Public meetings scheduled for this month
OLYMPIA – January 5, 2015 – The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission is seeking public comment on possible changes to the rule that prohibits the use of wind-powered vehicles on agency-managed ocean beaches. The commission is considering allowing the use of these vehicles under specific circumstances.
State Parks is in the preliminary stages of considering this change to the rule and invites the public to comment at either of two public meetings scheduled this month:
- In Ilwaco: 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Jan.28, at Ilwaco Community Building, 158 1st Ave. North, Ilwaco. (Directions: http://goo.gl/maps/MY0va)
- In Ocean Shores: 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 29, at the Ocean Shores Convention Center, 120 West Chance A la Mer in Ocean Shores. (Directions: http://goo.gl/maps/z8K19)
Kite buggies, blo-karts, kite boards and other wind/sand sailing recreational vehicles are currently prohibited from ocean beach areas managed by State Parks. Several years ago, wind-powered vehicle enthusiasts approached State Parks to consider modifying the current rule—Chapter 352-37 of the Washington Administrative Code (WAC).
In modifying the rule to allow for wind-powered vehicles, State Parks is considering the following:
- How best to ensure safety on the beach.
- How to protect important wildlife species.
- When and where to allow this recreation use.
- What limitations should be imposed.
- The possible need for monitoring
More information about the wind-powered vehicles proposal is at: www.parks.wa.gov/902/Wind-Powered-Vehicles-on-Ocean-Beaches.
Based on input received at these meetings and public comment submitted through the website, State Parks staff will provide draft changes to the rule for the Commission to consider at the regular meeting scheduled for March 26 in Lakewood.
WAC 352-37 can be viewed at: app.leg.wa.gov/WAC/default.aspx?cite=352-37. The specific rule under discussion is 352-37-190 “Excluded/limited recreation activities.”
For more information, contact Randy Kline, Parks Planner, randy.kline@parks.wa.gov or (360) 902-8632.
About Washington State Parks
The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission manages more than 100 state parks and properties totaling approximately 120,000 acres. The Commission provides a variety of recreation opportunities for citizens and provides stewardship protection for a diverse array of natural, cultural and historic resources. State Parks’ statewide programs include long-distance trails, boating safety and winter recreation.
Follow Washington State Parks:
Share your favorite state park adventure on the State Parks’ blog site at www.AdventureAwaits.com.
Support state parks by purchasing your annual Discover Pass today, and enjoy a whole year of outdoor fun on Washington’s beautiful state-managed recreation lands. For more information, visit www.discoverpass.wa.gov.
Media contacts:
Randy Kline, (360) 902-8632 Toni Droscher, (360) 902-8604
Wash. Telecommunications Relay Service: (800) 833-6388
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