The federal Drug Enforcement Administration is setting up locations around the country for people to drop off their drugs, no questions asked, on Saturday, April 30th. In our area, agencies and locations include:
THE WARRENTON POLICE DEPARTMENT:
LUM'S AUTO CENTER 1605 SE ENSIGN LANE WARRENTON OR
COLUMBIA COUNTY SHERIFF'S & CLATSKANIE PD CLATSKANIE POLICE DEPARTMENT:
195 SOUTHEAST 2ND STREET CLATSKANIE OR,
COLUMBIA COUNTY SHERIFF'S & VERNONIA PD VERNONIA POLICE DEPARTMENT 1001 BRIDGE STREET VERNONIA OR.
LONG BEACH PD / PACIFIC CO. SHERIFF'S:
NASELLE TIMBERLAND LIBRARY, 10AM - 1PM 4 PARPALA ROAD NASELLE WA
ALSO: OCEAN BEACH HOSPITAL
2PM - 5PM 174 FIRST AVENUE NORTH ILWACO WA.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
HEALTH ADVISORY ISSUED FOR WATER CONTACT AT CANNON BEACH
A public health advisory was issued Wednesday due to higher-than-normal levels of bacteria in ocean waters at Cannon Beach in Clatsop County. The elevated bacteria level was found at the mouth of Ecola Creek.
Increased pathogen and fecal bacteria levels in ocean waters can come from both shore and inland sources such as storm water runoff and animal waste from birds such as sea gulls and even pets.
Water samples indicate higher-than-normal levels of fecal bacteria, which can result in gastroenteritis, skin rashes and other illnesses. Direct contact with the water should be avoided until the advisories are lifted, especially for children and the elderly, who may be more vulnerable to waterborne bacteria.
While these advisories are in effect at Cannon Beach, visitors should avoid wading in nearby creeks or in discolored water and stay clear of water runoff flowing into the ocean. Even if there is no advisory in effect, officials recommend avoiding swimming in the ocean for 48 hours after a rainstorm.
State officials advise that the status of water contact advisories at beaches is subject to change. For the most recent information on advisories, please visit www.healthoregon.org/beach or call 1-877-290-6767.
Although state officials discourage water contact, they continue to encourage other recreational activities such as walking, playing on the beach, flying kites, and picnicking on these beaches because they pose no health risk even during an advisory. Neighboring beaches are not affected by this advisory.
For more information contact the Beach Monitoring Program at 971-673-0400 or www.healthoregon.org/beach.
Increased pathogen and fecal bacteria levels in ocean waters can come from both shore and inland sources such as storm water runoff and animal waste from birds such as sea gulls and even pets.
Water samples indicate higher-than-normal levels of fecal bacteria, which can result in gastroenteritis, skin rashes and other illnesses. Direct contact with the water should be avoided until the advisories are lifted, especially for children and the elderly, who may be more vulnerable to waterborne bacteria.
While these advisories are in effect at Cannon Beach, visitors should avoid wading in nearby creeks or in discolored water and stay clear of water runoff flowing into the ocean. Even if there is no advisory in effect, officials recommend avoiding swimming in the ocean for 48 hours after a rainstorm.
State officials advise that the status of water contact advisories at beaches is subject to change. For the most recent information on advisories, please visit www.healthoregon.org/beach or call 1-877-290-6767.
Although state officials discourage water contact, they continue to encourage other recreational activities such as walking, playing on the beach, flying kites, and picnicking on these beaches because they pose no health risk even during an advisory. Neighboring beaches are not affected by this advisory.
For more information contact the Beach Monitoring Program at 971-673-0400 or www.healthoregon.org/beach.
Friday, April 22, 2011
PROPOSED 2011-12 CLATSOP COUNTY BUDGET MAINTAINS SERVICES
Clatsop County’s proposed budget for the 2011-12 fiscal year maintains almost all current programs and services.
The county Budget Committee will review the budget at a public meeting Tuesday, May 3 beginning at 9 a.m. at the Judge Guy Boyington Building, 857 Commercial St., Astoria.
The entire document can be viewed online at www.co.clatsop.or.us. Copies are also available to view at local libraries and the County Manager’s Office, 800 Exchange St., Suite 410.
The proposed budget totals $59,470,500, 10.9 percent more than the adopted 2010-11 budget. Most of the increase represents capital projects including the extension of Ensign Lane at the North Coast Business Park. The General Fund, which covers basic functions such as public safety, planning and tax-collection, is proposed to increase 3.4 percent, to $18,755,900.
Property tax revenue is projected to increase by 2.6 percent to $8,137,700, and funding from the Clatsop State Forest, which was depressed for the past two years, is expected to rebound modestly to about $2.6 million.
But the State of Oregon’s continuing budget woes may impact a number of local programs that rely on state funding.
“Preparation of the annual budget would not be possible without the dedication and commitment of the county department heads and staff,” County Manager Duane Cole said in the introductory budget message. “I am very appreciative of the professional approach to problem solving and the atmosphere of teamwork that was evident during this process.”
The budget reflects the closure of the Community Corrections Transition Center and lay-off of its staff. The residential facility, designed as an alternative sanction for local offenders, was closed April 1 on the recommendation of a consultant who reported that the number of clients served was declining and that the center’s operations were financially unsustainable.
Money saved from the center’s closure, approximately $700,000 a year in state revenue, will be redirected to other corrections programs and services.
The Ensign Road project, the largest capital outlay planned for the upcoming year, will be funded not from tax dollars but from the Industrial Development Revolving Fund, which holds the proceeds from the $8.6 million sale of commercial land at the business park.
The budget also includes the eighth payment for the 10-year bond secured in 2003 to pay the county’s unfunded Public Employee Retirement System (PERS) obligation. The 2011-12 Fiscal Year payment of $720,300 will come out of timber revenue ? the final two years’ payments in 2012-13 and 2013-14 will be covered by a reserve account that was established to cover the bond payments in the event other resources fell short.
The 10-year bond will save the county more than $7 million versus the standard 25-year PERS debt repayment schedule.
The proposed budget recommends a minor departure from a budget policy of the board of commissioners that prevents the use of county resources to replace or “back-fill” reductions in other funding sources. The document recommends a $7,500 transfer to the Sheriff’s Office Marine Patrol program, which has suffered from a decline in state funding and would not be able to provide the same services without the funding.
Cole’s budget message says the county will be challenged to balance the need to protect county resources in the face of other likely state budget cuts, which could impact many local program, especially social services. The 2011-12 budget for contracted mental health services is $531,300, down from $573,900 in the current year, and proposed amount for drug and alcohol treatment, which totaled $200,900 this year, is $150,900.
The county Budget Committee will review the budget at a public meeting Tuesday, May 3 beginning at 9 a.m. at the Judge Guy Boyington Building, 857 Commercial St., Astoria.
The entire document can be viewed online at www.co.clatsop.or.us. Copies are also available to view at local libraries and the County Manager’s Office, 800 Exchange St., Suite 410.
The proposed budget totals $59,470,500, 10.9 percent more than the adopted 2010-11 budget. Most of the increase represents capital projects including the extension of Ensign Lane at the North Coast Business Park. The General Fund, which covers basic functions such as public safety, planning and tax-collection, is proposed to increase 3.4 percent, to $18,755,900.
Property tax revenue is projected to increase by 2.6 percent to $8,137,700, and funding from the Clatsop State Forest, which was depressed for the past two years, is expected to rebound modestly to about $2.6 million.
But the State of Oregon’s continuing budget woes may impact a number of local programs that rely on state funding.
“Preparation of the annual budget would not be possible without the dedication and commitment of the county department heads and staff,” County Manager Duane Cole said in the introductory budget message. “I am very appreciative of the professional approach to problem solving and the atmosphere of teamwork that was evident during this process.”
The budget reflects the closure of the Community Corrections Transition Center and lay-off of its staff. The residential facility, designed as an alternative sanction for local offenders, was closed April 1 on the recommendation of a consultant who reported that the number of clients served was declining and that the center’s operations were financially unsustainable.
Money saved from the center’s closure, approximately $700,000 a year in state revenue, will be redirected to other corrections programs and services.
The Ensign Road project, the largest capital outlay planned for the upcoming year, will be funded not from tax dollars but from the Industrial Development Revolving Fund, which holds the proceeds from the $8.6 million sale of commercial land at the business park.
The budget also includes the eighth payment for the 10-year bond secured in 2003 to pay the county’s unfunded Public Employee Retirement System (PERS) obligation. The 2011-12 Fiscal Year payment of $720,300 will come out of timber revenue ? the final two years’ payments in 2012-13 and 2013-14 will be covered by a reserve account that was established to cover the bond payments in the event other resources fell short.
The 10-year bond will save the county more than $7 million versus the standard 25-year PERS debt repayment schedule.
The proposed budget recommends a minor departure from a budget policy of the board of commissioners that prevents the use of county resources to replace or “back-fill” reductions in other funding sources. The document recommends a $7,500 transfer to the Sheriff’s Office Marine Patrol program, which has suffered from a decline in state funding and would not be able to provide the same services without the funding.
Cole’s budget message says the county will be challenged to balance the need to protect county resources in the face of other likely state budget cuts, which could impact many local program, especially social services. The 2011-12 budget for contracted mental health services is $531,300, down from $573,900 in the current year, and proposed amount for drug and alcohol treatment, which totaled $200,900 this year, is $150,900.
OREGON SENATE COMMITTEE VOTES TO MOVE GILLNET RESTRICTIONS FORWARD
The Oregon Senate Committee on Environment and Natural Resources has voted to pass out of committee a bill to restrict commercial gillnetting in the Columbia River.
The Committee voted 3-2 to forward Senate Bill 736, commonly known as SAFE for Salmon, to the Senate Rules Committee.
SB 736 is designed to optimize Columbia River salmon harvest between sport and commercial interests. The bill calls for moving the non-tribal commercial gillnet fleet in the lower-Columbia River below Bonneville Dam into off-channel Select Area Fisheries Enhancement (SAFE) areas. These areas are currently in use and account for the majority of the commercial catch.
SAFE for Salmon would change fish management of the Columbia River in order to reduce bycatch mortality on wild fish, increase sportfishing catch, and benefit Oregon's economy by providing a more consistent sportfishing season and more jobs, while at the same time providing tens of thousands of fish annually to the commercial fishery and general public.
Senators Jackie Dingfelder, Mark Hass and Floyd Prozanski voted in favor of the measure, while Senators Alan Olsen and Chuck Thomsen voted against it.
"We have a lot of Republican support for SB 736," said Association of Northwest Steelheaders Government Affairs Director Norm Ritchie. "Many of the sponsors of the bill are Republicans, but unfortunately today's vote was split along party lines. Once it hits the Senate floor, the vote will show that this measure has bi-partisan support because it will enhance sportfishing jobs while protecting commercial fishing jobs and our wild salmon runs."
The Committee voted in favor (3-2) of an amendment to the bill that would only end mainstem Columbia gillnet fishing during the spring Chinook fishery, March-May. All other seasons, including summer and fall Chinook, would still be open to the gillnetting in the mainstem. The amendment also called on a moratorium for new gillnetting permits and permit renewals if the permits were not used in the last 12 months.
SB 736 is supported by the Association of Northwest Steelheaders, Northwest Sportfishing Industry Association, Trout Unlimited, Northwest Guides and Anglers Association, Coastal Conservation Association, and Oregon Wild, among others. The measure is also endorsed by the Oregon Conservation Network and Gov. Kitzhaber.
"Anglers often have as many ideas on how fish should be managed as they do gear types, but on this issue, we are united." said Russell Bassett, Northwest Steelheaders executive director. "It's refreshing to see the sportfishing and conservation communities work together and get some positive movement on this issue."
The Committee voted 3-2 to forward Senate Bill 736, commonly known as SAFE for Salmon, to the Senate Rules Committee.
SB 736 is designed to optimize Columbia River salmon harvest between sport and commercial interests. The bill calls for moving the non-tribal commercial gillnet fleet in the lower-Columbia River below Bonneville Dam into off-channel Select Area Fisheries Enhancement (SAFE) areas. These areas are currently in use and account for the majority of the commercial catch.
SAFE for Salmon would change fish management of the Columbia River in order to reduce bycatch mortality on wild fish, increase sportfishing catch, and benefit Oregon's economy by providing a more consistent sportfishing season and more jobs, while at the same time providing tens of thousands of fish annually to the commercial fishery and general public.
Senators Jackie Dingfelder, Mark Hass and Floyd Prozanski voted in favor of the measure, while Senators Alan Olsen and Chuck Thomsen voted against it.
"We have a lot of Republican support for SB 736," said Association of Northwest Steelheaders Government Affairs Director Norm Ritchie. "Many of the sponsors of the bill are Republicans, but unfortunately today's vote was split along party lines. Once it hits the Senate floor, the vote will show that this measure has bi-partisan support because it will enhance sportfishing jobs while protecting commercial fishing jobs and our wild salmon runs."
The Committee voted in favor (3-2) of an amendment to the bill that would only end mainstem Columbia gillnet fishing during the spring Chinook fishery, March-May. All other seasons, including summer and fall Chinook, would still be open to the gillnetting in the mainstem. The amendment also called on a moratorium for new gillnetting permits and permit renewals if the permits were not used in the last 12 months.
SB 736 is supported by the Association of Northwest Steelheaders, Northwest Sportfishing Industry Association, Trout Unlimited, Northwest Guides and Anglers Association, Coastal Conservation Association, and Oregon Wild, among others. The measure is also endorsed by the Oregon Conservation Network and Gov. Kitzhaber.
"Anglers often have as many ideas on how fish should be managed as they do gear types, but on this issue, we are united." said Russell Bassett, Northwest Steelheaders executive director. "It's refreshing to see the sportfishing and conservation communities work together and get some positive movement on this issue."
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
LEGAL REVIEW FINDS CLATSOP COUNTY’S COMMITTEE ORDINANCE IS VALID
Clatsop County Ordinance 2001-10, which sets out procedures for appointment and removal of members of county boards and commissions, is a valid ordinance and provided full authority for the March 23 decision of the Clatsop County Board of Commissioners to vacate all seven positions on the Clatsop County Planning Commission, according to the county’s legal counsel.
The legal review came in response to statements that the county’s ordinance was never filed with the Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development under a state statute that requires local governments to present proposed changes to their land-use rules to DLCD for review.
In a memo to County Manager Duane Cole, County Counsel Blair Henningsgaard stated that the statute, ORS 197.610, requires DLCD review for any proposed amendments to a local government’s comprehensive land-use plan or land-use regulation, or any proposed new land-use regulation.
According to Henningsgaard, Ordinance 01-10 deals broadly with the board of commissioners’ authority in regards to various county boards and is not considered a comprehensive plan amendment or new regulation, and for that reason did not require review by DLCD.
State law requires geographic and professional diversity on planning commissions, but otherwise gives local governments broad discretion in establishing their own rules for appointment and removal of members, Henningsgaard said.
Ordinance 01-10, adopted by the board of commissioners July 24, 2002, states that “all members of any board, commission or committee of the County shall be appointed by and serve at the pleasure of the Board of Commissioners (Sect. 3-B);” and “the Board may remove any appointed board, commission or committee member from his or her appointment by affirmative vote of at least three commissioners (Sect. 3-D).”
On March 23 the board voted to vacate the planning commission’s seven positions and seek applications from both current members and new applicants. The board plans to make the appointments by June 30.
The county is currently accepting applications. To apply, obtain an application form and return it to the Clatsop County Manager’s Office at 800 Exchange St., Suite 410, Astoria OR 97103, (503) 325-1000. Forms are available from the County Manager’s Office or can be downloaded from the county website at “Documents” under “County Manager.”
The deadline to apply is May 13.
To see Ordinance 01-10 and the bylaws governing the planning commission, go to “Land Use Planning” at the county website and click on “Planning Commission.”
The legal review came in response to statements that the county’s ordinance was never filed with the Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development under a state statute that requires local governments to present proposed changes to their land-use rules to DLCD for review.
In a memo to County Manager Duane Cole, County Counsel Blair Henningsgaard stated that the statute, ORS 197.610, requires DLCD review for any proposed amendments to a local government’s comprehensive land-use plan or land-use regulation, or any proposed new land-use regulation.
According to Henningsgaard, Ordinance 01-10 deals broadly with the board of commissioners’ authority in regards to various county boards and is not considered a comprehensive plan amendment or new regulation, and for that reason did not require review by DLCD.
State law requires geographic and professional diversity on planning commissions, but otherwise gives local governments broad discretion in establishing their own rules for appointment and removal of members, Henningsgaard said.
Ordinance 01-10, adopted by the board of commissioners July 24, 2002, states that “all members of any board, commission or committee of the County shall be appointed by and serve at the pleasure of the Board of Commissioners (Sect. 3-B);” and “the Board may remove any appointed board, commission or committee member from his or her appointment by affirmative vote of at least three commissioners (Sect. 3-D).”
On March 23 the board voted to vacate the planning commission’s seven positions and seek applications from both current members and new applicants. The board plans to make the appointments by June 30.
The county is currently accepting applications. To apply, obtain an application form and return it to the Clatsop County Manager’s Office at 800 Exchange St., Suite 410, Astoria OR 97103, (503) 325-1000. Forms are available from the County Manager’s Office or can be downloaded from the county website at “Documents” under “County Manager.”
The deadline to apply is May 13.
To see Ordinance 01-10 and the bylaws governing the planning commission, go to “Land Use Planning” at the county website and click on “Planning Commission.”
Monday, April 18, 2011
USCG AUXILIARY TO PERFORM COURTESY VESSEL SAFETY CHECKS IN ASTORIA
Members of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, Buoy 10 Flotilla 64 will conduct free Courtesy
Vessel Safety Examinations beginning at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 26, 2011 at the John Day County
Park Boat Ramp, just east of Astoria and the East End Mooring Basin in Astoria.
The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Vessel Examiners are usually boat owners and experienced
boaters, who are certified and trained to know the latest boating regulations and safety equipment needs.
Examiners have been trained to look for some of the more common problems, which might occur with
safety equipment. Some of the equipment checked during the examination includes fire extinguishers,
lifejackets, navigation lights, visual distress signals and overall vessel condition.
A ‘Seal of Safety’ for 2011 will be affixed to the vessel, if it is found to be safe. If an equipment
item is missing or outdated, the examiner will give the boat owner suggestions. Research has shown that
properly equipped boats help reduce boating accidents.
Courtesy Vessel Safety Checks are scheduled regularly throughout the recreational boating season
at various ramps and marinas. Boaters can also make appointments with Vessel Examiners to schedule
Courtesy Safety checks at other locations, such as homes and moorage sites.
Boaters should take advantage of this free public service. For more information about these
Vessel Safety Checks or scheduling an appointment, contact Roy Hackett at newthings@earthlink.net or call
(503) 481-6648. For more information about the USCG Auxiliary contact www.cgaux.org.
Vessel Safety Examinations beginning at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 26, 2011 at the John Day County
Park Boat Ramp, just east of Astoria and the East End Mooring Basin in Astoria.
The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Vessel Examiners are usually boat owners and experienced
boaters, who are certified and trained to know the latest boating regulations and safety equipment needs.
Examiners have been trained to look for some of the more common problems, which might occur with
safety equipment. Some of the equipment checked during the examination includes fire extinguishers,
lifejackets, navigation lights, visual distress signals and overall vessel condition.
A ‘Seal of Safety’ for 2011 will be affixed to the vessel, if it is found to be safe. If an equipment
item is missing or outdated, the examiner will give the boat owner suggestions. Research has shown that
properly equipped boats help reduce boating accidents.
Courtesy Vessel Safety Checks are scheduled regularly throughout the recreational boating season
at various ramps and marinas. Boaters can also make appointments with Vessel Examiners to schedule
Courtesy Safety checks at other locations, such as homes and moorage sites.
Boaters should take advantage of this free public service. For more information about these
Vessel Safety Checks or scheduling an appointment, contact Roy Hackett at newthings@earthlink.net or call
(503) 481-6648. For more information about the USCG Auxiliary contact www.cgaux.org.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
REDISTRICTING COMMITTEE STILL SEEKING APPLICANTS IN CLATSOP COUNTY
Clatsop County continues to seek applicants for a citizen panel charged with drawing new boundaries for county commissioner districts based on the 2010 U.S. Census data.
The process, conducted every 10 years following the Census, ensures that all five districts represented by the county commissioners have roughly equal population by re-drawing the boundaries to take into account any shifts in population within the county.
The committee is made up of one citizen representative from each commissioner district, plus representatives from local cities. The county board of commissioners has made three appointments but is still seeking representatives from Commissioner Districts 2 and 4.
District 2 covers the Clatsop Plains region including Gearhart and portions of Seaside; District 4 covers the northeastern part of the county including Knappa/Svensen, Brownsmead, Westport and portions of Astoria.
The committee will use the Census data to make any necessary changes in the boundaries in conformance with state requirements that districts be contiguous, of equal population, utilize existing geographical or political boundaries, not divide communities of common interest, and be connected by transportation links.
To apply, obtain an application form and return it to the Clatsop County Manager’s Office at 800 Exchange St., Suite 410, Astoria OR 97103, (503) 325-1000. Forms are available from the County Manager’s Office or can be downloaded from the county website at “Documents” under “County Manager.”
Forms must be submitted by Tuesday, April 26. The board of commissioners will make the selections.
The process, conducted every 10 years following the Census, ensures that all five districts represented by the county commissioners have roughly equal population by re-drawing the boundaries to take into account any shifts in population within the county.
The committee is made up of one citizen representative from each commissioner district, plus representatives from local cities. The county board of commissioners has made three appointments but is still seeking representatives from Commissioner Districts 2 and 4.
District 2 covers the Clatsop Plains region including Gearhart and portions of Seaside; District 4 covers the northeastern part of the county including Knappa/Svensen, Brownsmead, Westport and portions of Astoria.
The committee will use the Census data to make any necessary changes in the boundaries in conformance with state requirements that districts be contiguous, of equal population, utilize existing geographical or political boundaries, not divide communities of common interest, and be connected by transportation links.
To apply, obtain an application form and return it to the Clatsop County Manager’s Office at 800 Exchange St., Suite 410, Astoria OR 97103, (503) 325-1000. Forms are available from the County Manager’s Office or can be downloaded from the county website at “Documents” under “County Manager.”
Forms must be submitted by Tuesday, April 26. The board of commissioners will make the selections.
CLATSOP COUNTY COMMISSIONERS HONOR LOCAL VOLUNTEERS
During Wednesday's meeting, the The Clatsop County Board of Commissioners honored the county’s top volunteers for 2010 and expressed thanks to the hundreds of citizens who donate their time to the community.
Reserve Deputy Tom Tussing was honored as Individual Volunteer of the Year; Bill and Dorothy Davidson received the Outstanding Individuals within a Group award; and the Outstanding Volunteer Group honor went to the Caring Adults Developing Youth (CADY) mentoring program.
The board also approved a proclamation recognizing April 10-16 as Volunteer Week.
Tussing volunteers with the Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office Reserve Program, whose members assist regular duty personnel on patrol duties, perform civil paper service, work security for special events and help with other duties.
Ready to respond “at a moment’s notice,” Tussing volunteers an average of 60 hours a month.
“Tussing’s interest in the program has been exemplary,” said program coordinator Sgt. Mark Whisler, who nominated Tussing for the award. “He has been summoned in for various tasks including security at the Astoria waterfront fire, transport of prisoners to other facilities in the state, and volunteering to work patrol when we are short-handed.”
Bill and Dorothy Davidson are the volunteer coordinators of the Community Emergency Response Team program. The CERT teams are made up of volunteer members who provide valuable assistance during local disasters and other emergencies.
“Bill and Dorothy have given untold hours of their time to promote CERT and to train volunteers,” Clatsop County Emergency Services Coordinator Gene Strong said. “They have also been willing to respond at any time and help in the time of need.”
The CADY mentoring program, coordinated by the Clatsop County Juvenile Department, matches adult volunteers with local youth aged 10 to 17. In regular weekly meetings the mentors share their life experiences and encourage the youth to reach their dreams and full potential. The adults help keep the students in school by assisting with homework, improving academic skills and helping the youth realize the value of education.
Those honored Wednesday were among 382 volunteers who donated a total of 21, 636 hours of service with the county in 2010. That service has an estimated monetary value of $451,119.
For more information on the above volunteer programs:
· Reserve Deputy Program ? Sgt. Mark Whisler, (503) 325-8635
· Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) ? Gene Strong, (503) 325-1000
· Caring Adults Developing Youth (CADY) ? Laura Parker, (503) 325-8601
Reserve Deputy Tom Tussing was honored as Individual Volunteer of the Year; Bill and Dorothy Davidson received the Outstanding Individuals within a Group award; and the Outstanding Volunteer Group honor went to the Caring Adults Developing Youth (CADY) mentoring program.
The board also approved a proclamation recognizing April 10-16 as Volunteer Week.
Tussing volunteers with the Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office Reserve Program, whose members assist regular duty personnel on patrol duties, perform civil paper service, work security for special events and help with other duties.
Ready to respond “at a moment’s notice,” Tussing volunteers an average of 60 hours a month.
“Tussing’s interest in the program has been exemplary,” said program coordinator Sgt. Mark Whisler, who nominated Tussing for the award. “He has been summoned in for various tasks including security at the Astoria waterfront fire, transport of prisoners to other facilities in the state, and volunteering to work patrol when we are short-handed.”
Bill and Dorothy Davidson are the volunteer coordinators of the Community Emergency Response Team program. The CERT teams are made up of volunteer members who provide valuable assistance during local disasters and other emergencies.
“Bill and Dorothy have given untold hours of their time to promote CERT and to train volunteers,” Clatsop County Emergency Services Coordinator Gene Strong said. “They have also been willing to respond at any time and help in the time of need.”
The CADY mentoring program, coordinated by the Clatsop County Juvenile Department, matches adult volunteers with local youth aged 10 to 17. In regular weekly meetings the mentors share their life experiences and encourage the youth to reach their dreams and full potential. The adults help keep the students in school by assisting with homework, improving academic skills and helping the youth realize the value of education.
Those honored Wednesday were among 382 volunteers who donated a total of 21, 636 hours of service with the county in 2010. That service has an estimated monetary value of $451,119.
For more information on the above volunteer programs:
· Reserve Deputy Program ? Sgt. Mark Whisler, (503) 325-8635
· Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) ? Gene Strong, (503) 325-1000
· Caring Adults Developing Youth (CADY) ? Laura Parker, (503) 325-8601
ODFW seeks input on coastal salmon seasons
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife will host three public meetings in coastal communities later this month to solicit input on regulations for the 2011 fall chinook salmon and coho seasons in Oregon bays and coastal rivers.
The meetings are scheduled for April 26-28 in North Bend, Newport and Tillamook, and discussions will include sport and commercial chinook seasons in terminal ocean areas off Tillamook, Elk, and Chetco rivers, sport chinook fisheries in all coastal rivers, and sport wild coho fisheries in select rivers and lakes.
Fishery managers are looking at mostly improved fishing prospects in 2011, thanks to continued good forecasts of chinook and coho salmon in many coastal watersheds.
“Coastwide, chinook forecasts are up about 20 percent over last year primarily due to strong returns on the south coast and, to a lesser extent, on the mid coast,” said Ron Boyce, ODFW Ocean Salmon Columbia River Program manager. “However, chinook forecasts for north coast basins are still uncertain.”
“Chinook regulations overall should be less constrained than last year,” he added, “but anglers can expect some bag limit restrictions and area closures in north coast streams although fewer than last year.”
ODFW will also be seeking input on proposed wild coho fisheries in 10 rivers (Nehalem, Tillamook, Nestucca, Siletz, Yaquina, Alsea, Siuslaw, Umpqua, Coos, and Coquille) and Tenmile Lakes. This will be the third year that wild coho fisheries have been considered in select rivers that meet criteria under a federal Fishery Management and Evaluation Plan as well as Pacific Fishery Management Council guidelines. The number of rivers was increased from three last year to ten this year in response to the large number of adults spawning in 2010 (over 265,000) and another high return forecasted for this year (nearly 250,000).
“These will be very conservative fisheries that meet all conservation guidelines but nonetheless provide significant opportunity for recreational fishing,” Boyce said. “I think the huge coho returns we’ve seen the last few years are in response to favorable ocean conditions but also can be attributed to years of hard work to restore coho salmon populations along the Oregon coast.”
At the upcoming public meetings ODFW staff will present information on the run forecasts and discuss options for the chinook and coho seasons.
ODFW staff will use public feedback from these meetings to develop recommendations for the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission to consider at its June 3 meeting in Salem.
All meetings are from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. The meeting dates, locations, and ODFW contacts are as follows:
North Bend
April 26
North Bend Public Library, 1800 Sherman Avenue, North Bend
Contact: Mike Gray, ODFW, (541) 888-5515
Newport
April 27
Hallmark Resort Newport, 744 Elizabeth, Newport
Contact: Bob Buckman, ODFW, (541) 265-8306 X224
Tillamook
April 28
Oregon Dept. of Forestry, 5005 Third St., Tillamook
Contact: Chris Knutsen, ODFW, (503) 842-2741
The meetings are scheduled for April 26-28 in North Bend, Newport and Tillamook, and discussions will include sport and commercial chinook seasons in terminal ocean areas off Tillamook, Elk, and Chetco rivers, sport chinook fisheries in all coastal rivers, and sport wild coho fisheries in select rivers and lakes.
Fishery managers are looking at mostly improved fishing prospects in 2011, thanks to continued good forecasts of chinook and coho salmon in many coastal watersheds.
“Coastwide, chinook forecasts are up about 20 percent over last year primarily due to strong returns on the south coast and, to a lesser extent, on the mid coast,” said Ron Boyce, ODFW Ocean Salmon Columbia River Program manager. “However, chinook forecasts for north coast basins are still uncertain.”
“Chinook regulations overall should be less constrained than last year,” he added, “but anglers can expect some bag limit restrictions and area closures in north coast streams although fewer than last year.”
ODFW will also be seeking input on proposed wild coho fisheries in 10 rivers (Nehalem, Tillamook, Nestucca, Siletz, Yaquina, Alsea, Siuslaw, Umpqua, Coos, and Coquille) and Tenmile Lakes. This will be the third year that wild coho fisheries have been considered in select rivers that meet criteria under a federal Fishery Management and Evaluation Plan as well as Pacific Fishery Management Council guidelines. The number of rivers was increased from three last year to ten this year in response to the large number of adults spawning in 2010 (over 265,000) and another high return forecasted for this year (nearly 250,000).
“These will be very conservative fisheries that meet all conservation guidelines but nonetheless provide significant opportunity for recreational fishing,” Boyce said. “I think the huge coho returns we’ve seen the last few years are in response to favorable ocean conditions but also can be attributed to years of hard work to restore coho salmon populations along the Oregon coast.”
At the upcoming public meetings ODFW staff will present information on the run forecasts and discuss options for the chinook and coho seasons.
ODFW staff will use public feedback from these meetings to develop recommendations for the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission to consider at its June 3 meeting in Salem.
All meetings are from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. The meeting dates, locations, and ODFW contacts are as follows:
North Bend
April 26
North Bend Public Library, 1800 Sherman Avenue, North Bend
Contact: Mike Gray, ODFW, (541) 888-5515
Newport
April 27
Hallmark Resort Newport, 744 Elizabeth, Newport
Contact: Bob Buckman, ODFW, (541) 265-8306 X224
Tillamook
April 28
Oregon Dept. of Forestry, 5005 Third St., Tillamook
Contact: Chris Knutsen, ODFW, (503) 842-2741
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
HEALTH ADVISORY ISSUED FOR WATER CONTACT AT SEASIDE BEACH
A public health advisory was issued Wednesday due to higher-than-normal levels of bacteria in ocean waters at Seaside Beach in Clatsop County.
Increased pathogen and fecal bacteria levels in ocean waters can come from both shore and inland sources such as storm water runoff , animal waste from seabirds, pets and livestock, sewer overflows and failing septic systems.
Water samples indicate higher-than-normal levels of fecal bacteria, which can result in gastroenteritis, skin rashes and other illnesses. Direct contact with the water should be avoided until the advisory is lifted, especially for children and the elderly, who may be more vulnerable to waterborne bacteria.
While this advisory is in effect at Seaside Beach, visitors should avoid wading in nearby creeks or in discolored water and stay clear of water runoff flowing into the ocean. Even if there is no advisory in effect, officials recommend avoiding swimming in the ocean within 48 hours after a rainstorm.
State officials advise that the status of water contact advisories at beaches is subject to change. For the most recent information on advisories, please visit www.healthoregon.org/beach or call 1-877-290-6767.
Although state officials discourage water contact, they continue to encourage other recreational activities such as walking, playing on the beach, flying kites, and picnicking on these beaches because they pose no health risk even during an advisory. Neighboring beaches are not affected by this advisory.
Since 2003 state 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. Oregon state organizations participating in this program are Oregon Public Health, Oregon Department of Environmental Quality and Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. For more information contact the Beach Monitoring Program at 971-673-0400 or www.healthoregon.org/beach.
Increased pathogen and fecal bacteria levels in ocean waters can come from both shore and inland sources such as storm water runoff , animal waste from seabirds, pets and livestock, sewer overflows and failing septic systems.
Water samples indicate higher-than-normal levels of fecal bacteria, which can result in gastroenteritis, skin rashes and other illnesses. Direct contact with the water should be avoided until the advisory is lifted, especially for children and the elderly, who may be more vulnerable to waterborne bacteria.
While this advisory is in effect at Seaside Beach, visitors should avoid wading in nearby creeks or in discolored water and stay clear of water runoff flowing into the ocean. Even if there is no advisory in effect, officials recommend avoiding swimming in the ocean within 48 hours after a rainstorm.
State officials advise that the status of water contact advisories at beaches is subject to change. For the most recent information on advisories, please visit www.healthoregon.org/beach or call 1-877-290-6767.
Although state officials discourage water contact, they continue to encourage other recreational activities such as walking, playing on the beach, flying kites, and picnicking on these beaches because they pose no health risk even during an advisory. Neighboring beaches are not affected by this advisory.
Since 2003 state 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. Oregon state organizations participating in this program are Oregon Public Health, Oregon Department of Environmental Quality and Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. For more information contact the Beach Monitoring Program at 971-673-0400 or www.healthoregon.org/beach.
Johnson urges North Coast residents to participate in redistricting hearing
The Oregon House and Senate Committees on Redistricting will hold a public hearing on Friday, April 15th from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Tillamook Bay Community College. Senate District 16 residents will also be able to participate via live video conference at the OSU Seafood Lab in Astoria.
This hearing replaces the originally scheduled hearing on March 11th that was cancelled due to a tsunami warning on the Oregon coast.
Please be advised, the Astoria video conference site has changed from the Oregon Employment Department to the OSU Seafood Lab, 2001 Marine Drive, Conference Room 231, Astoria, OR 97103.
The Senate and House Redistricting Committees are holding hearings across the state to provide Oregonians an opportunity to discuss the redistricting process, what defines a “community of interest,” and how legislative and congressional districts may change as a result of state population changes since 2000. By law, the criteria for redistricting require that each district, as nearly as practicable, shall:
• Be contiguous;
• Be of equal population;
• Utilize existing geographic or political boundaries;
• Not divide communities of common interest; and
• Be connected by transportation links.
On February 23rd, 2011 the United States Census Bureau released Oregon’s 2010 Census Population totals. The 2010 Census shows that Oregon has grown by 409,675 people since the last census in 2000.
Residents unable to attend the hearing can also e-mail testimony to oregon.redistricting@state.or.us.
WHAT: Joint Meeting of the House and Senate Redistricting Committees
WHEN: Friday, April 15th, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
WHERE: Tillamook Bay Community College
4301 3rd St, Tillamook, OR 97141 Room 214/215
Videoconference option (UPDATED):
OSU Seafood Lab
2001 Marine Drive, Conference Room 231, Astoria, OR 97103
This hearing replaces the originally scheduled hearing on March 11th that was cancelled due to a tsunami warning on the Oregon coast.
Please be advised, the Astoria video conference site has changed from the Oregon Employment Department to the OSU Seafood Lab, 2001 Marine Drive, Conference Room 231, Astoria, OR 97103.
The Senate and House Redistricting Committees are holding hearings across the state to provide Oregonians an opportunity to discuss the redistricting process, what defines a “community of interest,” and how legislative and congressional districts may change as a result of state population changes since 2000. By law, the criteria for redistricting require that each district, as nearly as practicable, shall:
• Be contiguous;
• Be of equal population;
• Utilize existing geographic or political boundaries;
• Not divide communities of common interest; and
• Be connected by transportation links.
On February 23rd, 2011 the United States Census Bureau released Oregon’s 2010 Census Population totals. The 2010 Census shows that Oregon has grown by 409,675 people since the last census in 2000.
Residents unable to attend the hearing can also e-mail testimony to oregon.redistricting@state.or.us.
WHAT: Joint Meeting of the House and Senate Redistricting Committees
WHEN: Friday, April 15th, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
WHERE: Tillamook Bay Community College
4301 3rd St, Tillamook, OR 97141 Room 214/215
Videoconference option (UPDATED):
OSU Seafood Lab
2001 Marine Drive, Conference Room 231, Astoria, OR 97103
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Bill will allow retired Oregon health providers to offer help during emergencies
SB 563 will help rural areas respond to natural disasters and other crises
Legislation sponsored by Senator Betsy Johnson to allow retired health care workers to register as volunteers during Governor-declared emergencies passed unanimously in the Oregon Senate this morning. Senate Bill 563 expands the pool of Oregonians who can participate in the Oregon Public Health Emergency Preparedness Program to include retired individuals who were licensed, certified, or otherwise authorized to administer health care services within the last ten years.
“There are many retired doctors, nurses, and other health care professionals whose help can save lives during a disaster,” said Johnson (D-Scappoose). “In some of Oregon’s more isolated communities, this bill will mean that critical help is available in a time of crisis.”
Johnson pointed to areas like north Tillamook County, where there are no hospitals, and some towns like Wheeler and Manzanita, which have only a couple of active primary care physicians, as examples of communities that could benefit from SB 563.
“SB 563 expands options for rural areas, allowing more qualified medical professionals to help during an emergency,” said Johnson. “We can’t anticipate when or where the next natural disaster will happen in Oregon, but we can work to make sure that we have as many tools in our toolbox as possible to respond quickly and safely when that disaster occurs.”
Johnson introduced the bill at the request of the Emergency Volunteer Corps of Nehalem Bay and the Medical Reserve Corps, a national organization that engages volunteers to strengthen public health, emergency response and community resiliency.
Senate Bill 563 now goes to the House for consideration.
Legislation sponsored by Senator Betsy Johnson to allow retired health care workers to register as volunteers during Governor-declared emergencies passed unanimously in the Oregon Senate this morning. Senate Bill 563 expands the pool of Oregonians who can participate in the Oregon Public Health Emergency Preparedness Program to include retired individuals who were licensed, certified, or otherwise authorized to administer health care services within the last ten years.
“There are many retired doctors, nurses, and other health care professionals whose help can save lives during a disaster,” said Johnson (D-Scappoose). “In some of Oregon’s more isolated communities, this bill will mean that critical help is available in a time of crisis.”
Johnson pointed to areas like north Tillamook County, where there are no hospitals, and some towns like Wheeler and Manzanita, which have only a couple of active primary care physicians, as examples of communities that could benefit from SB 563.
“SB 563 expands options for rural areas, allowing more qualified medical professionals to help during an emergency,” said Johnson. “We can’t anticipate when or where the next natural disaster will happen in Oregon, but we can work to make sure that we have as many tools in our toolbox as possible to respond quickly and safely when that disaster occurs.”
Johnson introduced the bill at the request of the Emergency Volunteer Corps of Nehalem Bay and the Medical Reserve Corps, a national organization that engages volunteers to strengthen public health, emergency response and community resiliency.
Senate Bill 563 now goes to the House for consideration.
FORESTRY BOARD TO MEET ON STATE FOREST MANAGEMENT PROPOSAL APRIL 13
The Board of Forestry will hold a special meeting on April 13 to discuss a legislative bill that would require Oregon's state forests to be managed primarily for timber production and generation of revenue to counties.
House Bill 2001 would change the statutory definition of Greatest Permanent Value, the concept that provides direction to the board and state Department of Forestry in managing state forests. In its current form, the law directs the board and the Oregon Department of Forestry to manage the state forestlands for a full range of social, economic and environmental benefits, with no single set of benefits having priority over the others.
At the meeting, the board will consider whether to adopt a position on the bill.
The meeting is scheduled for 1:15 p.m. on Wednesday at Oregon Department of Forestry headquarters, Building C - Tillamook Room, 2600 State St., in Salem. The meeting will be conducted by telephone conference.
The meeting is open to the public, with the Tillamook Room designated as the listening site. The agenda includes a public comment period.
Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services or assistance can be arranged by calling the department's Agency Affairs Office prior to the meeting, 503-945-7200, text telephone 503-945-7213.
House Bill 2001 would change the statutory definition of Greatest Permanent Value, the concept that provides direction to the board and state Department of Forestry in managing state forests. In its current form, the law directs the board and the Oregon Department of Forestry to manage the state forestlands for a full range of social, economic and environmental benefits, with no single set of benefits having priority over the others.
At the meeting, the board will consider whether to adopt a position on the bill.
The meeting is scheduled for 1:15 p.m. on Wednesday at Oregon Department of Forestry headquarters, Building C - Tillamook Room, 2600 State St., in Salem. The meeting will be conducted by telephone conference.
The meeting is open to the public, with the Tillamook Room designated as the listening site. The agenda includes a public comment period.
Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services or assistance can be arranged by calling the department's Agency Affairs Office prior to the meeting, 503-945-7200, text telephone 503-945-7213.
UPDATE: HUMAN REMAINS FOUND ON OCEAN BEACH NEAR SOUTH JETTY IN FORT STEVENS STATE PARK IDENTIFIED AS MISSING TSUNAMI VICTIM
The Oregon State Medical Examiner's Office positively identified the remains of a body found April 2 on the ocean shore south of the Columbia River as a missing man who was swept into the ocean by a tsunami on the northern California coast one month ago.
According to Dr. Chris Young, the body of DUSTIN DOUGLAS WEBER, age 25, was positively indentified by a forensic odontologist using dental records. WEBER was reported missing March 11 near the mouth of the Klamath River in Del Norte County, California.
On April 2, 2011 at approximately 8:30 a.m. a person walking on the beach reported finding the remains which were subsequently taken to the Oregon State Medical Examiner's Office in Portland for positive identification.
Next of kin and Del Norte County Sheriff's Office were notified.
According to Dr. Chris Young, the body of DUSTIN DOUGLAS WEBER, age 25, was positively indentified by a forensic odontologist using dental records. WEBER was reported missing March 11 near the mouth of the Klamath River in Del Norte County, California.
On April 2, 2011 at approximately 8:30 a.m. a person walking on the beach reported finding the remains which were subsequently taken to the Oregon State Medical Examiner's Office in Portland for positive identification.
Next of kin and Del Norte County Sheriff's Office were notified.
Monday, April 11, 2011
Oregon hatchery research advisory committee seeks new member
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and Oregon State University announced today they are seeking one new member for the Oregon Hatchery Research Center Advisory Committee.
The position, representing commercial fisheries, opens in June 2011 and the successful candidate will serve a two-year term. If reappointed, subsequent term(s) will be three years. Candidates must submit a letter of interest by April 30. The letter should specify why the applicant is interested and provide three references. ODFW and OSU representatives will finalize their selections prior to June 1, 2011.
The 15-member committee advises the OHRC Senior Scientist on activities and functions related to the operation and maintenance of the OHRC. Committee members represent the federal government, local governments, conservation groups, sport fishing groups, the commercial fishing industry, tribes, resource producers (agriculture, timber and gravel), watershed councils and education. Two members represent the public-at-large and four represent the scientific community.
The committee meets quarterly, with meetings scheduled for 2011 being June 8, September 19 and December 12.
The OHRC is a cooperative research project between ODFW and OSU. The center’s mission is to develop an understanding of the mechanisms that may create differences between hatchery and wild fish, and devise ways to reduce and manage the differences so that hatcheries can be used responsibly in the conservation and management of Oregon’s native fish.
For more information about the Advisory Committee or how to submit a letter of interest, please contact Margaret Cleveland at margaret.l.cleveland@state.or.us or 503-947-6230. For more information about the OHRC, visit OHRC’s Web site.
The position, representing commercial fisheries, opens in June 2011 and the successful candidate will serve a two-year term. If reappointed, subsequent term(s) will be three years. Candidates must submit a letter of interest by April 30. The letter should specify why the applicant is interested and provide three references. ODFW and OSU representatives will finalize their selections prior to June 1, 2011.
The 15-member committee advises the OHRC Senior Scientist on activities and functions related to the operation and maintenance of the OHRC. Committee members represent the federal government, local governments, conservation groups, sport fishing groups, the commercial fishing industry, tribes, resource producers (agriculture, timber and gravel), watershed councils and education. Two members represent the public-at-large and four represent the scientific community.
The committee meets quarterly, with meetings scheduled for 2011 being June 8, September 19 and December 12.
The OHRC is a cooperative research project between ODFW and OSU. The center’s mission is to develop an understanding of the mechanisms that may create differences between hatchery and wild fish, and devise ways to reduce and manage the differences so that hatcheries can be used responsibly in the conservation and management of Oregon’s native fish.
For more information about the Advisory Committee or how to submit a letter of interest, please contact Margaret Cleveland at margaret.l.cleveland@state.or.us or 503-947-6230. For more information about the OHRC, visit OHRC’s Web site.
PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD ON OREGON STATE FOREST PLANS OPENS APRIL 11
The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) invites the public to comment on its draft plans to guide management of the state-owned forests. A comment period opens April 11 on both short- and long-term plans proposed for the approximately 821,000 acres of public forestland managed by ODF.
Written comments will be accepted until 5 p.m. on May 25.
The public is invited to comment on:
- annual operations plans for nine ODF districts
- 10-year implementation plans for forests managed by ODF's Astoria and Forest Grove districts
ANNUAL OPERATIONS PLANS
These plans describe specific activities such as timber sales and reforestation, road building, stream enhancement and recreation projects on the state forests. The draft annual operations plans are available for review at each ODF district office and at ODF headquarters in Salem. They are also posted on the ODF website.
After public comments have been considered and any changes made, district foresters will approve the annual operations plans for their districts. The plans under review are for the period from July 2011 through June 2012.
Written comments will be accepted until 5 p.m. on May 25.
The public is invited to comment on:
- annual operations plans for nine ODF districts
- 10-year implementation plans for forests managed by ODF's Astoria and Forest Grove districts
ANNUAL OPERATIONS PLANS
These plans describe specific activities such as timber sales and reforestation, road building, stream enhancement and recreation projects on the state forests. The draft annual operations plans are available for review at each ODF district office and at ODF headquarters in Salem. They are also posted on the ODF website.
After public comments have been considered and any changes made, district foresters will approve the annual operations plans for their districts. The plans under review are for the period from July 2011 through June 2012.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Washington State Route 4 between Stella and Longview now open, single lane traffic on weekdays
WSDOT officials have opened Washington State Route 4 between Longview and the Stella area. A slide that closed the road in both directions last Tuesday morning has been cleared. Crews will now work to repair wire mesh on the hillside and reconstruct protective rockfall fencing.
Drivers can expect single-lane traffic and delays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. Both lanes of SR 4 will be open at night and on weekends.
Work is expected to be complete in late April.
Drivers can expect single-lane traffic and delays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. Both lanes of SR 4 will be open at night and on weekends.
Work is expected to be complete in late April.
Friday, April 8, 2011
High-speed-rail funding from Ohio and Wisconsin coming to Washington
Federal and state officials signed documents Thursday that guarantee Washington state will get $145 million in high-speed-rail funding originally intended for Ohio and Wisconsin. Washington was initially awarded this portion of federal funding in late 2010 when the U.S. Department of Transportation redirected money returned by governors in Ohio and Wisconsin.
Thursday’s signatures by the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) allow project teams to move forward and start work on improving and expanding Amtrak Cascades service in Washington.
The $145 million adds to $590 million already obligated by the FRA, bringing Washington state’s total to approximately $735 million in American Reinvestment and Recovery Act (ARRA) high-speed-rail funding. On April 4, WSDOT submitted an application for a $120 million portion of funds returned by Florida.
All funding will be used for improvements that boost the rail-line capacity and relieve mainline congestion, allowing Amtrak Cascades to offer more frequent and reliable passenger rail service between Portland and Vancouver, B.C. Work is expected to begin this summer.
“This grant funding will allow us to expand our vision for the future of the Amtrak Cascades service,” said Washington Transportation Secretary Paula Hammond. “Ridership is steadily increasing, and we know this trend will continue as we add more schedule options and increase travel speed.”
Earlier WSDOT reported the most recent award amount as $161 million. After review, the FRA chose to exclude the Centralia Station Modifications project, dropping the award amount by $16 million to the current $145 million. WSDOT resubmitted the project for funding as part of the application for the Florida money.
Nearly $1.0 billion in capital and operating funds has been invested in higher speed intercity passenger rail in the Pacific Northwest Rail Corridor since 1994. Visit WSDOT’s passenger rail website.
Thursday’s signatures by the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) allow project teams to move forward and start work on improving and expanding Amtrak Cascades service in Washington.
The $145 million adds to $590 million already obligated by the FRA, bringing Washington state’s total to approximately $735 million in American Reinvestment and Recovery Act (ARRA) high-speed-rail funding. On April 4, WSDOT submitted an application for a $120 million portion of funds returned by Florida.
All funding will be used for improvements that boost the rail-line capacity and relieve mainline congestion, allowing Amtrak Cascades to offer more frequent and reliable passenger rail service between Portland and Vancouver, B.C. Work is expected to begin this summer.
“This grant funding will allow us to expand our vision for the future of the Amtrak Cascades service,” said Washington Transportation Secretary Paula Hammond. “Ridership is steadily increasing, and we know this trend will continue as we add more schedule options and increase travel speed.”
Earlier WSDOT reported the most recent award amount as $161 million. After review, the FRA chose to exclude the Centralia Station Modifications project, dropping the award amount by $16 million to the current $145 million. WSDOT resubmitted the project for funding as part of the application for the Florida money.
Nearly $1.0 billion in capital and operating funds has been invested in higher speed intercity passenger rail in the Pacific Northwest Rail Corridor since 1994. Visit WSDOT’s passenger rail website.
APPLICANTS SOUGHT FOR CLATSOP COUNTY RECREATIONAL LANDS COMMITTEE
Clatsop County is seeking applicants for open seats on the Recreational Lands Planning Advisory Committee.
The citizen committee assists in developing long-range plans for county parks, and formulating amendments to the recreation lands element of the county’s comprehensive land-use plan. The committee meets once a month.
The county board of commissioners will make the appointments.
To apply, obtain an application form and return it to the Clatsop County Manager’s Office at 800 Exchange St., Suite 410, Astoria OR 97103, (503) 325-1000. Forms are available from the County Manager’s Office or can be downloaded from the county website www.co.clatsop.or.us at “Documents” under “Board of Commissioners/Administration.”
The citizen committee assists in developing long-range plans for county parks, and formulating amendments to the recreation lands element of the county’s comprehensive land-use plan. The committee meets once a month.
The county board of commissioners will make the appointments.
To apply, obtain an application form and return it to the Clatsop County Manager’s Office at 800 Exchange St., Suite 410, Astoria OR 97103, (503) 325-1000. Forms are available from the County Manager’s Office or can be downloaded from the county website www.co.clatsop.or.us at “Documents” under “Board of Commissioners/Administration.”
Thursday, April 7, 2011
ODFW seeks comment fish passage exemption for DeLaura Beach Lane near Warrenton
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is seeking public comment on a request to exempt from fish passage requirements two existing culverts located on DeLaura Beach Lane near Warrenton in Clatsop County. Public comments are due by April 28, 2011.
The City of Warrenton has proposed construction of a bicycle path along DeLaura Beach Lane located north of Seaside in Clatsop County. In order to construct this path, two culverts will need to be lengthened. These culverts connect wetlands that were historically connected to upper Neacoxie Creek. This proposed action has triggered Oregon’s fish passage laws.
Historically, Neacoxie Creek flowed from north to south and emptied into the lower Necanicum River at the estuary. However, the connection between the creek and the estuary was severed by the construction of the Camp Rilea military base. This transformed upper Neacoxie Creek into a series of wetlands with no connection to a waterbody containing native migratory fish.
According to Ken Loffink, ODFW assistant Fish Passage Program coordinator, ODFW may grant the exemption if there is no appreciable benefit to fish from providing passage. At the DeLaura Beach Lane site, fish passage barriers below the culvert block fish from accessing the project area, as well as the roughly 0.75 miles of habitat located upstream. Currently there are no native migratory fish present in these landlocked wetland lakes, and conditions relevant to fish access are unlikely to change in the future.
Because of these site conditions, ODFW has made an initial determination that even if the City of Warrenton provided fish passage, the action would not result in an appreciable benefit to native migratory fish.
Therefore, unless public comment is provided that would affect the Department's determination, the exemption request will be approved.
In the meantime, members of the public will have until April 28, 2011 to submit written comments on the proposed plan. The City of Warrenton’s fish passage exemption application and the Department’s benefit analysis are available at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/fish/passage/ .
Members of the public can send written comments to or request additional information from Ken Loffink, ODFW Assistant Fish Passage Program Coordinator, 3406 NE Cherry Ave. NE, Salem, OR 97303, e-mail, Ken.J.Loffink@state.or.us, or by calling (503) 947-6256.
The City of Warrenton has proposed construction of a bicycle path along DeLaura Beach Lane located north of Seaside in Clatsop County. In order to construct this path, two culverts will need to be lengthened. These culverts connect wetlands that were historically connected to upper Neacoxie Creek. This proposed action has triggered Oregon’s fish passage laws.
Historically, Neacoxie Creek flowed from north to south and emptied into the lower Necanicum River at the estuary. However, the connection between the creek and the estuary was severed by the construction of the Camp Rilea military base. This transformed upper Neacoxie Creek into a series of wetlands with no connection to a waterbody containing native migratory fish.
According to Ken Loffink, ODFW assistant Fish Passage Program coordinator, ODFW may grant the exemption if there is no appreciable benefit to fish from providing passage. At the DeLaura Beach Lane site, fish passage barriers below the culvert block fish from accessing the project area, as well as the roughly 0.75 miles of habitat located upstream. Currently there are no native migratory fish present in these landlocked wetland lakes, and conditions relevant to fish access are unlikely to change in the future.
Because of these site conditions, ODFW has made an initial determination that even if the City of Warrenton provided fish passage, the action would not result in an appreciable benefit to native migratory fish.
Therefore, unless public comment is provided that would affect the Department's determination, the exemption request will be approved.
In the meantime, members of the public will have until April 28, 2011 to submit written comments on the proposed plan. The City of Warrenton’s fish passage exemption application and the Department’s benefit analysis are available at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/fish/passage/ .
Members of the public can send written comments to or request additional information from Ken Loffink, ODFW Assistant Fish Passage Program Coordinator, 3406 NE Cherry Ave. NE, Salem, OR 97303, e-mail, Ken.J.Loffink@state.or.us, or by calling (503) 947-6256.
Spring chinook season will continue on lower Columbia
(photo: Oregon Dept. of Fish and Wildlife)Lower Columbia River salmon fishermen will get another chance for a Columbia River spring chinook when the season for marked hatchery fish reopens beginning Friday (April 8) through April 15.
The initial season, which opened March 1 and closed April 4, was marred with poor river and weather conditions that made fishing tough. As of Monday, approximately 3,820 upriver chinook remained on the catch quota of 7,750.
“Given the available fish remaining on the harvest guideline, we believe at least an additional eight days are available to give fishermen a chance to catch the upriver chinook quota,” said Chris Kern, ODFW’s assistant Columbia River fisheries manager.
“It’s unfortunate that the poor conditions have put a damper on the catch so far, but hopefully, conditions will improve. We’ll continue to monitor the fishery and intend to review catches again next week to see if there are additional opportunities for more fishing time.”
As of April 4, sport fishermen had logged 82,300 angler trips on the lower Columbia River. From March 1 to April 4, fisherman caught approximately 49 percent of what managers had expected to be caught.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
State Route 4 near Stella remains closed due to landslide concern
Work will begin today (Thursday) to reopen a stretch of State Route 4 near Stella closed by a landslide that covered the highway Tuesday, April 5. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) hired Scarsella Brothers Inc. of Seattle under an emergency contract to complete the work.
Crews will work 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., seven days a week to clear the landslide and remove up to 50 dump-truck loads of unstable material from a slope high above SR 4. WSDOT expects to reopen the highway early next week.
The $350,000 project is funded by emergency dollars.
While SR 4 is closed, WSDOT will pay fares for drivers to use the Ferry Wahkiakum between Puget Island and Westport, Ore. The ferry is running 24 hours a day. Drivers can expect long wait times due to high demand.
Local transit service Wahkiakum On The Move is running shuttle buses from Cathlamet to Longview via the Westport/Puget Island ferry.
For Longview to Cathlamet:
Transit Station 6:45am 11:00am 2:45pm 5:30pm
Rite Aid 7:00am 11:15am 3:00pm 5:45pm
Fred Meyer 7:15am 11:30am 3:15pm 6:00pm
For Cathlamet to Longview:
Strong Park 7:00am 11:00am 3:50pm
Cathlamet Hotel 7:05am 11:05am 3:45pm
Chevron 7:15am 11:10am 3:30pm
Since pedestrians take up less room on the ferry than cars, using this service helps reduce wait times and increases the ferry’s capacity.
For more details on bus service, or to schedule a ride, please call (360)795-3101, or 1-888-795-3101.
CLATSOP COUNTY ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR PLANNING COMMISSION
Clatsop County is accepting applications for the county planning commission.
On March 23 the county board of commissioners voted to vacate all seven seats on the panel . Current members and new applicants are invited to apply for the vacated positions.
The planning commission advises the board of commissioners on land-use planning, conducts land-use hearings and implements the county’s zoning and comprehensive plan. The panel normally meets once a month.
Appointees to these vacancies will serve the remainder of the current terms, which expire at various dates. The board of commissioners will make the appointments.
The deadline to apply is May 13. Applications are available the Clatsop County Manager’s Office at 800 Exchange St., Suite 410, Astoria, or they can be downloaded from the Clatsop County website at “Documents” under “County Manager.”
On March 23 the county board of commissioners voted to vacate all seven seats on the panel . Current members and new applicants are invited to apply for the vacated positions.
The planning commission advises the board of commissioners on land-use planning, conducts land-use hearings and implements the county’s zoning and comprehensive plan. The panel normally meets once a month.
Appointees to these vacancies will serve the remainder of the current terms, which expire at various dates. The board of commissioners will make the appointments.
The deadline to apply is May 13. Applications are available the Clatsop County Manager’s Office at 800 Exchange St., Suite 410, Astoria, or they can be downloaded from the Clatsop County website at “Documents” under “County Manager.”
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
ODOT to work on Old Youngs Bay Bridge
Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) bridge crews will begin repairing the wood timber structure of the Old Youngs Bay Bridge on U.S. 101 (Business) on Monday, April 18 and continuing until May 6. Motorists can expect delays as only one lane of traffic will be open with flaggers.
Several of ODOT’s bridge crews from Astoria, Ona Beach, Salem and Albany will be involved in the repairs. The work consists of installing temporary scaffolding under the bridge, and the removal and replacement of the timber caps, which are part of the wood timber structure and sit on the timber pilings. Also, many braces will also be replaced as part of the project.
During the project, the northbound lane will be closed as flaggers divert traffic using the southbound lane. Crews will be working from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily for the three weeks, including weekends. Motorists can expect up to 20 minute delays.
Portable variable message signs (VMS) will be installed at both ends of the bridge warning motorists of the planned work and delays.
The Old Young’s Bay Bridge was designed and built in 1921 by Conde McCullough. It was the first bridge by McCullough, who is famous for many of the coastal bridges built on U.S. 101 in Oregon. The bridge spans Youngs Bay and connects Astoria with communities to the south and east of Warrenton.
Several of ODOT’s bridge crews from Astoria, Ona Beach, Salem and Albany will be involved in the repairs. The work consists of installing temporary scaffolding under the bridge, and the removal and replacement of the timber caps, which are part of the wood timber structure and sit on the timber pilings. Also, many braces will also be replaced as part of the project.
During the project, the northbound lane will be closed as flaggers divert traffic using the southbound lane. Crews will be working from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily for the three weeks, including weekends. Motorists can expect up to 20 minute delays.
Portable variable message signs (VMS) will be installed at both ends of the bridge warning motorists of the planned work and delays.
The Old Young’s Bay Bridge was designed and built in 1921 by Conde McCullough. It was the first bridge by McCullough, who is famous for many of the coastal bridges built on U.S. 101 in Oregon. The bridge spans Youngs Bay and connects Astoria with communities to the south and east of Warrenton.
Monday, April 4, 2011
NEW STATE PARK CABINS GO ON RESERVATIONS SYSTEM APRIL 7
The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will accept reservations for 16 new deluxe cabins in three state parks beginning April 7.
Although the department's reservation service, Reservations Northwest, will begin the bookings April 7, opening dates for overnight stays differ for each park:
* Two cabins at Prineville Reservoir State Park will open June 15, 2011. Located 16 miles southeast of Prineville, the park already rents three deluxe models year round.
* Fort Stevens State Park will unveil 11 cabins- the first ever offered at the park-starting July 1, 2011. The park, 10 miles west of Astoria, also has 15 yurts to go with the largest number of RV campsites (476) in Oregon.
* Cape Lookout State Park will have the other three cabins opening Aug. 1, 2011. The park has three existing deluxe cabins available all year 11 miles southwest of Tillamook.
Reservations may be made online through www.oregonstateparks.org or by calling Reservations Northwest at 1-800-452-5687. Bookings are accepted for dates two days to nine months in advance. Rental rates are available on the web and by calling 1-800-551-6949.
The new cabins measure 16 by 24 feet and are designed to sleep up to five people. Each has a six-foot covered front porch.
The floor plan for each deluxe cabin has a bathroom with a shower, a living room with a futon that folds into a double bed, and a bedroom with a bunk bed that sleeps three-one on top and two on the bottom. Other features include a dining table with chairs, and an entertainment cabinet with a television and DVD player. A kitchenette has a sink, a refrigerator and a microwave oven. Renters must bring their own bedding or sleeping bags along with dishes, cooking and eating utensils, towels and toiletries.
Oregon Corrections Enterprises built the new prefabricated cabin kits and their furnishings for OPRD's Parks and Prisons program. Local contractors were hired for on-site installation and utility work.
State lottery dollars paid for the Cape Lookout and Fort Stevens cabins, and half the cost of the Prineville Reservoir additions. Federal funding from the Bureau of Reclamation financed the other half of the Prineville Reservoir expenses.
OPRD now has 90 cabins in 14 state parks. Two-thirds of the cabins are rustic style with heating, lights, and beds with mattresses, but no bathrooms or kitchen areas. More details about both styles are found at http://www.oregon.gov/OPRD/PARKS/cabins.shtml.
For more information, contact these park managers:
Teri Wing, Fort Stevens State Park
503-861-3170, ext. 27
Pete Marvin, Manager, Cape Lookout State Park
503-842-3128, ext. 222
Steve Memminger, Manager, Prineville Reservoir State Park
541-416-0645, ext. 23
Contact Info: Chris Havel
503-986-0722 (desk), 503-931-2590 (cell)
Teri Wing, Manager, Fort Stevens State Park
503-861-3170, ext. 27
Pete Marvin, Manager, Cape Lookout State Park
503-842-3128, ext. 222
Steve Memminger, Manager, Prineville Reservoir State Park
541-416-0645, ext. 23
Although the department's reservation service, Reservations Northwest, will begin the bookings April 7, opening dates for overnight stays differ for each park:
* Two cabins at Prineville Reservoir State Park will open June 15, 2011. Located 16 miles southeast of Prineville, the park already rents three deluxe models year round.
* Fort Stevens State Park will unveil 11 cabins- the first ever offered at the park-starting July 1, 2011. The park, 10 miles west of Astoria, also has 15 yurts to go with the largest number of RV campsites (476) in Oregon.
* Cape Lookout State Park will have the other three cabins opening Aug. 1, 2011. The park has three existing deluxe cabins available all year 11 miles southwest of Tillamook.
Reservations may be made online through www.oregonstateparks.org or by calling Reservations Northwest at 1-800-452-5687. Bookings are accepted for dates two days to nine months in advance. Rental rates are available on the web and by calling 1-800-551-6949.
The new cabins measure 16 by 24 feet and are designed to sleep up to five people. Each has a six-foot covered front porch.
The floor plan for each deluxe cabin has a bathroom with a shower, a living room with a futon that folds into a double bed, and a bedroom with a bunk bed that sleeps three-one on top and two on the bottom. Other features include a dining table with chairs, and an entertainment cabinet with a television and DVD player. A kitchenette has a sink, a refrigerator and a microwave oven. Renters must bring their own bedding or sleeping bags along with dishes, cooking and eating utensils, towels and toiletries.
Oregon Corrections Enterprises built the new prefabricated cabin kits and their furnishings for OPRD's Parks and Prisons program. Local contractors were hired for on-site installation and utility work.
State lottery dollars paid for the Cape Lookout and Fort Stevens cabins, and half the cost of the Prineville Reservoir additions. Federal funding from the Bureau of Reclamation financed the other half of the Prineville Reservoir expenses.
OPRD now has 90 cabins in 14 state parks. Two-thirds of the cabins are rustic style with heating, lights, and beds with mattresses, but no bathrooms or kitchen areas. More details about both styles are found at http://www.oregon.gov/OPRD/PARKS/cabins.shtml.
For more information, contact these park managers:
Teri Wing, Fort Stevens State Park
503-861-3170, ext. 27
Pete Marvin, Manager, Cape Lookout State Park
503-842-3128, ext. 222
Steve Memminger, Manager, Prineville Reservoir State Park
541-416-0645, ext. 23
Contact Info: Chris Havel
503-986-0722 (desk), 503-931-2590 (cell)
Teri Wing, Manager, Fort Stevens State Park
503-861-3170, ext. 27
Pete Marvin, Manager, Cape Lookout State Park
503-842-3128, ext. 222
Steve Memminger, Manager, Prineville Reservoir State Park
541-416-0645, ext. 23
Friday, April 1, 2011
SPRING SALE ON OREGON STATE PARK DAY-USE PARKING PERMITS OPENS
State park day-use parking permits good for 12 months go on sale April 1 for $25-$5 off the regular price.
The transferrable permit is honored at 26 popular parks where parking permits are required. The permit is sold, along with a 24-month version, at major Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) offices throughout Oregon, or by phone: 1-800-551-6949 through April 30. Also transferrable, the 24-month permit's $50 price includes a built-in, year-round discount.
OPRD operates day-use areas at more than 175 state parks. A list of the parks noting which ones require day-use parking permits is online through www.oregonstateparks.org.
The transferrable permit is honored at 26 popular parks where parking permits are required. The permit is sold, along with a 24-month version, at major Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) offices throughout Oregon, or by phone: 1-800-551-6949 through April 30. Also transferrable, the 24-month permit's $50 price includes a built-in, year-round discount.
OPRD operates day-use areas at more than 175 state parks. A list of the parks noting which ones require day-use parking permits is online through www.oregonstateparks.org.
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