6/24/2024
Douglas County, OR. – Official Release: The Douglas County Parks Department would like to provide an update on the temporary closure of the Windy Cove Crab and Fishing Dock, located at 936 Salmon Harbor Drive in Winchester Bay, Oregon.
Last week, a required joint permit application was successfully completed and submitted to the State of Oregon Department of State Lands (ODSL). This marks a critical step forward in our efforts to repair the crab dock to maintain our community’s recreational facilities. The submitted application will be posted to ODSL’s website in early July for a mandatory 30-day public comment period. This review period allows for community input and ensures transparency in the permitting process. We anticipate receiving an approved permit in August, contingent upon the successful completion of the review period, which could be delayed based on any potential issues that might come out of the review.
Construction and engineering plans are on track to be finalized by June 25. However, we must wait for the permit issuance to determine if there are any new terms and conditions that will be imposed on the project based on public comments. These terms and conditions, if any, will be carefully reviewed and incorporated into the project scope of work as necessary. Once the terms of the permit are known, we will proceed with drafting a bid prospectus to solicit a vendor to facilitate the necessary dock repairs. This process will involve a Request for Bids (RFB) procurement process, which will add some additional time to our timeline.
Considering the necessary steps and potential adjustments, our best-case scenario is to have the project out for bid and awarded by mid-August. Depending on contractor availability, we hope to begin the dock repairs in late August, however, it is more likely that the work will begin sometime in September. We understand that the Windy Cove Crab and Fishing Dock is a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. During the closure, we recommend Dock 9 near the west boat launch in Salmon Harbor for crabbing without a boat. Additionally, some fishermen have reported success using fishing pole crab traps from the jetties and riverbanks. A video of the update featuring our Douglas County Parks Director Mark Wall, can be found on the Douglas County Government website at: https://video.ibm.com/recorded/133738243.
Public safety remains our top priority. The Windy Cove Crab and Fishing Dock will remain closed until repairs are completed and the dock is no longer deemed unsafe and hazardous for public use. The surrounding parking lot, day-use area, and beach access at Windy Cove County Park remain open. We ask for the community’s cooperation in respecting the closure and staying off the dock until it is officially reopened. We appreciate the community’s patience and understanding as we navigate these procedural requirements to ensure a thorough and compliant repair process. The Douglas County Parks Department remains committed to providing safe and enjoyable recreational facilities for all residents and visitors.
Updates will be released monthly until repairs are finalized and a public notice will be issued once the dock is safe and ready for use again.
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