Category Overview
Washington is famous for its gorgeous and abundant waterways, from the Salish Sea to the Nisqually River, but many communities lack open public beaches and waterfronts where everyone can enjoy picnicking, swimming, paddling, boating, and angling. Water Access projects fund public shoreline access, boat launches, and fishing docks to create more opportunities for water recreation.
Project Highlights
This project involves the purchase & protection of approximately 900 lineal feet of shoreline along the Yakima River. Currently owned by DOT, this flood plain property is one of few publicly owned parcels adjacent to the Yakima River in this area. Acquisition of this property would provide the opportunity to create an “unimproved” boat & raft “take out” about 3 miles above Ellensburg’s diversion dam by providing a take out for watercraft launched upstream. Watercraft must currently portage around the dam or attempt to negotiate the drop which can be dangerous under some flow conditions. An unimproved ramp & small graveled parking area at this site would provide additional river recreation opportunity while ensuring the protection of the riparian area. This property would also provide foot access for recreational fishing & access to a stream reach that is now entirely private.