The Port Of Hoodsport

2019 Spring Newsletter

Commissioners:

Terry Brazil – Lake Cushman

Mike Petz – Hoodsport

John O’ Laughlin – Hoodsport

The public restrooms remain open on an intermittent schedule approved by Mason County, portable sanicans are provided to accommodate the public during the times when the restrooms are closed. Overwhelming & Excessive use of the Public Restrooms by local & out of area visitors far exceeded the anticipation & design standards of the septic system. Extensive repairs and modifications will be made to the septic drain field starting in the spring of 2019.

The Port’s Waterfront marina and park will be the location for the 3rd annual Fjordin Crossin event hosted by the Hardware Distillery celebrating the Norwegian tradition of Aquivit on Saturday June 29^th. There will be Vendors at the park and events on and around the dock starting at noon. Part of the Ports dock will be reserved to accommodate the ‘Twanoh’, a boat that will be crossing the Hood Canal with Vikings and a barrel of Aquavit as part of the tradition. The Port consciously pursues ecological friendly methods of maintaining the Waterfront Park, Marina and Hoodsport Trail Park.

The Port dock and slips are available to the public on a first come first served basis with overnight moorage available. Shrimping season in 2019 will be May 11^th, 15^th, 29^th and June 1^st.

The Port of Hoodsport, in partnership with the Mason County Disc Golf Association is developing a professional disc golf course at the upper Hoodsport Trail Park that values the natural aesthetics of the park; it will attract both professional & amateur disc golfers. The course was designed and developed with Volunteer labor from the disc golf community who will maintain the quality and safety of the course throughout its life. The course will minimize interface with existing hiking trails allowing hikers to also enjoy hiking the disc golf course. The Port provided project materials such as the disc baskets and T pads. When the course use increases beyond the current restroom capacity, a permanent vault restroom will be installed. The Hoodsport Hills Disc Golf course crew is well on their way in the development of Phase II which is the family friendly beginner’s course on the level 20 acres situated on the South side of State Rt 119 by the Lake Cushman Golf Course, it should be playable by Spring 2019. A beautiful Gazebo was donated by the Hoodsport chapter of the Lions Club and over the summer was rebuilt in the parking area providing a covered area for the public to use & enjoy.

“Overnight” moorage is available at the Port of Hoodsport’s Marina dock on a first come first served basis, no reservations, fees are $10. p/nite and stays are limited to 24 hours at a time. Be sure to check the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website for fishing & harvesting dates, times & warnings. (In 2015 The Washington State Dept of Health closed most of Hood Canal to recreational shellfish (oysters, clams, mussels) harvest. This was due to the detection of a marine biotoxin, paralytic shellfish poison (PSP) which can be deadly and cannot be removed by cooking. Each and every time you harvest, Everyone needs to check the marine biotoxin hotline at 1-800-562-5632 or go to the website of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife at www.doh.wa.gov/shellfishsafety.htm for more information.)

2018 Spring Newsletter

Commissioners:

Terry Brazil – Lake Cushman

Mike Petz – Hoodsport

John O’ Laughlin – Hoodsport

Overwhelming & Excessive use of the Public Restrooms by local & out of area visitors has far exceeded the anticipation & design standards of the septic system. Extensive repairs and modifications will be made which could take up to six months. Temporary port o pots are in place until then.

The Port is still working with WSDOT to make improvements on traffic safety through Hoodsport. The Port will be hosting another public meeting with WSDOT, the Port commission and the public; in an effort to emphasis the importance of traffic calming devices on Highway 101 in Hoodsport.

Work to repair the storm damage at the Port of Hoodsport’s Dock will begin with a hopeful completion of repairs by mid April. The 1^st Annual Fjordin Crossin event hosted by the Hardware Distillery will take place at the Ports Waterfront Park and dock on Saturday June 23^rd.

The Port and Morgan Rothrock, Warden of the Hoodsport Hills Disc Golf course are facing major challenges in finding ‘Volunteers’ to help work on Phase II of the disc golf course. If you or anyone you know who may interested in helping with the development of the Beginners course, please contact the Port for organized work parties.

The Port of Hoodsport, in partnership with the Mason County Disc Golf Association is developing a professional disc golf course at the Hoodsport Trail Park that values the natural aesthetics of the park and will attract both professional and amateur disc golfers. The course is designed and developed with Volunteer labor from the disc golf community who will maintain the quality and safety of the course throughout its life. The course will minimize interface with existing trails allowing hikers to also enjoy hiking the disc golf course. The Port is providing materials such as the disc baskets and T pads. When the course use increases beyond the current restroom capacity, a permanent vault restroom will be installed. The first 9 holes are currently available for play. Phase II will be designed for Beginners, Seniors and Children. It will be constructed on
the
level 20 acres situated on the South side of State Rt 119 by the Lake Cushman Golf Course and should be playable by Spring 2019.

Shrimp Season is currently scheduled for May 5, 9, 12 and 23^rd in 2018. Crabbing starts in July 2018. As a Reminder, Boaters always have the right of way at the public dock.

“Overnight” moorage is available at the Port of Hoodsport’s Marina dock on a first come first served basis, no reservations, fees are $10. p/nite and stays are limited to 24 hours at a time. Be sure to check the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website for fishing & harvesting dates, times & warnings. (In 2015 The Washington State Dept of Health closed most of Hood Canal to recreational shellfish (oysters, clams, mussels) harvest. This was due to the detection of a marine biotoxin, paralytic shellfish poison (PSP) which can be deadly and cannot be removed by cooking. Each and every time you harvest, Everyone needs to check the marine biotoxin hotline at 1-800-562-5632 or go to the website of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife at www.doh.wa.gov/shellfishsafety.htm for more information.)

2017 Spring Newsletter

360.877.9350

Commissioners:

Terry Brazil – Lake Cushman

Mike Petz – Hoodsport

John O’Laughlin – Hoodsport

The Public Restrooms remain busy all winter and remain a challenge with MORE People using the facility, some with disappointing disregard for common sense and vandalism.

Grant funding will be pursued for a Fast EV Car Charging station to be installed on the East side of the Public Restrooms which will accommodate the Public with electric cars to re charge along the Highway 101 corridor. This is a clean energy partnership between the Port of Hoodsport, Hood Canal Grocery and Mason County PUD #1.

The Port of Hoodsport’s Marina, Dock and Waterfront Park will have flowers in the planters and flower baskets hanging along the Port beach once all threat of frost is gone.

The Port of Hoodsport, in partnership with the Mason County Disc Golf Association is developing a professional disc golf course at the Hoodsport Trail Park that values the natural aesthetics of the park and will attract both professional and amateur disc golfers. The course is designed and developed with Volunteer labor from the disc golf community who will maintain the quality and safety of the course throughout its life. The course will minimize interface with existing trails allowing hikers to also enjoy hiking the disc golf course. The Port is providing materials such as the disc baskets and T pads. When the course use increases beyond the current restroom capacity, a permanent vault restroom will be installed. The estimated playable completion will be summer of 2017. The
Port is currently planning to utilize a
flat 20 acres on the opposite side of State Rt 119 to create a Disc Golf Course that will be a Beginner, Senior and Children friendly disc golf course with a picnic area. The Vision and Design are currently in the works. This project may be
completed sometime in 2019.

“Overnight” moorage is available at the Port of Hoodsport’s Marina dock on a first come first served basis, there are no reservations, stays are limited to 24 hours, and the fee is $10. Per overnight stay. Be sure to check the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website for fishing & harvesting dates, times & warnings. (In 2015 The Washington State Dept of Health closed most of Hood Canal to recreational shellfish (oysters, clams, mussels) harvest. This was due to the detection of a marine biotoxin, paralytic shellfish poison (PSP) which can be deadly and cannot be removed by cooking. At the time of this newsletter only varnish clams are closed for harvest. Each and every time you harvest, everyone needs to check the marine biotoxin hotline at 1-800-562-5632 or go to the website of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife at www.doh.wa.gov/shellfishsafety.htm for more information.)

You may contact the Port of Hoodsport via email portmail@hctc.com or by phone (360)877-9350

2016 Fall Newsletter

360.877.9350

Commissioners:

Terry Brazil – Lake Cushman

Mike Petz – Hoodsport

John O’Laughlin – Hoodsport

The Port of Hoodsport’s Marina, Dock and Waterfront Park have been increasingly busy throughout the Summer and Fall of 2016. The Public enjoys many activities along the Hood Canal, coming to Hoodsport for Beach coming, Shellfish, Boating, Kayaking and Fishing. In late Summer, the Mason County Health Department posted signs along the waterfront warning the public not to collect shellfish along the Hoodsport beaches due to sources of pollution that could have contaminated shellfish.

The Public Restrooms remain a challenge with MORE People using the facility, some with disappointing disregard for common sense and vandalism. In an effort to keep up with summer and weekend demand, the Port has stepped up coverage cleaning restrooms twice per day and restocking supplies.

An EV Car Charging station will be installed on the East side of the Public Restrooms in October 2016 which will accommodate electric cars heading North and South on Highway 101. This is a clean energy partnership between the Port of Hoodsport, Hood Canal Grocery and Mason County PUD #1.

The Port of Hoodsport, in partnership with the Mason County Disc Golf Association is developing a professional disc golf course at the Hoodsport Trail Park that values the natural aesthetics of the park and will attract both professional and amateur disc golfers. The course is designed and developed with Volunteer labor from the disc golf community who will maintain the quality and safety of the course throughout its life. The course will minimize interface with existing trails allowing hikers to also enjoy hiking the disc golf course. The Port is providing materials such as the disc baskets and T pads. When the course use increases beyond the current restroom capacity, a permanent vault restroom will be installed. The estimated playable completion will be in the Summer of 2017. The
Port is currently planning to utilize a
flat 20 acres on the opposite side of State Rt 119 to create a Disc Golf Course that will be ADA compliant, Beginner, Senior and Children friendly disc golf course with a covered picnic area. The Vision and Design are currently in the works. This project may be
completed sometime in 2019.

“Overnight” moorage is available at the Port of Hoodsport’s Marina dock on a first come first served basis, there are no reservations, stays are limited to 24 hours, and the fee is $10. Per overnight stay. Be sure to check the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website for fishing & harvesting dates, times & warnings. (In 2015 The Washington State Dept of Health closed most of Hood Canal to recreational shellfish (oysters, clams, mussels) harvest. This was due to the detection of a marine biotoxin, paralytic shellfish poison (PSP) which can be deadly and cannot be removed by cooking. At the time of this newsletter only varnish clams are closed for harvest. Each and every time you harvest, everyone needs to check the marine biotoxin hotline at 1-800-562-5632 or go to the website of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife at www.doh.wa.gov/shellfishsafety.htm for more information.)

You can contact the Port of Hoodsport via email portmail@hctc.com or by phone (360)877-9350

Port of Hoodsport

2016 Spring Newsletter

360.877.9350

Commissioners:

Terry Brazil – Lake Cushman

Mike Petz – Potlatch

John O’Laughlin – Potlatch

The Port of Hoodsport’s Marina has been under construction over the winter when weather permitted with repairs and reinforcements to prolong the life of the Marina dock, slips and gangplank. In December of 2015 the Ports Waterfront Park hosted a lit Christmas tree structure at the Ports waterfront park. The tree structure was decorated by the Kiwanis. Hanging Flower Baskets and flowers have been ordered to accent the Ports Waterfront Park and will be planted & hung by May 2016.

The Public Restrooms continue to have high volume throughout the year.

The Hoodsport Trail Park has been open most of the winter and was closed only during stormy weather. A new parking area was created at the Upper end of the Trail Park in anticipation of the Championship Disc Golf Course which is still under development. This sport provides enhanced recreational activity for residents, guests and visitors. Partnered with Mason County Disc Golf Association, the Association designed a championship course that values the natural aesthetics of the park and will attract both professional and amateur disc golfers. It is being built mostly with volunteer labor from the disc golf community who will maintain the quality and safety of the course throughout its life. The course will minimize interface with existing trails allowing hikers to also enjoy hiking the disc golf course. The Port is providing materials such as the disc baskets and T pads. When the course use increases beyond the current restroom capacity, a permanent vault restroom will be installed. The estimated playable completion will be in the Summer of 2016.

“Overnight” moorage is available at the Port of Hoodsport’s Marina dock on a first come first served basis, there are no reservations, stays are limited to 24 hours, and the fee is $10. Per overnight stay.

“Shrimping” season on the Hood Canal (Marine Area 12) this year will be Open May 14, 18, 28 & 30, 2016, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. “Crabbing” season is currently CLOSED The season will start again this summer… Be sure to check the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website for dates, times & warnings.

(In 2015 The Washington State Dept of Health closed most of Hood Canal to recreational shellfish (oysters, clams, mussels) harvest. This was due to the detection of a marine biotoxin, paralytic shellfish poison (PSP) which can be deadly and cannot be removed by cooking. At the time of this newsletter only varnish clams are closed for harvest. Each and every time you harvest, everyone needs to check the marine biotoxin hotline at 1-800-562-5632 or go to the website of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife at www.doh.wa.gov/shellfishsafety.htm for more information.)

A town hall ‘Traffic and Pedestrian Safety’ meeting between the Public, the Port of Hoodsport and WSDOT in September 2015 resulted in The Port of Hoodsport partnering with WSDOT for grant money to purchase and install flashing crosswalk beacons and two vehicle speed feedback signs to be installed at both ends of Hoodsport in the summer of 2016.

You can contact the Port of Hoodsport via email portmail@hctc.com or by phone (360)877-9350

2015 Summer Newsletter

360.877.9350

Commissioners:

Terry Brazil – Lake Cushman

Mike Petz – Potlatch

John O’Laughlin – Potlatch

The Port of Hoodsport adopted a Resolution R15-01 at a Public Hearing prohibiting the discharge of ‘Fireworks’ by the general public on Port of Hoodsport properties. The Port of Hoodsport may grant permission to discharge fireworks on Port of Hoodsport property in support of future community events providing all safety measures and permitting are in place. The decision to deny permission to discharge fireworks by the general public on Port property was prompted in response to the Hoodsport Community Events Association’s decision NOT to have the 30^th Annual Celebrate Hoodsport Fireworks event this year. In the past 29 years, the Hoodsport Community Events Association sponsored the annual fireworks display in the town of Hoodsport. The fireworks display was an organized event with an approved WSDOT traffic plan, a professional insured, licensed and bonded pyrotechnics company was hired and the event was permitted by the County Fire Marshall. The Port of Hoodsport was listed as Additionally Insured on a Certificate of Liability with permission for usage of the Port of Hoodsport’s public dock and marina from which to discharge fireworks. The Port of Hoodsport’s role in the annual event was to provide a Clean and Safe environment at the Ports Dock & Marina and as a duty to its Public and was responsible for Public and Traffic Safety.

Recreational Crab Fishing on the Hood Canal will be OPEN early this year. The Hood Canal area is open at 6:00am on June 15, 2015. Once opened, crabbing will be open Thursdays through Mondays each week through Labor Day, September 7, 2015. Crabbing will be closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. For more details, go to the website of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.

The Washington State Dept of Health has closed most of Hood Canal to recreational shellfish (oysters, clams, mussels) harvest. This is due to the detection of a marine biotoxin, paralytic shellfish poison (PSP) which can be deadly and cannot be removed by cooking. Each and every time you harvest, everyone needs to check the marine biotoxin hotline at 1-800-562-5632 or go to www.doh.wa.gov/shellfishsafety.htm

The Port of Hoodsport’s current project is to install a disc golf course on unused portions of the Hoodsport Trail Park. This provides for enhanced recreational activity for residents, guests and visitors. Partnered with Mason County Disc Golf Association, the Association will design a professional quality course that values the natural aesthetics of the park. It will be built with mostly volunteer labor from the disc golf community who will maintain the quality and safety of the course. The course will minimize interface with existing trails which will allow hikers to enjoy hiking the disc golf course. The Port will provide materials such as the disc baskets, T pads and additional parking. When the course use increases beyond the current restroom capacity, a new restroom will be installed. The estimated playable completion will be in the Summer of 2016.

You can contact the Port of Hoodsport via email portmail@hctc.com or by phone (360)877-9350

‘2015 Spring Newsletter’

360.877.9350

Commissioners:

Terry Brazil – Lake Cushman

Mike Petz – Potlatch

John O’Laughlin – Potlatch

The Port of Hoodsport’s Marina had floats replaced under the North end of the dock and slips this last winter. It was apparent that part of the dock was noticeably sagging, and upon closer inspection three support floats were no longer in place and had been carried away in a winter storm. In December of 2014 the Ports Waterfront Park hosted a Christmas tree structure that was erected over the Maple tree planter by the Port and decorated by the Kiwanis for the Christmas tree lighting event that was held on the first Sunday of December. Flower Baskets and flowers have been ordered for the Ports Waterfront Park, they will be planted and hung as soon as they arrive and weather permits.

The Public Restrooms continue to have high volume throughout the year.

The Hoodsport Trail Park has been open most of the winter due to mild weather and was closed only during stormy weather. The parking area at the Trail Park is being expanded to accommodate increased hiking activity. New Trail head signs are being constructed and will be installed by summer of 2015.

The Port of Hoodsport will be holding a public hearing to discuss future plans for the Hoodsport Trail Park .

The date and time of the Public meeting is expected to be announced sometime in May or June 2015 as soon as details are worked out.

The Port Commission will have a full presentation and will welcome discussion and input from the Public addressing thoughts, questions and concerns about the proposed plans.

“Overnight” moorage is available at the Port of Hoodsport’s Marina dock on a first come first served basis, there are no reservations, stays are limited to 24 hours, and the fee is $10. Per overnight stay.

Shrimping season on the Hood Canal (Marine Area 12) this year will be Open May 2, 9, 11 & 13, 2015, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Crabbing season is currently CLOSED The season will start again this summer… Be sure to check the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website for dates and times.

‘2014 Fall Newsletter’

360.877.9350

Commissioners:

Terry Brazil – Lake Cushman

Mike Petz – Potlatch

John O’Laughlin – Potlatch

The Port of Hoodsport Marina had extensive repairs done to the infrastructure under the dock and slips this last summer due to damage done by a cement boat in a winter storm, floats were also replaced under the dock and fire lines repaired. The Port’s Waterfront Park and dock were heavily used all summer by the Public while fishing, shrimping, crabbing, fishing, drumming & picnicking.

The Hoodsport Trail Park had more hikers than ever and was extremely busy last summer. Dangerous trees were taken out, bridges repaired, trails cleared, parking area widened and the outhouse & kiosk was updated.

On Saturday July 5, 2014 the Hoodsport Community Events Assn. sponsored the 29^th annual Celebrate Hoodsport Fireworks event. This event draws thousands of people to the Hoodsport and Lake Cushman areas over the Independence Day week end. The Port of Hoodsport provided a clean and safe environment at the Port Marina for the pyrotechnics crew to set off the fireworks. State Troopers, Sheriffs, a Tow Truck and additional Sani Cans were all part of the Ports concern for Public Safety and Traffic Control. Parking areas in the immediate vicinity of the fireworks were reserved for the local Hoodsport Fire department and Medic One.

Port Commissioners were in attendance of several business meetings in support of the Chamber of Commerce in their effort to support a good working relationship encompassing local businesses in North Mason County creating synergy, promoting tourism and a healthy economy.

Commissioner Petz is heavily involved in supporting the local Food Bank. Commissioner Petz and O’Laughlin along with the Kiwanis Club donate time growing vegetables to help support the local Food Bank.

The Port of Hoodsport is seeking ways to create revenue streams so that constantly rising maintenance costs and future projects do not become a tax burden to the land owners in the Port district.

The Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will be held at the IGA on a Sunday in December. The Lady Alderbrook cruise ship motored by Captain Cindy Sund will bring Carolers’ who will disembark at the Port of Hoodsport Marina dock to join the festivities. The dock will be clean and lined with Christmas lights.

“Overnight” moorage is available at the Port of Hoodsport’s Marina dock on a first come first served basis, there are no reservations, stays are limited to 24 hours, and the fee is $10. Per overnight stay. Crabbing season this year has been extended through December 2014.

2014 SPRING NEWSLETTER

Commissioners:

Terry Brazil – Lake Cushman

Mike Petz – Potlatch

John O’Laughlin – Potlatch

The Port of Hoodsport accepted a request from the Hoodsport Community Events Assn for usage of the Port of Hoodsport Marina Dock for the 29^th Annual Celebrate Hoodsport 4^th of July fireworks Celebration. This event draws thousands of people to Hoodsport and Lake Cushman areas over the Independence Day week end. The fireworks display will be held on Saturday July 5^th, fireworks will be set off when it is dark around between 9:30 and 10pm. The Public and Boaters will be able to use the Port dock until 5pm that Saturday at which point the dock must be cleared for the pyrotechnics company to set up their fireworks display. The Port of Hoodsport provides a clean and safe environment at the Port Marina and as a duty to its public is responsible for Public and Traffic Safety. The Port will provide Traffic control with WA State Troopers directing traffic at Highway 101 and State Route 119. Mason County Sheriff Deputies will be on foot patrol from the Port Marina to State Route 119, the Hoodsport Fire Department & Medic One will be parked in front of the Port Marina in addition a Tow Truck will be available.

The Port of Hoodsport Public dock is available for the Public’s use. There are Six 16′ boat slips available on a first come first served basis. There is a 24 hour limit and overnight moorage is available at $10.00 per/slip per/night.

Shrimping Season 2014 ~May 3, 7,10 & 21

Crabbing Season 2014 ~ Summer Dates Not yet posted

The Hoodsport Trail Park recently had some ‘dangerous’ trees fall over the trails and in the parking lot, a few leaning trees that posed a threat were removed so the Trail Park could be re opened for the Publics use and enjoyment. The Port Commissioners approved a ‘Grant’ to be provided to the WSU Mason County 4H Forestry program. The Grant is to provide educational opportunities for youth involving educational experiences in the field of natural resources. The 4H crew will be working at the Hoodsport Trail Park providing heavy duty trail maintenance, will better define the trails with markers and possibly start a new trail spur if time permits in the summer of 2014.

Since the Port of Hoodsport installed the New Public Restrooms, there has been a significant positive effect on the businesses in Hoodsport.

The Port of Hoodsport is in the process of revising and updating their Comprehensive Master Plan. The Port is assembling a Survey that will be distributed to Hoodsport and Lake Cushman residents posing the question of what the public opinion is for future projects for the Port that fall within the scope of the Ports parameters of responsibilities and limited budget.

The Port of Hoodsport has joined the Mason County Chamber of Commerce in an effort to promote tourism. The Visitors center located in Hoodsport served 13,500 tourists in 2013 and the website www.explorehoodcanal.com which is hosted by the Chamber had 67,000 hits last year. The Port of Hoodsport expects a very busy summer and will facilitate the local public and tourists at the Port of Hoodsport Marina/Dock, the Hoodsport Trail Park and the Public Restrooms.

2014 SPRING NEWSLETTER

Commissioners:

Terry Brazil – Lake Cushman

Mike Petz – Potlatch

John O’Laughlin – Potlatch

The Port of Hoodsport accepted a request from the Hoodsport Community Events Assn for usage of the Port of Hoodsport Marina Dock for the 29^th Annual Celebrate Hoodsport 4^th of July fireworks Celebration. This event draws thousands of people to Hoodsport and Lake Cushman areas over the Independence Day week end. The fireworks display will be held on Saturday July 5^th, fireworks will be set off when it is dark around between 9:30 and 10pm. The Public and Boaters will be able to use the Port dock until 5pm that Saturday at which point the dock must be cleared for the pyrotechnics company to set up their fireworks display. The Port of Hoodsport provides a clean and safe environment at the Port Marina and as a duty to its public is responsible for Public and Traffic Safety. The Port will provide Traffic control with WA State Troopers directing traffic at Highway 101 and State Route 119. Mason County Sheriff Deputies will be on foot patrol from the Port Marina to State Route 119, the Hoodsport Fire Department & Medic One will be parked in front of the Port Marina in addition a Tow Truck will be available.

The Port of Hoodsport Public dock is available for the Public’s use. There are Six 16′ boat slips available on a first come first served basis. There is a 24 hour limit and overnight moorage is available at $10.00 per/slip per/night.

Shrimping Season 2014 ~May 3, 7,10 & 21

Crabbing Season 2014 ~ Summer Dates Not yet posted

The Hoodsport Trail Park recently had some ‘dangerous’ trees fall over the trails and in the parking lot, a few leaning trees that posed a threat were removed so the Trail Park could be re opened for the Publics use and enjoyment. The Port Commissioners approved a ‘Grant’ to be provided to the WSU Mason County 4H Forestry program. The Grant is to provide educational opportunities for youth involving educational experiences in the field of natural resources. The 4H crew will be working at the Hoodsport Trail Park providing heavy duty trail maintenance, will better define the trails with markers and possibly start a new trail spur if time permits in the summer of 2014.

Since the Port of Hoodsport installed the New Public Restrooms, there has been a significant positive effect on the businesses in Hoodsport.

The Port of Hoodsport is in the process of revising and updating their Comprehensive Master Plan. The Port is assembling a Survey that will be distributed to Hoodsport and Lake Cushman residents posing the question of what the public opinion is for future projects for the Port that fall within the scope of the Ports parameters of responsibilities and limited budget.

The Port of Hoodsport has joined the Mason County Chamber of Commerce in an effort to promote tourism. The Visitors center located in Hoodsport served 13,500 tourists in 2013 and the website www.explorehoodcanal.com which is hosted by the Chamber had 67,000 hits last year. The Port of Hoodsport expects a very busy summer and will facilitate the local public and tourists at the Port of Hoodsport Marina/Dock, the Hoodsport Trail Park and the Public Restrooms.