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State Parks invites public to attend planning meeting for Kopachuck State Park
OLYMPIA – Jan. 30, 2014 – The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission invites the public to a workshop to discuss development of a master plan for Kopachuck State Park near Gig Harbor.
The meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 11, in the Commons at Kopachuck Middle School, 10414 56th St. N.W., Gig Harbor.
In 2010, the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission conducted a four-stage Classification and Management Plan (CAMP) process to identify issues and gather public input on the park. State Parks approved land classifications and a long-term boundary for Kopachuck in January, 2011. Since that time, the park was found to be infested with laminated root rot, a disease that affected many of the mature Douglas-fir trees. Subsequently, in 2012, many trees were removed. The forested campground remains closed to ensure greater public safety.
As a result of the tree issues, Kopachuck is currently operated as a day-use park. The Commission intends to develop a master plan based on the land classifications adopted as part of the 2010 planning process and update the park plan to be in alignment with the park’s current status as a day-use operation.
At the meeting, staff will review highlights of the CAMP and recent history of the park and its tree problems. The public is invited to view the CAMP for Kopachuck online, at www.parks.wa.gov/plans/kopachuck-jarrellcove/ Public comment may be shared at the meeting or sent via e-mail to planning@parks.wa.gov.
Kopachuck is a 109-acre marine park with 5,600 feet of saltwater shoreline on Henderson Bay. The park includes Cutts Island, a half mile from shore and reachable only by boat. Kopachuck is known for its scenic views of the Olympic Mountains and sunsets over Puget Sound.
Stay connected to your state parks by following Washington State Parks at www.facebook.com/WashingtonStateParks, www.twitter.com/WaStatePks_NEWS, www.foursquare.com/WAStatePks and www.youtube.com/WashingtonStateParks. Share your favorite state park adventure on the new State Parks’ blog site at www.AdventureAwaits.com.
The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission manages a diverse system of more than 100 state parks and recreation programs, including long-distance trails, boating safety and winter recreation. Washington State Parks turned 100 years old in 2013. For more information about parks and services, visit www.parks.wa.gov/events/.
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.
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