Hilary Franz, Commissioner of Public Lands, has announced that the State now has one less derelict structure polluting Washington waters. Thanks to the partnership between DNR (Dept. of Natural Resources), local governments, tribes, and non-profit organizations, the old High Tides Seafood Pier at Neah Bay has been removed.
The pier was identified as one of the “Filthy Four” that needed to be on the priority list for removal. DNR’s aquatics team identifies structures that threaten our waterways and marine life, including those that have creosote pilings, tire reefs, and others that pose navigation hazards and leach toxic chemicals. Hilary Franz reports that DNR has been able to boost their efforts to remove these structures via funding from the state legislature and partnerships with stakeholders.
Hilary Franz joined members of the aquatics team, local partners, and leaders from the Makah Tribe in late September at Neah Bay in celebration of this accomplishment. After years of planning, negotiating, and handwringing, we were able to remove the High Tides Seafood Pier, noted Hilary Franz. She went on to say that it’s her hope that we will soon make it the “Terrible Two, then the “Wonky One, and someday the “Natural None.” Ideas for other names are welcome.
To learn more about the derelict vessels and structures removal program, click HERE.
Photo: Olympic Peninsula Environmental News
