant loss of length. This repair work will stabilize the north jetty -- protecting the federal investment at this location and reliability of the navigation channel for the next 50 years.
Jetties were constructed to aid vessels traveling between rivers and the ocean, and were never intended for recreational purposes -- climbing, hiking or fishing. Jetties can be very dangerous and should be admired for their complexity and contributions to the region from a safe distance.
Construction will take place between June and September 2010. The north part of the parking lot and a viewing area will remain open. The complete jetty parking lot will reopen no later than Sept. 30, 2010.
A revetment that was constructed in 2004 is showing signs of deterioration and will also be repaired as part of this project. The revetment helps prevent shoreline erosion and protects the jetty root and parking lot.
The Corps awarded the $16.1 million dollar contract to repair and cap the Tillamook north jetty to Kiewit Pacific in July 2009. Delivery of the stones, which average 35 tons each, began in October and will continue through June 2010. The rocks are delivered to the staging area near the north jetty via public roads and through the Barview County Campground and Park.
The Tillamook jetties have experienced damage, including significant loss of length. This repair work will stabilize the north jetty -- protecting the federal investment at this location and reliability of the navigation channel for the next 50 years.
Jetties were constructed to aid vessels traveling between rivers and the ocean, and were never intended for recreational purposes -- climbing, hiking or fishing. Jetties can be very dangerous and should be admired for their complexity and contributions to the region from a safe distance.
Monday, April 19, 2010
REVIEW OF BRADWOOD SUPPLEMENTAL APPLICATIONS PUT ON HOLD
Clatsop County’s review of eight supplemental applications related to the proposed Bradwood Landing LNG project has been put on hold pending the outcome of challenges to the development.
On Friday, Land Use Hearings Officer Peter Livingston concluded an extended public hearing held regarding the eight applications, then announced that his review of and possible ruling on the applications will be continued to an unspecified future date to allow for possible appeals or other actions stemming from this week’s ruling from the Oregon Land Use Board of Appeals on the Bradwood project.
In a decision issued April 12, LUBA directed Clatsop County to revisit two issues from the original project application ? the development’s size and measures for protecting salmon and fishing areas. LUBA’s ruling came as a result of an appeal filed by several project opponents against the conditional approval granted to the application by the county in March 2008.
In 2009 the project developer, Bradwood Landing LLC/NorthernStar Energy LLC, submitted supplemental applications for eight components required under the county’s March 2008 conditional approval of the proposed liquefied natural gas terminal and associated facilities at Bradwood Landing 25 miles east of Astoria. Those supplemental applications cover the Shoreline Monitoring Plan, Dredge Material Disposal Plan, Park-and-Ride Plan, Mitigation Plan, Clifton and Bradwood Road Improvements Conditional Use Permit, Decommissioning Plan, Riparian Vegetation Restoration Plan, and Erosion and Sediment Control Plan.
At Friday’s hearing Jeff Bennett, counsel to Clatsop County for the Bradwood application, told Livingston the county is concerned that the LUBA ruling could have an impact on its review of the eight supplemental applications, and asked that the proceedings be continued for at least 21 days. Bradwood/NorthernStar has 21 days to request an appeal of LUBA’s decision to the Oregon Court of Appeals. It also has the option of requesting a new public hearing on the remand issues.
Livingston took additional public testimony Friday, then announced that the review process for the supplemental applications will be put on hold indefinitely in order to allow the appeal or remand process to provide more clarity for the status of the eight applications. A seven-day comment period to receive additional written input after the close of the public hearing has also been suspended.
Notice will be given when the application review process is resumed.
More information on the Bradwood application can be found on the Clatsop County website.
On Friday, Land Use Hearings Officer Peter Livingston concluded an extended public hearing held regarding the eight applications, then announced that his review of and possible ruling on the applications will be continued to an unspecified future date to allow for possible appeals or other actions stemming from this week’s ruling from the Oregon Land Use Board of Appeals on the Bradwood project.
In a decision issued April 12, LUBA directed Clatsop County to revisit two issues from the original project application ? the development’s size and measures for protecting salmon and fishing areas. LUBA’s ruling came as a result of an appeal filed by several project opponents against the conditional approval granted to the application by the county in March 2008.
In 2009 the project developer, Bradwood Landing LLC/NorthernStar Energy LLC, submitted supplemental applications for eight components required under the county’s March 2008 conditional approval of the proposed liquefied natural gas terminal and associated facilities at Bradwood Landing 25 miles east of Astoria. Those supplemental applications cover the Shoreline Monitoring Plan, Dredge Material Disposal Plan, Park-and-Ride Plan, Mitigation Plan, Clifton and Bradwood Road Improvements Conditional Use Permit, Decommissioning Plan, Riparian Vegetation Restoration Plan, and Erosion and Sediment Control Plan.
At Friday’s hearing Jeff Bennett, counsel to Clatsop County for the Bradwood application, told Livingston the county is concerned that the LUBA ruling could have an impact on its review of the eight supplemental applications, and asked that the proceedings be continued for at least 21 days. Bradwood/NorthernStar has 21 days to request an appeal of LUBA’s decision to the Oregon Court of Appeals. It also has the option of requesting a new public hearing on the remand issues.
Livingston took additional public testimony Friday, then announced that the review process for the supplemental applications will be put on hold indefinitely in order to allow the appeal or remand process to provide more clarity for the status of the eight applications. A seven-day comment period to receive additional written input after the close of the public hearing has also been suspended.
Notice will be given when the application review process is resumed.
More information on the Bradwood application can be found on the Clatsop County website.
Friday, April 16, 2010
Clatsop County Commissioners' Candidates Forum
Candidates for all 3 Clatsop County Commissioner Districts will be speaking at a Forum which will take place on Thursday, April 22, 2010, at 7:00 p.m. at the Clatsop Community College Performing Arts Center, 16th and Franklin, Astoria.
These candidates include: Scott Lee and Jeff Hazen for District 1; John Raichl and Peter Huhtula for District 3; and Debra Birkby, John Dunzer and Robert Mushen for District 5.
While votes are cast for the County Commissioner who represents the district where the voter resides, each County Commissioner makes decisions which affect the entire County. The Board of Commissioners also hires a County Manager to carry out its policies and oversee the day-to-day operations of County government.
The Forum is co-sponsored by the Astoria Chapter of the American Association of University Women and Clatsop Community College. The speakers will be invited to give an opening statement and will answer questions submitted by the audience.
These candidates include: Scott Lee and Jeff Hazen for District 1; John Raichl and Peter Huhtula for District 3; and Debra Birkby, John Dunzer and Robert Mushen for District 5.
While votes are cast for the County Commissioner who represents the district where the voter resides, each County Commissioner makes decisions which affect the entire County. The Board of Commissioners also hires a County Manager to carry out its policies and oversee the day-to-day operations of County government.
The Forum is co-sponsored by the Astoria Chapter of the American Association of University Women and Clatsop Community College. The speakers will be invited to give an opening statement and will answer questions submitted by the audience.
CLATSOP COMMISSIONERS HONOR COUNTY VOLUNTEERS
COMMISSIONERS HONOR COUNTY VOLUNTEERS
They search for the missing, mentor troubled youth, care for abandoned animals and perform countless other tasks for no pay.
Wednesday, the Clatsop County Board of Commissioners presented its annual awards to the county’s top volunteers and recognized the hundreds of other individuals and groups who donate their time to the community.
Volunteers serve in dozens of capacities for virtually every county department, and donate their time on many boards and committees. Last year 639 volunteers logged a total of 26,686 hours of service for the county, work valued at $481,682.
The board hosted a reception for the volunteers at the Judge Guy Boyington Wednesday morning before its regularly scheduled meeting, where Commission Chair Jeff Hazen presented the individual awards and led the board in adopting a proclamation recognizing April 18-24 as Volunteer Week.
“Without all of our dedicated and generous volunteers, Clatsop County could not provide the level of services we offer to our citizens today,” Volunteer Coordinator Valerie Crafard said.
INDIVIDUAL VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR Starlene Everson
Nominated by Clatsop County Public Health Department
Everson volunteers for the County Public Health Department, where she performs a variety of tasks. She helps out at vaccination clinics and with data entry and developing interoffice procedures, sometimes devoting two or three full days a week.
Everson’s contributions greatly helped the Public Health Department as it went through a major reorganization and transition to new leadership. Department Director Margo Lalich said Everson’s work was especially helpful as the county dealt with the H1N1 flu outbreak.
OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER GROUP Clatsop County Search and Rescue Group>
Nominated by Sgt. Dean Schroeder, Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office
Members of the three volunteer teams in the SAR Group ? Search and Rescue Ground Team, High Angle Rescue Team and Underwater Recovery Team ? donate their expertise to find missing persons, rescue people trapped on cliffs and recover accident victims, often in cooperation with local fire and law enforcement agencies and the U.S. Coast Guard. They also find items of evidence and secure them in cases of criminal investigation.
Sgt. Dean Schroeder said the volunteers donated a total of 1,200 hours of service to the three teams last year, including during weekends, holidays and work hours. “They risk their lives and safety to help find and rescue members of the community as well as tourists visiting our area,” he said. “We’re proud of every one of them.”
Team members are:
GROUND TEAM: Scott Huls, Tina Huls, Amy Lenz, Vicki McGauley, Chris Paine, Nathan Philips, Ryan Richards, Dave Rouse, Patti Rouse, Tami Schultz, David Skarra, Derrick Snow, Ralph Stafford, Sam Whisler
HIGH ANGLE RESCUE TEAM: Gilberto Arciga, Mike Balzer, Charles Dice, Brian Hall, Scott Huls, Tina Huls, Troy Johnson, Kevin Miller, Steve Moon, Mark Morgans, Ryan Richards, Dave Rouse, Alan Smiles
UNDERWATER RECOVERY TEAM: James Cutchall, Shannon Danen, Brian Fite, Chris McNeary, Kevin Miller, Jay Murphy, Tom Snow, Michael Wahl
OUTSTANDING INDIVIDUAL WITHIN A GROUP Jake Bowser
Nominated by Sgt. Mark Whisler, Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office
“One of the nicest guys” according to Sheriff Tom Bergin, Bowser has brought his many years of law enforcement experience in interviewing and screening new applicants to the program and providing other assistance as a member of the Sheriff’s Office Reserve Deputy Program. He has also helped develop the department’s firearms and canine policies, helping with firearms training and participating in cold case investigations.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
SEASIDE-AREA WETLAND RESTORATION GARNERS LAND BOARD AWARD
The State Land Board has recognized the Neitzel Farm Habitat Restoration in an awards ceremony honoring exemplary efforts to promote responsible stewardship of Oregon's natural resources.
In presenting one of two 2009 Wetland Project Awards, Secretary of State Kate Brown, a member of the Land Board, praised the project as a "model of rural community networking."
The Neitzel farm is the last historic truck farm in the area that has not been subdivided. The owners Ernestine Neitzel and her son Les wanted to ensure the property would be preserved in a natural state in perpetuity. The project turned .61 acres on the farm into active wetlands.
The Neitzels worked with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Department of State Lands and Carex Consulting to construct the wetlands, which involved restoring and reconnecting off-channel wetlands to improve habitat for Coho salmon and other species.
The project involved a wide variety of partners, including the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board, the North Coast Land Conservancy, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Campbell Group LLC, Longview Timber Company, State Rep. Debbie Boone, the Necanicum Watershed Council, Trout Unlimited, Brims Farm & Garden, and many more public and private entities.
"More than 20 community groups contributed support ranging from hard dollar funding to donations of Christmas trees for use in the wetland complex," said project consultant Doug Ray of Carex Consulting. Ray noted that one of the more innovative concepts used in the design was placing upside-down conifers with root wads for raptor perching and potential nesting sites.
Ray also said that since connecting to the Necanicum River in November 2009, the created wetland complex has provided critical over-wintering habitat for more than 1,000 juvenile Coho and for spawning amphibians, including Oregon red-legged frogs, a state-listed species.
In her remarks, Secretary of State Brown noted the Neitzel Farm wetland restoration is "a wonderful example of how landowners with a vision can truly make a difference."
The State Land Board consists of Governor Theodore Kulongoski, Secretary of State Kate Brown and State Treasurer Ted Wheeler. The Department of State Lands administers diverse natural and fiscal resources. Many of the resources generate revenue for the Common School Fund, such as state-owned rangelands and timberlands, waterway leases, estates for which no will or heirs exist, and unclaimed property. Twice a year, the agency distributes fund investment earnings to support K-12 public schools. The agency also administers Oregon's Removal-Fill Law, which requires people removing or filling certain amounts of material in waters of the state to obtain a permit.
In presenting one of two 2009 Wetland Project Awards, Secretary of State Kate Brown, a member of the Land Board, praised the project as a "model of rural community networking."
The Neitzel farm is the last historic truck farm in the area that has not been subdivided. The owners Ernestine Neitzel and her son Les wanted to ensure the property would be preserved in a natural state in perpetuity. The project turned .61 acres on the farm into active wetlands.
The Neitzels worked with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Department of State Lands and Carex Consulting to construct the wetlands, which involved restoring and reconnecting off-channel wetlands to improve habitat for Coho salmon and other species.
The project involved a wide variety of partners, including the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board, the North Coast Land Conservancy, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Campbell Group LLC, Longview Timber Company, State Rep. Debbie Boone, the Necanicum Watershed Council, Trout Unlimited, Brims Farm & Garden, and many more public and private entities.
"More than 20 community groups contributed support ranging from hard dollar funding to donations of Christmas trees for use in the wetland complex," said project consultant Doug Ray of Carex Consulting. Ray noted that one of the more innovative concepts used in the design was placing upside-down conifers with root wads for raptor perching and potential nesting sites.
Ray also said that since connecting to the Necanicum River in November 2009, the created wetland complex has provided critical over-wintering habitat for more than 1,000 juvenile Coho and for spawning amphibians, including Oregon red-legged frogs, a state-listed species.
In her remarks, Secretary of State Brown noted the Neitzel Farm wetland restoration is "a wonderful example of how landowners with a vision can truly make a difference."
The State Land Board consists of Governor Theodore Kulongoski, Secretary of State Kate Brown and State Treasurer Ted Wheeler. The Department of State Lands administers diverse natural and fiscal resources. Many of the resources generate revenue for the Common School Fund, such as state-owned rangelands and timberlands, waterway leases, estates for which no will or heirs exist, and unclaimed property. Twice a year, the agency distributes fund investment earnings to support K-12 public schools. The agency also administers Oregon's Removal-Fill Law, which requires people removing or filling certain amounts of material in waters of the state to obtain a permit.
Barge capsizes near Astoria, Ore.
A Coast Guard 47-foot motor lifeboat from Station Cape Disappointment, Wash., is seen approaching a capsized barge eight miles west of the Columbia River bar near Astoria, Ore., Tuesday, April 13, 2010. The barge capsized while being towed by the tug Gen. Jackson and was carrying a load of scrap metal and approximately 500 gallons of diesel fuel. No injuries were reported. U.S. Coast Guard photos by Group/Air Station Astoria.
The crew of the 100-foot Canadian tug General Jackson contacted the Coast Guard to report their 295-foot barge had capsized at about 7:30 a.m. A Coast Guard MH-60 helicopter crew from Group/Air Station Astoria and a 47-foot motor lifeboat crew from Station Cape Disappointment in Ilwaco, Wash., were sent to the scene.
The barge was loaded with 4500 tons of scrap metal and contains approximately 500 gallons of diesel fuel. The scrap metal came free from the barge and fell to the bottom of the ocean. The capsizing occurred in approximately 300 feet of water and weather on scene was calm. The Coast Guard has contacted the vessel owner, the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, and the Washington Department of Ecology. No injuries have been reported and a light sheen has been observed coming from the vessel.
Friday, April 9, 2010
HEARING ON BRADWOOD SUPPLEMENTAL APPLICATIONS WRAPS UP APRIL 16
The public hearing on eight supplemental applications related to the proposed Bradwood Landing LNG project will conclude Friday, April 16. Another session of the hearing tentatively scheduled for April 13 has been cancelled.
The hearing began April 6 at the Judge Guy Boyington Building in Astoria and was continued Thursday, April 8. After all audience members at Thursday’s session had been offered the opportunity to testify, Hearings Officer Peter Livingston announced that a third session tentatively scheduled for Tuesday, April 13 would be cancelled and that the final session of the hearing will take place April 16.
That session will begin at 10 a.m. at the Boyington Building, 857 Commercial St., Astoria.
Project applicant Bradwood Landing LLC/NorthernStar Energy LLC has submitted supplemental applications for eight components required under the county’s March 2008 conditional approval of the proposed liquefied natural gas terminal and associated facilities at Bradwood Landing 25 miles east of Astoria. Those supplemental applications cover the Shoreline Monitoring Plan, Dredge Material Disposal Plan, Park-and-Ride Plan, Mitigation Plan, Clifton and Bradwood Road Improvements Conditional Use Permit, Decommissioning Plan, Riparian Vegetation Restoration Plan, and Erosion and Sediment Control Plan.
A copy of the applications, staff reports and public agency comments may be reviewed at the Clatsop County website, www.co.clatsop.or.us under “Bradwood Landing Supplemental Applications.” The documents are also available for review at the Clatsop County Transportation and Development Services ? Land Use Planning Office, 800 Exchange St., Suite 100, Astoria at no cost, and copies may be obtained at reasonable cost.
The hearing began April 6 at the Judge Guy Boyington Building in Astoria and was continued Thursday, April 8. After all audience members at Thursday’s session had been offered the opportunity to testify, Hearings Officer Peter Livingston announced that a third session tentatively scheduled for Tuesday, April 13 would be cancelled and that the final session of the hearing will take place April 16.
That session will begin at 10 a.m. at the Boyington Building, 857 Commercial St., Astoria.
Project applicant Bradwood Landing LLC/NorthernStar Energy LLC has submitted supplemental applications for eight components required under the county’s March 2008 conditional approval of the proposed liquefied natural gas terminal and associated facilities at Bradwood Landing 25 miles east of Astoria. Those supplemental applications cover the Shoreline Monitoring Plan, Dredge Material Disposal Plan, Park-and-Ride Plan, Mitigation Plan, Clifton and Bradwood Road Improvements Conditional Use Permit, Decommissioning Plan, Riparian Vegetation Restoration Plan, and Erosion and Sediment Control Plan.
A copy of the applications, staff reports and public agency comments may be reviewed at the Clatsop County website, www.co.clatsop.or.us under “Bradwood Landing Supplemental Applications.” The documents are also available for review at the Clatsop County Transportation and Development Services ? Land Use Planning Office, 800 Exchange St., Suite 100, Astoria at no cost, and copies may be obtained at reasonable cost.
Car Wash Saturday to Raise Funds for Local Theatre Director's Breast Cancer Treatments
On Saturday April 10th, from 10am to 2pm there will be a car wash held at Vince Williams Suzuki dealer, 801 SE Marlin Ave, at the corner of Marlin and 101, in Warrenton. Proceeds will go towards the fundraising drive that's underway for Meg Patterson's breast cancer treatment. Meg, a local Astoria theatre director (Shakespeare's Twelfth Night at the River Theatre), former manager of the River Theatre, and former ESL teacher and Recreation Advisor at Tongue Point JobCorps, was diagnosed with breast cancer in August 2008. Since then, she has had two surgeries, each followed by a more aggressive recurrence, and she is now at Stage IV with bone metastasis. She is planning to begin a three-week treatment at the Cancer Hope Center in Reno, Nevada on April 19th.
The car wash is being organized by Candice White, of White Glove Cleaning, who met Meg when a college friend of Meg's looked to Craigslist online to give Meg a gift of a housecleaning last Christmas. An online fundraiser for medical treatments that are not covered by insurance has been organized by Meg's friends from all around the country at
The car wash was Candice's idea, and she has recruited several high school students to wash the cars, as well as the donation of the car wash facility by Vince Williams of Warrenton Suzuki. In case of rain, the car wash will be held the following Saturday, April 17th. Donations can also be made directly to the fund online, or at Clatsop Community Bank on Commercial Street in Astoria.
The car wash is being organized by Candice White, of White Glove Cleaning, who met Meg when a college friend of Meg's looked to Craigslist online to give Meg a gift of a housecleaning last Christmas. An online fundraiser for medical treatments that are not covered by insurance has been organized by Meg's friends from all around the country at
The car wash was Candice's idea, and she has recruited several high school students to wash the cars, as well as the donation of the car wash facility by Vince Williams of Warrenton Suzuki. In case of rain, the car wash will be held the following Saturday, April 17th. Donations can also be made directly to the fund online, or at Clatsop Community Bank on Commercial Street in Astoria.
Community Preparedness Webinar Series
FEMA’s Individual & Community Preparedness Division is excited to announce the eighth webinar in the Community Preparedness Webinar Series: National 9-1-1 Education Month: Partnering with E9-1-1 Institute and Engaging Local Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs). The Community Preparedness Webinar Series provides up-to-date information on community preparedness topics and resources available to citizens, community organizations, and Citizen Corps Councils. This LIVE webinar is scheduled for Wednesday, April 14th at 2:00 EDT and will provide information about 9-1-1 education, innovation, and the importance of working closely with local PSAPs. Webinar login will begin 15 minutes prior to the start of the webinar and registration is not required. A question and answer period will follow the presentation.
Live Webinar: National 9-1-1 Education Month: Partnering with E9-1-1 Institute and Engaging Local Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) April 14th @ 2:00 PM
April is National 9-1-1 Education Month. Citizen Corps’ affiliate, E9-1-1 Institute, encourages local communities to call upon educators, parents, public officials, and telecommunications industry leaders to join a national effort to educate the public on the importance of the 9-1-1 emergency call number system and its appropriate use during April. 9-1-1 is nationally recognized as the number to call in an emergency to receive immediate help from police, fire, EMS or other appropriate emergency response entities. It is important that all levels of government and community stakeholders understand the importance of 9-1-1, how the system works today, and necessary steps to modernize the 9-1-1 system.
The E9-1-1 Institute promotes public education on 9-1-1 and emergency communications. The E9-1-1 Institute shares the mission of the Congressional E9-1-1 Caucus, which is a joint initiative to educate lawmakers, constituents, and committees about the importance of citizen-activated emergency response systems. The E9-1-1 Institute serves as an information clearinghouse for policy makers at the federal, state, and local levels, as well as for interested organizations and the general public. Gregory Rohde, Executive Director of the E9-1-1 Institute, will discuss how the 9-1-1 system connects the eyes and ears of the public to the emergency response system. Mr. Rohde will highlight how to work with the E9-1-1 Institute to promote 9-1-1 education and citizen-activated emergency response systems to lawmakers, community stakeholders, and citizens.
Mr. Rohde will be joined by Wanda Royster Gattison from the Office of Unified Communications (OUC) in Washington DC. Ms. Gattison will provide a local perspective to the imperative role 9-1-1 public safety answering points (PSAPs) play in emergency response. PSAPs are often the first to know of emergencies of all magnitudes, making 9-1-1 a significant asset to emergency responders and the public. Ms. Gattison will discuss the essential relationship which must exist between PSAPs and their communities to educate the public about 9-1-1 and proper communications and messages during a disaster.
The Community Preparedness Webinar Series features new community preparedness topics several times each month and is free to the public. Each webinar will accommodate the first 500 visitors that enter the website at the time of the webinar. In addition to airing live, the webinar will be recorded and viewable at your convenience on the Citizen Corps website (www.citizencorps.gov) usually within 24 hours after the live webcast. To join the webinar live simply go to http://www.citizencorps.gov/news/webcasts/e911month.shtm and click on the button on the upper right side of the page that says "Join the Webinar". The button will be live 10 minutes prior to the start of the webinar. Sign in as a guest.
If you need special accommodations or require additional assistance to view or listen to this webinar, please email us at citizencorps@dhs.gov no later than 5pm EST on Monday, April 12th and we will provide you with additional resources so you may participate.
More details on this webinar and upcoming webinars in the Community Preparedness Webinar Series are available at http://www.citizencorps.gov/news/webcasts.shtm.
Live Webinar: National 9-1-1 Education Month: Partnering with E9-1-1 Institute and Engaging Local Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) April 14th @ 2:00 PM
April is National 9-1-1 Education Month. Citizen Corps’ affiliate, E9-1-1 Institute, encourages local communities to call upon educators, parents, public officials, and telecommunications industry leaders to join a national effort to educate the public on the importance of the 9-1-1 emergency call number system and its appropriate use during April. 9-1-1 is nationally recognized as the number to call in an emergency to receive immediate help from police, fire, EMS or other appropriate emergency response entities. It is important that all levels of government and community stakeholders understand the importance of 9-1-1, how the system works today, and necessary steps to modernize the 9-1-1 system.
The E9-1-1 Institute promotes public education on 9-1-1 and emergency communications. The E9-1-1 Institute shares the mission of the Congressional E9-1-1 Caucus, which is a joint initiative to educate lawmakers, constituents, and committees about the importance of citizen-activated emergency response systems. The E9-1-1 Institute serves as an information clearinghouse for policy makers at the federal, state, and local levels, as well as for interested organizations and the general public. Gregory Rohde, Executive Director of the E9-1-1 Institute, will discuss how the 9-1-1 system connects the eyes and ears of the public to the emergency response system. Mr. Rohde will highlight how to work with the E9-1-1 Institute to promote 9-1-1 education and citizen-activated emergency response systems to lawmakers, community stakeholders, and citizens.
Mr. Rohde will be joined by Wanda Royster Gattison from the Office of Unified Communications (OUC) in Washington DC. Ms. Gattison will provide a local perspective to the imperative role 9-1-1 public safety answering points (PSAPs) play in emergency response. PSAPs are often the first to know of emergencies of all magnitudes, making 9-1-1 a significant asset to emergency responders and the public. Ms. Gattison will discuss the essential relationship which must exist between PSAPs and their communities to educate the public about 9-1-1 and proper communications and messages during a disaster.
The Community Preparedness Webinar Series features new community preparedness topics several times each month and is free to the public. Each webinar will accommodate the first 500 visitors that enter the website at the time of the webinar. In addition to airing live, the webinar will be recorded and viewable at your convenience on the Citizen Corps website (www.citizencorps.gov) usually within 24 hours after the live webcast. To join the webinar live simply go to http://www.citizencorps.gov/news/webcasts/e911month.shtm and click on the button on the upper right side of the page that says "Join the Webinar". The button will be live 10 minutes prior to the start of the webinar. Sign in as a guest.
If you need special accommodations or require additional assistance to view or listen to this webinar, please email us at citizencorps@dhs.gov no later than 5pm EST on Monday, April 12th and we will provide you with additional resources so you may participate.
More details on this webinar and upcoming webinars in the Community Preparedness Webinar Series are available at http://www.citizencorps.gov/news/webcasts.shtm.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Coast Guard warns to prepare for storms
SEATTLE — With heavy weather in the Pacific Northwest the Coast Guard is strongly encouraging mariners to take the necessary steps to ensure their boats are properly secured.
Strong winds and heavy surf are in the forecast for Thursday.
Boaters should follow these guidelines to ensure their safety:
Ensure you have a storm anchor. The anchor supplied with a boat is often inadequate for the storms in the Pacific Northwest. An improper or inadequate anchor can cause your boat to drift and may lead to unnecessary search and rescue calls. If your vessel becomes adrift due to the storm, report it immediately.
Check all of your anchor and mooring lines to verify they are in good condition and double the amount of mooring lines for added strength.
Small boats should be removed from the water and moved to a secure location well above tidal and flood areas and shielded from powerful winds to ensure they are not washed out to sea.
Cover your boat, heavy rains can flood boats and even cause sinking in extreme cases. Protect your boat and be sure your vessel is adequately covered when it is moored to prevent flooding. If you can't bring your boat onto shore, make sure it is securely fastened to its dock. Vessels that break free from their moorings can become a hazard to navigation, trigger unnecessary and costly search and rescue missions and endanger the lives of those who must retrieve them.
Ensure boat registration numbers are updated with correct owner information. Consider keeping owner contact information visible within the vessel. With this information, agencies responding to vessels adrift can promptly return the vessel to its owner.
Wear personal floatation devices and have one for each person aboard. History has shown the chances of survival greatly increase if an individual is wearing a personal floatation device. For more information on life jacket requirements visit:
http://www.uscgboating.org/safety/life_jacket_wear_wearing_your_life_jacket.aspx
For a detailed coastal weather forecast, click the National Weather Service link for your area:
Western Wash. -
http://www.weather.gov/alerts-beta/wa.php?x=1
Ore. Coasts -
http://www.weather.gov/alerts-beta/or.php?x=1
Strong winds and heavy surf are in the forecast for Thursday.
Boaters should follow these guidelines to ensure their safety:
Ensure you have a storm anchor. The anchor supplied with a boat is often inadequate for the storms in the Pacific Northwest. An improper or inadequate anchor can cause your boat to drift and may lead to unnecessary search and rescue calls. If your vessel becomes adrift due to the storm, report it immediately.
Check all of your anchor and mooring lines to verify they are in good condition and double the amount of mooring lines for added strength.
Small boats should be removed from the water and moved to a secure location well above tidal and flood areas and shielded from powerful winds to ensure they are not washed out to sea.
Cover your boat, heavy rains can flood boats and even cause sinking in extreme cases. Protect your boat and be sure your vessel is adequately covered when it is moored to prevent flooding. If you can't bring your boat onto shore, make sure it is securely fastened to its dock. Vessels that break free from their moorings can become a hazard to navigation, trigger unnecessary and costly search and rescue missions and endanger the lives of those who must retrieve them.
Ensure boat registration numbers are updated with correct owner information. Consider keeping owner contact information visible within the vessel. With this information, agencies responding to vessels adrift can promptly return the vessel to its owner.
Wear personal floatation devices and have one for each person aboard. History has shown the chances of survival greatly increase if an individual is wearing a personal floatation device. For more information on life jacket requirements visit:
http://www.uscgboating.org/safety/life_jacket_wear_wearing_your_life_jacket.aspx
For a detailed coastal weather forecast, click the National Weather Service link for your area:
Western Wash. -
http://www.weather.gov/alerts-beta/wa.php?x=1
Ore. Coasts -
http://www.weather.gov/alerts-beta/or.php?x=1
Clatsop, Marion, and Tillamook Counties state highway construction update: April 13-19
U.S. 101: Columbia River (Astoria – Megler) Bridge
(Oregon Coast Highway, mile post 0.00 to 0.72)
This project consists of recoating the steel on the northern side of the Columbia River Bridge along U.S. 101 north of Astoria.
The scheduled work includes coating structural steel underneath the bridge deck. A 35 mph speed limit through the construction zone will be maintained for the duration of the project. Flaggers will control single lane traffic during construction activities as required. In March, April, and May, lane delays will be allowed anytime on weekdays starting Sunday at midnight through 6:PM on Friday. Expect delays of up to 20 minutes during the daytime and drive through the area with caution. The project is scheduled to be completed in November 2011.
I-5: Tongue & Groove Barrier Replacement Project
(Pacific Highway, mile post 244.43 to 249.43)
This project consists of replacing concrete barrier just south of Salem between M.P. 244.43 and 249.43 on I-5 (Pacific Highway).
The scheduled work includes removal and replacement of concrete barrier along the roadway shoulder on I-5 in the southbound direction north of the Jefferson Hwy 99E SE Interchange. In addition, fencing will be installed on top of the barrier along the northbound shoulder on I-5. Expect nightly lane closures on the Pacific Highway and drive with caution. Flaggers will control single lane traffic during construction activities as required along the Enchanted Way frontage road. The project is scheduled to be completed in May 2010.
Region 2 Fish Passage (Bergsvik Creek)
(Necanicum Highway, mile post 2.17 to 2.28)
This project consists of replacing an arch pipe under the roadway with a concrete box culvert on OR53 (Necanicum Highway) two miles south of the junction between OR53 and US26 (Sunset Highway).
No work is currently scheduled for this week. The project is scheduled to be completed in November 2010.
OR53: Necanicum River Bridge
(Necanicum Highway, mile post 0.06 to 0.18)
This project consists of replacing a bridge on OR53 (Necanicum Highway) just south of the junction between OR53 and US26 (Sunset Highway).
The scheduled work includes mobilization of the Contractor’s equipment to the project site and clearing of brush and timber from the work area. Flaggers will control single lane traffic during construction activities as required. The project is scheduled to be completed in December 2010.
US101: 12th St. (Tillamook) – Farmer Creek Road Section
(Oregon Coast Highway, mile posts 66.23 to 76.00 and 80.61 to 82.82)
This project consists of rebuilding and repaving the roadway on U.S. 101 in the area between the south end of Tillamook and Farmer Creek Rd.
The scheduled work includes installation of a new concrete deck overlay on the Trask River Bridge at mile post 67.98. Flaggers will control single lane traffic during construction activities as required. Expect delays of up to 20 minutes and drive through the area with caution. The project is scheduled to be completed in September 2010.
(Oregon Coast Highway, mile post 0.00 to 0.72)
This project consists of recoating the steel on the northern side of the Columbia River Bridge along U.S. 101 north of Astoria.
The scheduled work includes coating structural steel underneath the bridge deck. A 35 mph speed limit through the construction zone will be maintained for the duration of the project. Flaggers will control single lane traffic during construction activities as required. In March, April, and May, lane delays will be allowed anytime on weekdays starting Sunday at midnight through 6:PM on Friday. Expect delays of up to 20 minutes during the daytime and drive through the area with caution. The project is scheduled to be completed in November 2011.
I-5: Tongue & Groove Barrier Replacement Project
(Pacific Highway, mile post 244.43 to 249.43)
This project consists of replacing concrete barrier just south of Salem between M.P. 244.43 and 249.43 on I-5 (Pacific Highway).
The scheduled work includes removal and replacement of concrete barrier along the roadway shoulder on I-5 in the southbound direction north of the Jefferson Hwy 99E SE Interchange. In addition, fencing will be installed on top of the barrier along the northbound shoulder on I-5. Expect nightly lane closures on the Pacific Highway and drive with caution. Flaggers will control single lane traffic during construction activities as required along the Enchanted Way frontage road. The project is scheduled to be completed in May 2010.
Region 2 Fish Passage (Bergsvik Creek)
(Necanicum Highway, mile post 2.17 to 2.28)
This project consists of replacing an arch pipe under the roadway with a concrete box culvert on OR53 (Necanicum Highway) two miles south of the junction between OR53 and US26 (Sunset Highway).
No work is currently scheduled for this week. The project is scheduled to be completed in November 2010.
OR53: Necanicum River Bridge
(Necanicum Highway, mile post 0.06 to 0.18)
This project consists of replacing a bridge on OR53 (Necanicum Highway) just south of the junction between OR53 and US26 (Sunset Highway).
The scheduled work includes mobilization of the Contractor’s equipment to the project site and clearing of brush and timber from the work area. Flaggers will control single lane traffic during construction activities as required. The project is scheduled to be completed in December 2010.
US101: 12th St. (Tillamook) – Farmer Creek Road Section
(Oregon Coast Highway, mile posts 66.23 to 76.00 and 80.61 to 82.82)
This project consists of rebuilding and repaving the roadway on U.S. 101 in the area between the south end of Tillamook and Farmer Creek Rd.
The scheduled work includes installation of a new concrete deck overlay on the Trask River Bridge at mile post 67.98. Flaggers will control single lane traffic during construction activities as required. Expect delays of up to 20 minutes and drive through the area with caution. The project is scheduled to be completed in September 2010.
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