HomeMy WebLinkAboutres2024-004• Whatcom County COUNTY COURTHOUSE
311 Grand Avenue, Ste #105
Bellingham, WA 98225-4038
(360) 778-5010
Agenda Bill Report
File Number: AB2024-032
File ID: AB2024-032 Version: 1 Status: Approved
File Created: 12/21/2023 Entered by: LClark@co.whatcom.wa.us
Department: Planning and File Type: Resolution Requiring a Public Hearing
Development Services
Department
Assigned to: Council Final Action: 01/23/2024
Agenda Date: 01/23/2024 Enactment#: RES 2024-004
Related Files:
Primary Contact Email: lclark@whatcomcounty.us
TITLE FOR AGENDA ITEM:
Resolution adopting the 2024 Comprehensive Parks, Recreation and Open Space (CPROS) Plan
SUMMARY STATEMENT OR LEGAL NOTICE LANGUAGE:
Adoption of the 2024 Comprehensive Parks, Recreation, and Open Space plan (CPROS). This Plan
guides the County and Whatcom County Parks and Recreation (WCPR) in addressing future park,
trail, and recreation needs of the community and progress toward achieveing the mission of the
Department. It is also prepared in part as a requirement to retain eligibility for certain funding programs
by the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO).
HISTORY OF LEGISLATIVE FILE
Date: Acting Body:
Action: Sent To:
01/09/2024 Council
INTRODUCED FOR PUBLIC Council
HEARING
Aye:
7 Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay:
0
01/23/2024 Council
APPROVED
Aye:
6 Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay:
0
emp Absent:
1 Elenbaas
Whatcom County
Page 1 Printed on 112612024
Agenda Bill Report Continued (AB2014-031)
Attachments: Staff Memo, Staff Report, Proposed Resolution, 2024 CPROS Plan, Staff Memo Describing the
CPROS Plan Scrivener Errors, 2024 CPROS Plan Corrections of Scriverner Errors Highlighted after
the 1.23.2024 Council Meeting, Approved 2024 CPROS Plan Clean with Corrections, Public
Hearing Sign In Sheet for 1.23.2024
Whatcom County Page 2 Printed on 112612024
PROPOSED BY:
INTRODUCED: 1/09/2024
RESOLUTION NO. 2024-004
RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE 2024 COMPREHENSIVE PARKS, RECREATION AND OPEN
SPACE PLAN
WHEREAS, the Whatcom County Parks & Recreation Department has requested the
adoption of the updated 2024 Whatcom County Comprehensive Parks, Recreation and Open
Space Plan; and
WHEREAS, the public, agencies and others participated in the numerous meetings,
surveys and discussions pertaining to the development of the plan; and
WHEREAS, The Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office requires Whatcom
County to have a qualified Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan pursuant to Manual 2;
Planning Guidelines dated July 2023 to maintain eligibility for certain grant programs; and
WHEREAS, the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office's timelines and
update of the Comprehensive Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan do not coincide with the
timelines of the County's Comprehensive Plan update; and
WHEREAS, THE Growth Management Act does not require that the Washington State
Recreation and Conservation Office's planning requirement be integrated into the County's
Comprehensive Plan or Growth Management Act; and
WHEREAS, a Determination of Non -Significance was issued by the SEPA Official on
November 9, 2023 (no. SEPA2023-00089);
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Whatcom County Council that:
1. The Whatcom County Comprehensive Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan is
hereby adopted as a departmental planning document for the Parks & Recreation
Department.
Page l
2, This plan will be used to provide guidance and direction to the Parks & Recreation
Department in capital development and planning efforts.
3. The plan will be used to assist in informing the parks, trails and open space
elements of the County's Comprehensive Plan.
4. The plan will assist the Parks & Recreation Department in providing a basis for
calculating levels of service, programming and fees.
5. Adoption of the plan will maintain eligibility for grant funding through the
Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office.
6. This plan will provide direction to the County for recreation and open space
planning through the year 2029.
APPROVED this 23rd day of January , 2024.
®®���qq�``FSBryd6ilfPf�s�d
WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL
4T -EST'
1),ana`Browt�-Davts;;'Cl6rk of the Council
APPROVED b5°T0.,FORM "
/s/Royce Buckingham approved via email on 1/5/2024/MR
Royce Buckingham, Civil Deputy Prosecutor
Page 2
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This plan is the result of input and collaboration of many individuals. Whatcom County Parks is thankful to all of Whatcom
County residents that participated and provided valuable input through online surveys, meetings and interviews. We are
especially grateful to the Parks Commission for their tireless dedication and commitment to providing thoughtful input and
counsel addressing increasingly complex issues facing the department.
Whatcom County Council
Kaylee Galloway, District 1
Todd Donovan, District 2
Tyler Byrd, District 3
Mark Stremler, District 4
Ben Elenbaas, District 5
Barry Buchanan, At -Large — Position A
Jon Scanlon, At -Large — Position B
Whatcom Parks & Recreation
Commission
Sonja Max, Chair
Kristen Fagan, District 1
Geoff Klise, District 2
Franklin Boteler, District 3
Carl Weimer, District 4
Sheli Moore, District 5
Joseph Hashmall, At -Large
Whatcom County Executive
Satpal Singh Sidhu, BSc, BSEE, MBA,
Fulbright Scholar
References
Whatcom County Parks & Recreation Department
Administration
Bennett Knox, Director
Christ Thomsen, Parks Operations Manager
Rod Lamb, Design & Development Manager
Dave Bramer, Parks Project Manager
Shannon Batdorf, Administrative Supervisor
Kim Burke, Accountant I
Kristin Lunderville, Clerk IV
Elizabeth Kruse, Clerk IV
Park Maintenance
Brandon Stolzenburg, Maintenance / Construction Supervisor
Mike Barnes, Outside Maintenance Coordinator
Sean Duling, Repair Maintenance III
Shawn Fisk, Repair Maintenance III
Greed Gaines, Repair Maintenance III
Rick Jacoby, Repair Maintenance III
David Ingram, Repair Maintenance III
Drew Flathers, Maintenance Worker II
Parks
Asa Deane, Parks Supervisor
Karin Beringer, Park Ranger
Kaitlyn Boyd, Park Attendant
Tom Chisholm, Lead Park Ranger / South Region
Iver Jackson, Park Ranger
Jill Jacoby, Lead Park Ranger / West Region
Daniel Kaufman, Park Ranger
Tanner Krysinski, Park Attendant
Kevin Nansel, Park Ranger
Ted Sellers, Lead Park Ranger / East Region
Clayton Young, Park Attendant
Planning documents used to inform the 2024 CPROS Update (as amended)
Whatcom County Pedestrian and Bicycle Plan - December 2010
Preserving a Way of Life- A Natural Heritage Plan for Whatcom County - June 1991
Whatcom County Comprehensive Park and Recreation Open Space Plan —August 1991
Whatcom County Comprehensive Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan —April 2008
Whatcom County Comprehensive Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan —January 2016
Washington State Recreation and Conservation Plan —January 2023
Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan — August 9, 2016 (Updated June 2023)
Whatcom County Trail Plan (revised) —January 1975
Chuckanut Mountain Trails Master Plan —June 1996
Lake Whatcom Management Program 2020-2024 Work Plan
Lookout Mountain Forest Preserve and Lake Whatcom Park Recreational Trail Plan (2016)
Economic Contribution of Outdoor Recreation to Whatcom County 2015, Earth Economics
Tribal Acknowledgement
We acknowledge that the lands and waterways described
in this document are part of the ancestral homelands of
the Coast Salish People who have lived in the Salish Basin,
throughout the San Juan Islands and the North Cascades
watershed, from time immemorial. We want to express our
deepest respect and gratitude for our indigenous neighbors,
the Lummi Nation and Nooksack Tribe, for their enduring
care and protection of our shared lands and waterways.
Acronyms
ADA —Americans with Disabilities Act
ATV —All-terrain Vehicle
DOE — Washingtons State Department of Ecology
DNR — Washington State Department of Natural
Resources
CIP —Capital Improvement Plan
COB —City of Bellingham
CPROS —Comprehensive Parks, Recreation and Open
Space Plan
GMA —Growth Management Act
LOS — Level of Service
NIVIFS — National Marine Fisheries Service
NPS —National Park Service
ORV — Off -road Recreational Vehicle
RCO — Washington State Recreation and Conservation
Office
RCW — Revised Code of Washington
SR —State Route
USFS — United States Forest Service
WAC —Washington Administrative Code
WCC — Whatcom County Code
WCCP — Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan
WDFW — Washington State Department of Fish &
Wildlife
WCPR — Whatcom County Parks & Recreation
WLT— Whatcom Land Trust
WSDOT —Washington State Department of
Transportation
WSP —Washington State Parks
Whatcom County Parks & Recreation
7rd-le Of Contents
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
UAT41091011 1l
1.
INTRODUCTION................................................................................................................1
a. Background Context
b. Parks' Vision for the Future
c. Plan Organization
2.
INVENTORY.......................................................................................................................5
a. Description of the planning area
b. Park Classifications
c. Organizational Structure
d. Existing Park and Open Space Inventory
e. Wildlife and Critical Habitat Conservation
3.
DEMAND AND NEED ANALYSIS.......................................................................................23
a. Population and Demographics
b. Park Visitation
c. Level of Service
d. Public Survey and Outreach
e. State and Regional Recreational Trends
4.
GOALS AND OBJECTIVES.................................................................................................31
a. Comprehensive Planning
b. CPROS Goals and Objectives
5.
RECOMMENDATIONS AND IMPLEMENTATION...............................................................41
a. Projects Completed since 2016 CPROS Plan Approval
b. Needs and Recommendations
c. Funding Sources
d. Strategic Partnerships
6.
PLAN ADOPTION.............................................................................................................49
APPENDIX
A. Park Maps
B. Whatcom County Parks & Recreation On -Line Survey and Results
C. Master Capital Improvements List
D. Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan — Goals and Policies related to Parks & Recreation
A. Background Context RCO Required Planning Elements
Whatcom County residents take great pride in their parks
and recreation facilities. The Community has supported a
strong parks and recreation system in many ways including
by providing financial support, voicing suggestions for
improvements, and volunteering in support of park
improvements, programming, and oversight.
The Whatcom County Parks (WCPR) system of parks, trails,
preserves, and community facilities provide residents
with a wide spectrum of recreational opportunities and
places to maintain healthy active life styles. They play
an important role in the social life of the community
providing places for the community to come together for
events, family gatherings, and the creation of memories.
Parks are critically important community assets that can,
provided equitable access, contribute substantially to
the socio-emotional and physical well-being of all county
residents. Parks also provide significant economic benefits
through tourism and retail sales, particularly in the rural
segments of the County. In Whatcom County, recreation
expenditures annually amount to $705 million in spending.
Recreation supports 279 businesses employing 3,728
persons with $508 million in revenues. County residents
spend an average of 78 days a year recreating compared
to the state average of 59 days annually (Source: 2015
Economic Contribution of Outdoor Recreation to Whatcom
County, Earth Economics). Parks also play an important
role in preserving the heritage, culture and history of the
county through the preservation of historical sites and
provide numerous environmental benefits protecting
critical habitats and natural processes.
Purpose of the Plan
This Comprehensive Parks, Recreation and Open Space
plan (CPROS) is prepared in part as requirement by the
Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office
to retain eligibility for certain funding programs. The
document also guides the County and WCPR in addressing
future needs of the community and progress towards
achieving the mission of the Department. This plan
works together with and is informed by other planning
documents including the Whatcom County Comprehensive
Plan (WCCP), Whatcom County 6-year and 20-year Capital
Improvement Plans, the 2016 Comprehensive Parks,
Recreation and Open Space Plan, various trails and park
master plans and the County's Natural Heritage Plan.
Goals and objectives
Page 31
Inventory
Page 5
Public Involvement
Page 27
Demand and need analysis
Page 23
Capital Improvement program
Page 43
Plan adoption
Page 49
Planning Process
The planning process used in this document encompassed
a) review of historical plans and data, b) public
participation and outreach, c) an assessment of existing
facilities and lands and, d) a review of current goals,
objectives and policies. Additional input to inform the
plan was received from the Whatcom County Parks
& Recreation Commission; a seven -member advisory
committee; Whatcom County Pedestrian and Bicycle
Committee; Whatcom County Planning Commission; Parks
& Recreation Staff; park districts and agencies; community
partners and stakeholders, and the general public from
participation in park planning initiatives and daily contacts
with departmental staff.
This plan relies upon the 2016 Comprehensive Parks,
Recreation and Open Space Plan and should be considered
an update of that plan. Parks & Recreation staff managed
the planning process and compiled the planning
document.
B. Parks' Vision for the Future
Our Mission and Vision
The Whatcom County Parks & Recreation Department
serves to enrich the quality of life for the community and
preserve the natural and cultural heritage of the County
through the provision of outstanding parks, trails, open
space, natural areas, recreational activities and senior
services.
Our vision is a WCPR department that serves the
recreation and conservation needs of our growing and
increasingly diverse community commensurate with the
excellence inherent in Whatcom County's natural and
cultural heritage.
To effectively implement our mission and realize our vision
for the future, our Department has outlined the following
Core Departmental Values, the Code of Ethics that we
follow, and the general Principles guiding our work.
Our Core Values — How we work together
Our core values —trust in and respect for each other as
individuals; support and compassion for each other as
co-workers; responsiveness to each other as internal
customers; active listening and intentional and transparent
communication; awareness and understanding of each
other's important roles; meaningful collaboration;
a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion;
professional courtesy; and excellence in our work — provide
a common framework for our actions as team members
and our collaborative work to fulfill our mission and our
vision.
Our Ethics Code — How we serve
Responsibility to Those We Serve
1. Respect people as individuals and serves all in an
equitable and fair manner.
2. Maintains professionalism at all times.
Responsibility to Community
Strives to improve life within the community.
Recognizes community needs and trends and
manages positive change.
Responsibility to Self
1. Maintains relationships with associates based on
mutual integrity, trust and respect.
2. Clearly separates professional from personal points of
view.
To strive for personal and professional excellence
Responsibility to Employer
Cooperatively works within the structure of the
department.
2. Assists in promoting the department to the
community.
3. Respects policies and procedures in a professional
manner.
4. Initiates positive change.
Responsibility to Profession
1. Recognizes and promotes the values of the Parks and
Recreation profession.
2. Adheres to standards of personal conduct acceptable
for professionals in the community.
3. Maintains professionalism at all internal and external
functions.
Our Guiding Principles -- What we strive to achieve
1. Focus on long-term fiscally -sustainable departmental
growth that is responsive to the public and taxpayers,
is based upon and informed by open and transparent
communication with the public, and prioritizes care and
enhancement of existing facilities.
2. Foster, leverage, and enhance partnerships in the
community (e.g., volunteer, inter -agency, co -management)
that create opportunities for park users, including those
around education, resource management, arts, and
community events.
3. Be responsive to the needs of the entire Whatcom
County community including residents of all ages, abilities,
languages, genders, cultures, and income levels.
4. Proactively plan and manage park assets and
infrastructure to support a diverse and varied park system
that is safe and accessible and balances the community's
recreational, social, and environmental needs.
5. Maintain a high departmental focus on conservation
and preservation of the natural cultural and historic
resources under our care; undertake activities that make
these spaces more resilient in the face of climate change;
create opportunities for the public to learn about and
interact with these spaces and resources.
6. Support park enhancements that enhance the role
of the open space, parks, and facilities under our care
connecting our community and which promote active
healthy lifestyles that improve the physical, mental, and
emotional health of all Whatcom County residents.
7. Improve public awareness of the department and
departmental offerings and facilitate intentional public
outreach that is responsive to community inquiries,
actively solicits community input, and builds community
trust.
C. Plan Organization
This CPROS is organized into six chapters and 4 appendices,
and are described as follows:
Chapter 1 — Introduction
Provides an overview of the purpose of the CPROS,
describes the planning process, defines the mission,
vision, and values. Department code of Ethics follows and
identifies how staff relate to each other, our facilities, our
community and ourselves. This chapter highlights guiding
principals of the department that direct and target our
efforts to ensure effective delivery of recreational services
to the community.
Chapter 2 — Inventory
Provides information about the regional context, defines
various park classifications and their features. Additionally,
this chapter provides an overview of the department's
organizational structure, and an inventory of existing
park areas and facilities. The chapter concludes with a
description of the various sensitive wildlife and critical
habitat areas that are characteristic of Whatcom County.
Chapter 3 — Demand and Need Analysis
Provides information about community demographics,
population growth. Summarizes community input and
comments collected from various community outreach
efforts, and provides a description of currently adopted
Level of Service metrics adopted by Whatcom County.
Chapter 4 — Goals and Objectives
Presents goals and objectives that will guide department
strategic priorities, initiatives and improvements to
WCPR facilities, operations and service delivery to the
community.
Chapter 5 — Recommendations and Implementation
Includes recommendations or park specific projects,
land acquisition, trail and pathway improvements, and
maintenance and operations.
Chapter 6 — Adoption
Resolution of the County Council formally adopting the
Whatcom County Comprehensive Parks, Recreation, and
Open Space Plan as a departmental planning document.
r
This chapter presents information on Whatcom County's
regional context, provides descriptions of the park
classifications used to manage and operate recreational
facilities, and an inventory of departmental recreational
resources. This exploration of project area and associated
recreational resources can be useful in identifying potential
service delivery gaps and areas in need of improvement.
A. Description of the Planning Area
Whatcom County is the northernmost county in the state
of Washington. Whatcom County contains 2,107 square
miles that border on British Columbia, Canada to the
north, Okanogan County to the east, Skagit County to
the south, and the Strait of Georgia to the west. Much
of the county is mountainous and part of the Mt. Baker
Snoqualmie National Forest and North Cascades National
Park. Fifty miles east of Bellingham lies the highest peak in
the North Cascade mountain range, Mount Baker (10,778
feet), an ice -clad volcano, providing the state's longest
ski season and world's greatest recorded snowfall in one
season 1,140 inches. There are two inhabited islands,
Lummi and Eliza, and one exclave, Point Roberts, in
Whatcom County.
Whatcom County has one national park (North Cascades);
two national recreational areas (Ross Lake and Mt. Baker);
two national forests (Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie, Okanogan);
three national wilderness areas (Mt. Baker, Pasayten, Noisy
Diobsud); two national scenic trails (Pacific Crest, Pacific
Northwest) and two scenic byways (Mt. Baker Highway
and Chuckanut Drive); three State Parks (Larrabee, Birch
Bay, Peace Arch); local municipal parks in the cities of
Bellingham, Everson, Lynden, Ferndale, Nooksack, Sumas
and Blaine; parks and marinas operated by the Port
of Bellingham; and four park and recreation districts
(Blaine -Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2, Columbia
Valley Parks & Recreation District, Point Roberts Park and
Recreation District 1, Lynden Regional Parks & Recreation
District). Recreational activities also occur on Department
of Natural Resources State Forest Trust lands, and
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife lands. While
Whatcom County has a considerable amount of federal
recreational land, limited accessibility and distance to
these lands is a challenge for most residents. The majority
of recreational use by county residents occurs in local and
county parks and recreational facilities.
Other recreational opportunities within the County
for residents include school district properties, private
developments and parks, commercial businesses such as
golf courses, riding academies, water parks, ranges, and
those provided through partnerships on private lands such
as the recreational easement secured by COB and WLT that
covers the 2,182-acre Galbraith Mountain mountain biking
area.
B. Park Classifications
Whatcom County Parks & Recreation uses a classification
system based on size, function and service area to
categorize various park and recreational facilities. These
classifications aid in management and can facilitate
comparison against state and national databases such
as the National Recreation and Park Association's Park
Metrics. Park classifications can also change over time as
use of a facility evolves, plans are modified or an area is
annexed or incorporated into a UGA. The following are
park classifications used by WCPR.
Park: Includes both developed and undeveloped properties
such as preserves, open space, regional parks, resource
and natural areas, greenways, trails, water access sites,
historical sites, athletic fields, beaches and forests. Park
definition is inclusive of all parklands.
Neighborhood Park: Neighborhood parks primarily
serve the immediate neighborhood and are usually
located within one quarter mile walking distance of the
residents. These parks are generally smaller facilities
with limited amenities and parking. Neighborhood parks
are usually provided by the Cities and private residential
developments. Ted Edwards and Redwood Parks are
examples.
Community Park: Community Parks provide space for
community activities and usually provide activities for both
children and adults. These parks primarily serve a single
community with a typical service area of less than 5 miles.
They often contain both passive and active recreational
components such as picnic areas, playgrounds, shelters,
playfields and sport courts. These parks are often located
in more urbanized incorporated areas or may serve an
entire rural community. Josh VanderYacht Memorial Park is
an example of a small rural Community Park.
Regional Park: Regional Parks are typically larger
destination parks focused upon a unique feature or
amenities that attract users from a broad service area.
A service area of 25 miles is often used for planning
purposes. Regional parks serve all county residents and
often attract visitors from outside the county. These parks
can have significant natural, cultural, or historical features
along with multiple amenities such as boat launches,
campgrounds, beaches, equestrian activities and event
areas. A regional park may also serve or have elements of a
community park and preserve/open space areas. Examples
include Hovander Homestead and Silver Lake Parks.
Preserve/Open Space: Preserves and Open Space areas
focus on preserving significant natural areas, wilderness,
wildlife habitats, scenic views and watersheds. Preserves
and Open Spaces don't have a service area component.
These areas are intended to be maintained in a natural
state and are managed to preserve the natural attributes
of the site. Each site is individually evaluated for public
access opportunities. Developed amenities are often
limited to only those that are necessary to support the
target level of public access to the property. Examples of
preserves include the Stimpson Family Nature Reserve and
Canyon Lake Community Forest.
Water Access Site: The primary purpose of water access
sites is to provide public access to shorelines and lakes.
Amenities are often limited and sites are used for a variety
of purposes including swimming, beachcombing, shore
fishing, launching, and shell fishing. Examples of water
access sites include the Jackson Road Beach Access in Birch
Bay and the Nugent's Corner River Access. These sites do
not have a service area.
Special Use Areas: Special use areas have one dominant
specialized use activity and serve a targeted user group
or population. They may be located anywhere within
the County and need to be of adequate size and have
specialized amenities to properly serve their intended use.
Examples include the Plantation Rifle Range, Northwest
Soccer Fields and the East Whatcom Regional Resource
Center.
Green ways/Trails: These are undeveloped open space
natural areas, agricultural lands, recreational lands
and wildlife corridors. These greenways often serve as
linear parks and may have multi -use trails. The trails
can serve both recreation and transportation purposes
and are usually planned as part of a community trails
and greenway system linking bicycle routes, parks and
destinations within the community. Examples include the
Interurban and Bay Crest trails.
Distribution and Access
Based on GIS data, 99.9% of Whatcom County's population
is located within 25 miles of a regional park facility or trail.
This access is primarily by motorized vehicle. Hovander
Homestead Park and Semiahmoo Parks are linked by
community trails and WTA bus service is available to the
Lookout Mountain Forest Preserve and Stimpson Family
Nature Reserve. Work to provide alternative transportation
options for residents and visitors to County Park areas
through community trail systems and designated bicycle
routes and lanes is ongoing. As Whatcom County is
primarily a provider of regional park facility services,
community and neighborhood parks are not listed in
the service area for the County. However, those park
classifications for facilities that are managed by the WCPR
are shown on the service area map for reference.
C. Organizational Structure
The Whatcom County Parks & Recreation Department is
responsible for administration and oversight, planning,
operations, and maintenance of all assigned properties and
facilities. As shown by the organizational chart in Figure
2.1, the department is currently organized into three
divisions: Administrative Support, Design & Development,
and Operations. The Operations Division is subdivided into
three regional service areas to better facilitate operations
and provide staff coverage for all properties (see Figure
2.3).
In 2023, the Department had a staff of 28 full-time
employees and approximately 15,800 hours of part-time
extra help. It is expected that additional staff capacity may
be added to the department in 2024 to support facility
maintenance and address other capacity needs related to
other strategic priorities
Programming Elements
Due to budget reductions in 2008, the County significantly
reduced its capacity to directly deliver programs and
redirected efforts to providing venues for other community
providers to deliver similar services. The Parks &
Recreation Department provides programmed activities
at a number of park facilities through collaboration with
community partners. The department continues to directly
provide firearms safety and skill classes at the Plantation
Rifle Range.
Community partners currently offering public programming
within the parks system include:
• Whatcom Land Trust: Interpretive programs,
various locations;
• Audubon Society: Interpretive and birding
programs, various locations;
DIRECTOR
Bennett Knox
ADMINISTRATION
DESIGN &
DEVELOPMENT
OPERATIONS
ADMINISTRATIVE
PARKS DESIGN &DEVELOPMENT
MANAGER
LOJPERANSUPERVISOR
(Shannon Batdorf)
(Rod Lamb)
I SPECIAL PROTECTS
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(Kim Burke)
(Dave Bramer)
(Asa Deane)
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(Brandon Stolzenburg)
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Fig. 2.1: Whatcom County Parks & Recreation Organization Chart
• Drayton Harbor Maritime: Museum staffing and
programs at Semiahmoo Park;
• Master Gardener's Foundation: Programs and
demonstration gardens at Hovander Homestead
Park;
• Programming and classes at the Senior Activity
Centers are provided by contract through non-
profit organizations;
• Washington Trails Association: Volunteer trail
improvements events at various parks;
• Opportunity Council and Foothills Food Bank: Offer
multiple community support programming at the
East Whatcom Regional Resource Center; and
• Whatcom Million Trees.
D. Existing Park and Open Space Inventory
Whatcom County Parks & Recreation currently manages
or oversees nearly 16,500 acres of property comprised of
73 properties. These include parks, gardens, natural areas,
tidelands, beaches, historic buildings, special use areas and
undeveloped lands. Also included in this inventory are 75
miles of trail, campgrounds, boat launches, picnic areas,
day lodges, shelters and numerous other amenities.
The following is a partial inventory of lands and
facilities assigned to the department, see Table 2.1 for a
comprehensive list of WCPR properties.
Regional Park Inventory
Boy Horizon Park: 68.2-acre former air force radar base.
Site amenities include a playground, basketball and
pickleball courts, gymnasium, open fields, small picnic
area and connection to the Bay Crest Trail. Buildings are
leased to the Camp Horizon Foundation for operation of
Camp Horizon serving disabled adults and to the Blaine -
Birch Bay Parks & Recreation District 2 for community
recreational programming.
Chuckanut MountainlPine & Cedar Lake Access:
987.9-acres offorestland, hiking, equestrian and mountain
bike trails, 2 remote back country camp areas, boardwalk,
parking area and vault toilets. Site connects and adjoins
with City of Bellingham's Arroyo Park, Washington
Department of Fish and Wildlife Pine and Cedar Lakes and
Larrabee State Park.
Derning Eagle Horestead Pork: 33.0-acre park along a
channel of the Nooksack River. Improvements include
parking, picnic area and walking trail.
Dittrich Pork: 25.2 acres of undeveloped park land located
on Lake Samish. Site has three residences and is comprised
of fields, wetlands and wooded shoreline.
Hovander Homestead Park: 333.4-acres. Multi -use park
focused around a historic farmstead and Tenant Lake.
Improvements include a 2,000 square foot open picnic
shelter, picnic and event areas, demonstration gardens,
playground, domestic animal display, historic farm
buildings and equipment, historic home and furnishings,
agricultural fields, multi -use trails, observation tower,
boardwalk, interpretive center (currently closed),
restrooms, and boat launch. Site connects and adjoins
WDFW's Tennant Lake water access area.
Jensen Family Forest Park: 21.5-acres. Park land available
for public use through a public recreation easement
donated by the Jensen Family Trust. The facility has an
accessible %: mile walking trail, parking area and picnic
area.
Lake Whatcom Park 4,853.0-acres. Located on Smith
Creek and the east shore of Lake Whatcom. Amenities
include vault toilets, multi -use, hiking, mountain biking and
equestrian trails, parking areas and shore access.
Lighthouse Marine Park: 20.5-acres. A fully developed
park located on the southwest corner of Point Roberts, the
southernmost tip of the Tsawwassen peninsula. Day -use
improvements include boat launch, board walk and picnic
shelters, restrooms, playground, shower building, picnic
areas and shoreline trail. Overnight accommodations
include a 30-site campground plus 4 group campsites, and
1 Hike/Bike/Paddle only campsite.
Lily Point Marine Park 262.1-acres. A natural area
park containing the remnants of a salmon cannery.
Improvements include parking, restrooms, overlooks and
multi -use trails and shellfish beds.
Lookout Mountain Forest Preserve: 4,682.8-acres. A natural
themed park located on Lookout Mountain and jointly
owned with the City of Bellingham. Improvements include
hiking and mountain bike trails, restroom and parking area.
Maple Creek ('ark 73.1-acre forested park area. Adjoins
Maple Falls to Glacier segment of the Bay to Baker Trail.
Monument Park 6.9-acre park. Park contains US/Canadian
border monument and has a small parking area, walking
trail and beach access.
Sarnish Park: 30.6-acres fully developed park area on the
north shore of Lake Samish. Improvements include a day
lodge and restrooms, changing building, swim beach, small
playground, boat rentals, fishing dock, hiking trail and
picnic areas.
Semiahr000 Park 291.9-acres. Most of this park's acreage
is tidelands. Upland improvements include parking area,
trails, museum, restrooms, beach accesses, picnic areas
and a day lodge.
Silver Lake Park: 413.4-acres. Improvements include
6,000 square foot building housing a day lodge, offices,
restrooms concession area and kitchen, 6 cabins, docks,
boat launch, three campground areas with 123 sites in
total, restrooms, shower buildings, picnic areas and open
shelters, horse stables, swimming beach, playground, open
activity fields, and historic Gerdrum Home.
South Fork Park 603.0-acres. Park area and trailhead
with vault toilet, equestrian parking, and river access. The
property consists of three historic farmstead properties,
Galbraith Farm, Overby Farm, and Nessett Farm. Nesset
is of particular significance because several historic
structures remain on the property. Building stabilization
efforts in partnership with the Nesset Foundation.
Currently there is no developed trail access between the
main trailhead at Galbraith Farm and Overby and Nesset
to the south. WCPR is continuing to explore developing
trail access between the historic properties with DNR, and
Tribal representatives in addition to exploring alternate
property access points.
South Lake 01hotcorn: 79.5-acres. Undeveloped park
area with shore access on the southeast shore of Lake
Whatcom.
Squires Lake Park: 90.1 acres. This park is focused around
Squires Lake and includes walking trails, benches and
parking area. Jointly managed by Whatcom and Skagit
County Parks.
Sunset Farm Park: 69.5-acres. Park is programed for
equestrian use and includes riding ring and course along
with trails.
Other Recreational Resources and Properties:
Lands the Parks & Recreation Department leases to other
entities:
• City of Bellingham - 12.8-acres at Little Squalicum
Park and 1.8 acres at Boulevard Park
• Lummi Nation — 20-acres on Haxton Way leased to
the to the Lummi Nation
• Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife -
Hovander Boat Launch
• South Whatcom Fire Authority - 1.4-acres
• Phillips 66 Soccer Park - Whatcom Soccer
Commission — 36.6-acres
• Whatcom County Public Works leases a boat
launch site on the south shore of Lake Whatcom to
the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
The Department leases land for park purposes from
• Bertch Timberlands LLC— 60-acres at Plantation
Rifle Range
• Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife —
140-acres at Pine & Cedar Lakes
• Puget Sound Energy - Interurban Trail and
miscellaneous properties
• Washington Department of Natural Resources -
miscellaneous tidelands
• Whatcom Public Works Department - through
an inter departmental agreement, the Parks &
Recreation Department manages the contract with
the Back Country Horsemen for use of the Y-Road
trailhead
The County has a reserve of 182.2 acres categorized
as park and open space lands and preserved for future
development and use. These include;
• Dittrich Park: 25.2-acre undeveloped property on
the southeast shore of Lake Samish
• South Lake Whatcom: 79.5-acre undeveloped
property on the southeast end of Lake Whatcom
The property has limited day use access and its
shoreline is used for fishing, boating and diving.
• Haynie Road: 1.9-acre undeveloped former school
site located corner of Haynie and Custer School
Roads
• Kickerville Road: 2.6-acre undeveloped former
school site located at the NW corner of Kickerville
and Bay Roads
Parks Condition
Park facilities are inspected and assessed by staff on
an, at minimum, annual basis for capital and general
maintenance needs. Playgrounds are inspected on a daily
basis during peak use periods and at least weekly during
other times of the year. Water, septic and other operating
systems are inspected and tested according to local and
State requirements. Because many of the major park
areas were developed in the late 1960's and 1970's, a
major portion of the capital improvement budget in the
past 15 years has focused on infrastructure maintenance
and upgrades such as road reconstruction, campground
shower and restroom improvements, roof replacement,
playgrounds, docks, and water and electrical system
upgrades. Primarily through the use of real estate excise
tax revenues (REET I and II), and other funding sources
such as Conservation Futures and state grant funding
the department has been able to complete a number
of major maintenance and improvement projects over
the last decade. However, a growing backlog of capital
maintenance projects has stretched current available
departmental resources in both fiscal and human capacity.
The increase in use and demand during the global crisis
of the COVID-19 pandemic revealed limitations of the
department's aging facilities and associated infrastructure.
As other recreational facility options became unavailable
to the citizens of Whatcom County, public recreational
facilities served as a safe and local options for the public at
large. The limitations revealed supported the Department's
past focus on infrastructure maintenance and upgrades
as an appropriate and important use of resources. It also
reinforced that continued investment in existing facilities
and infrastructure is needed. Additionally, incorporation
of infrastructure repairs and maintenance, along with
significant renovations, into future parks master planning
efforts should be considered.
A major development since the last CPROS update has
been the identification of contamination associated
primarily with lead at the Plantation Rifle Range. The
range has been in operation since 1971 and to resolve a
legacy of lead accumulation, in early 2023 WCPR entered
into an Agreed Order with the Washington Department of
Ecology. Because of lead accumulation, areas associated
facility's high -power and small -bore ranges have been
designated as "Dangerous Waste Management Units"
required, under the Agreed Order to be remediated
pursuant to relevant regulations. WCPR is in the process
of characterizing the extent of contamination associated
with past range operations and potential impacts to water
quality. Whatcom County is required by the Agreed Order
to undertake full clean-up of the site and will undertake
planning to determine the character of future operations
at the site.
E. Wildlife and Critical Habitat Conservation
Habitat conservation areas are critical to the survival of
Whatcom County's diverse plant and wildlife communities.
Habitats encompass a variety of areas including large
parcels of contiguous undeveloped land, special areas like
streams or wetlands, and structural elements like rocky
shorelines or standing dead trees.
However, the ecological value of an area depends on
the quantity, quality, diversity, and seasonality of the
food, water, and cover that it provides wildlife species. A
particular site's value also depends on proximity to other
usable habitats, the presence of rare species, and the
habitat classification.
Preservation and restoration of critical habitat areas is key
to protecting the biological diversity of Whatcom County.
Critical habitat can be lost or degraded due to urban and
some rural land use activities. Critical habitat threats can
be reduced with effective land use policies and regulations
Wildlife habitats can be classified as marine, estuarine,
freshwater, and terrestrial. Many wildlife species rely upon
most, even all, of these habitats for survival. Whatcom
County has all four types of wildlife habitat.
Marine Habitat
Marine habitats are salt water areas that extend
outward from the upper limit of wave spray on land. In
Whatcom County, marine habitats extend the complete
circumference of the mainland and Point Roberts, and
Lummi, Portage, and Eliza islands.
Marine habitats provide critical plant, fish, and wildlife
habitat that can be greatly affected by land and water -
based activities. The waters of Georgia Strait, Drayton
Harbor, Birch Bay, Lummi Bay, Bellingham Bay, and
Chuckanut Bay depend on the health of tideflats and the
water column for primary production. Eelgrass, kelp, and
phytoplankton provide the primary cornerstone for the
grazing food chain, and shelter for both invertebrate and
vertebrate animal species.
The deeper waters and narrow channels of Georgia
Strait, Rosario Strait, and Hale Passage, as well as the
shallower waters of Drayton Harbor and Birch, Lummi,
Bellingham, and Chuckanut Bays produce a unique marine
environment rich in nutrients hosting a remarkable
diversity of fish and other animal life.
The open channels, rocky outcrops, islands, and large
bays of Whatcom County provide wintering and breeding
habitat for a wide variety of marine birds including loons,
grebes, cormorants, gulls, ducks, geese, shorebirds and
alcids.
Fish and Wildlife Species
Special status/priority fish and wildlife species (or
particular relationships between species and habitat) that
rely on the marine habitat in Whatcom County for at least
part of the year or part of their life cycle include: bald
eagle, Brandt's cormorant, regular large concentrations
of brant (geese), haulout areas for California sea lion,
common loon, common murre, breeding concentrations
of cormorants and alcids, regular concentrations of Dall's
porpoise, breeding areas and regular concentrations
of Dungeness crab, regular concentrations of geoduck,
breeding areas for great blue heron, haulout areas
for harbor seal, regular marine concentrations of
harlequin duck, killer whale, regular concentrations of
Manila clam, marbled murrelet, native littleneck clam;
nonbreeding concentrations of Barrow's goldeneye,
common goldeneye, and bufFlehead; nonbreeding
concentrations of loons, grebes, cormorants, and alcids;
nonbreeding concentrations of plovers, sandpipers, and
phalaropes; northern abalone, Olympia oyster, Pacific
harbor porpoise, regular concentrations of Pacific oyster,
regular concentrations of Pandalid shrimp, peregrine
falcon, regular concentrations of red urchin, regular large
concentrations of waterfowl, western grebe, Chinook
salmon, coho salmon, chum salmon, pink salmon, sockeye
salmon, bull trout, steelhead, coastal cutthroat trout,
Pacific herring, Pacific sand lance, surf smelt, longfin smelt,
and numerous rockfish species.
Kelp and eelgrass beds - are identified in the Whatcom
County Critical Areas Ordinance as Habitat Conservation
Areas (HCAs). These beds provide habitat, feeding, and
rearing grounds for a large number of marine organisms
including crabs, fish, and birds. Kelp are the large brown
seaweeds typically found in rocky intertidal and subtidal
areas. Eelgrass is a vascular plant that grows most
commonly in intertidal and shallow subtidal sandy and
muddy areas.
Kelp beds provide a surface upon which other plants and
animals grow. They are used as resting areas by birds and
mammals including gulls, herons, waterfowl, shorebirds,
and seals. Kelp beds also protect environments for
intertidal plants and animals by reducing current, wave
action, and inshore erosion on sand and gravel beaches.
The beds provide a protected beach habitat for marine
organisms that would not be present otherwise.
Eelgrass is a highly productive plant that provides trophic
functions and nutrient infusions for the entire coastal
zone. Eelgrass beds provide an important stopover and
wintering area along the Pacific flyway for a variety of
migratory birds. The eelgrass beds in Georgia Strait and
Puget Sound further south have been found to be three
times more productive to diving birds, for example, than
non -vegetated near- shore areas.
Kelp and eelgrass beds have declined in number and
overall size in Georgia Strait and Puget Sound in recent
years. The decline may be due to changes in water quality
and turbidity resulting from urban development and forest
cutting activities, or to natural fluctuations due to storms,
unusually hot weather, or an increase in the population of
grazing species.
Commercial and recreational shellfish areas are identified
in the Whatcom County Critical Areas Ordinance as Habitat
Conservation Areas (HCAs). Shellfish inhabit the muds,
sands, and rocky substrata of Georgia Strait, Drayton
Harbor, and Birch, Lummi, Bellingham and Chuckanut Bays.
Intertidal areas support hardshell clams including butter
clams, native littleneck, manila clams, cockles, and horse
clams. Geoducks typically burrow in subtidal areas up to
2 to 3 feet into the mud or soft sand. Shrimp, crab, and
oysters also inhabit the shoreline areas. Dungeness crab
frequent eelgrass beds, and red rock crab inhabit rocky
terrain with less silt content.
Surf smelt, Pacific herring, and Pacific sand lance spawning
areas - are identified in the Whatcom County Critical
Areas Ordinance as Habitat Conservation Areas (HCAs).
Surf smelt inhabit marine nearshore areas year-round,
and spawning may occur year-round. Significant spawning
concentrations of Pacific herring are found in the Cherry
Point and Samish-Portage Bay areas. Most Pacific herring
stocks spawn from late January through early April,
although the Cherry Point stock (the largest in the state)
spawns from early April through early June. Spawning
areas for Pacific sand lance are scattered along nearshore
areas in Whatcom County, with spawning in intertidal
areas occurring annually from November 1 through
February 15.
Estuarine Habitat
Estuaries are semi -enclosed bodies of water that are freely
connected with the open sea and within which saltwater
mixes with freshwater drainage. They create transitions
between marine, freshwater, and terrestrial environments
that support a rich and diverse variety of wildlife species.
The mixture of seawater and fresh water in estuaries is
called brackish water and its salinity can range from 0.5 to
35 ppt. As dynamic as the water that feeds them, salinity
concentrations are highly variable from one day to the next
depending tidal action, weather or other influences.
In Whatcom County, the estuarine environment extends
inland for some distance where freshwater from the
Nooksack and Lummi Rivers, and Dakota, California, Terrell,
Squaticum, Padden, and Chuckanut Creeks mixes with
saltwater tidal currents.
Wildlife Species
Estuaries support many of the same species that are
present in the marine environment described above
(refer to "Fish and Wildlife Species" section under
"Marine Habitat". Some species, such as oysters, are more
abundant in estuaries.
FRESHWATER HABITAT
Although they cover less than 0.01% of the planet's
surface, freshwater ecosystems support more than
125,000 species worldwide. Freshwater ecosystems
include lakes, rivers, creeks, wetlands, riparian areas, and
all other types of water bodies not included in estuaries
or marine habitat. Freshwater habitats support different
wildlife than saltwater systems, and these species depend
on these habitats during at least some part of their life
cycle for drinking water, foraging, nesting, and migratory
movements.
Riparian areas - are the vegetated corridors located along
rivers, streams, and springs. Riparian corridors have free -
flowing water or moist conditions that result in high water
tables, certain soil characteristics, and vegetation that
is transitional between freshwater and terrestrial. The
transitional edges are usually defined by a change in plant
composition, relative plant abundance, and the end of high
soil moisture content.
Riparian corridors transport water, soil, plant seeds, and
nutrients to downstream areas, and thereby serve as
important migration routes for many wildlife species.
Riparian areas, though small in overall size, are one of
the most important sources of wildlife biodiversity in the
landscape.
Riparian areas in Whatcom County are located along the
Nooksack and Lummi Rivers and all stream corridors.
These areas are covered with riparian vegetation and
should be considered important wildlife corridors.
Wetlands
Freshwater wetland habitats are water bodies less than
20 acres in size or less than 6 feet in depth and include
marshes, swamps, bogs, seeps, wet meadows, shallow
ponds, and lakes. Like riparian areas, wetlands are very
productive, supporting diverse and dense populations of
plants and animals. The wooded areas that are located
adjacent to wetlands provide nesting areas, forage, and
cover that are critical to wetland -dependent species, such
as waterfowl and small mammals including beaver.
Riparian and wetland vegetation provides significant
food and cover for wildlife. Generally, riparian areas and
wetlands provide substantially more important wildlife
habitat than drier forested areas. Riparian areas are also
passageways for wildlife moving between or around
developed areas. Riparian vegetation also helps maintain
optimum fish spawning conditions by providing shade,
bank stabilization, a breeding ground for insects, and a
source of organic material for streams.
Hundreds of small ponds and wetlands are located
throughout the county directly connected to rivers,
streams, lakes, or the bays. The surface water area varies
considerably in these systems depending on the time of
year.
Wetlands perform a variety of functions including
• providing habitat for fish and wildlife,
• maintaining water quality by filtering pollutants,
removing sediments, producing oxygen and
recycling nutrients,
• reducing floods, and
• recharging ground water.
Whatcom County Planning & Development Services
maintains an inventory of wetlands that are distributed
throughout Whatcom County. The inventory includes bogs,
forested wetlands, scrub/shrub wetlands, wet meadows,
shallow marsh wetlands, deep marsh wetlands, and open
water wetlands (lakes or ponds).
Lakes
Lakes are water bodies greater than 20 acres in size or
more than 6 feet in depth. The deeper waters and larger
surface of a lake support many fish and wildlife species.
However, most species prefer to nest and forage in
shallower ponds and the wetlands that adjoin larger open
water bodies.
Numerous lakes are located in the central and western
parts of the county, including Silver Lake, Lake Terrell, Lake
Padden, Lake Samish, Squires Lake, Cain Lake, Emerald
Lake, Canyon Lake, Tennant Lake, Wiser Lake, Fazon Lake,
Squalicum Lake and Lake Whatcom. Ross and Baker Lakes
in the eastern portion of the county were formed by
impounding the Skagit River. In all there are over forty
named lakes in Whatcom County.
Wildlife species
Special status/priority wildlife species (or particular
relationships between species and habitat) that rely on
freshwater habitat in Whatcom County for at least part
of the year or part of their life cycle include: bald eagle,
Cascades frog, Columbia spotted frog, common loon,
red -legged frog, tailed frog, western toad, cavity -nesting
ducks, breeding areas for great blue heron, harlequin
duck breeding areas, regular occurrences of mink, regular
concentrations of snow geese, regular concentrations of
trumpeter and tundra swans, and significant breeding
areas and large wintering concentrations of all waterfowl
except Canada geese in urban areas.
Fish habitatond species
County streams provide freshwater habitat for various
species of anadromous fish, including salmon and sea -
run trout that live in saltwater but return to spawn in
freshwater. These fish species have evolved over time to fit
the specific characteristics of their stream of origin, and are
uniquely imprinted compared with other members of the
same species.
Anadromous fish require cool, uncontaminated water with
healthy streambeds and insect populations. Vegetated
riparian areas maintain stream habitats critical to fish by
stabilizing water temperature, producing an insect supply,
controlling erosion, and providing woody debris.
Chinook salmon (Puget Sound) and bull trout, both found
in Whatcom County, are listed as Threatened Federal
Species. Other special status/priority fish species that rely
on freshwater habitat in Whatcom County include coho
salmon, chum salmon, pink salmon, sockeye salmon,
rainbow trout/steel head, and coastal cutthroat trout.
Factors that have caused the diminishment of wild runs of
anadromous fish in Whatcom County include:
• forest clearcutdng and land developments - that
create sediment loads which increase water turbidity and
silt in gravel spawning beds;
• clearcutbng tree stands in riparian areas —
that remove natural shading which increases water
temperatures; and
• water diversions —that restrict access to the upper
reaches and spawning areas of rivers.
TERRESTRIAL HABITAT
Terrestrial habitat includes those lands located above
freshwater, estuarine, and marine habitats. These areas
extend from the level lowlands that border marshes,
rivers, etc., to the tops of bluffs, foothills and mountains in
Whatcom County.
Plant Communities
Natural plant communities are described in terms of broad
vegetation patterns called vegetation zones. Washington
plant communities are divided into three major vegetation
groupings including:
• forests,
• grasslands and shrub/grass communities, and
• timberline and alpine areas.
Western Whatcom County contains three primary forested
vegetation zones: the western hemlock, Pacific silver fir,
and mountain hemlock zones. These zones are defined by
their elevation which affects temperature and vegetation
types.
Much of western Whatcom County is located within the
western hemlock zone. This zone is the most extensive
vegetation zone in all of western Washington, extending
from the Pacific coast to an elevation of about 2,500 feet,
and characterized by a mild and generally wet climate.
The western hemlock zone is the major source of
commercially harvested coniferous trees including western
hemlock, Douglas fir, and western red cedar. Grand fir,
western white pine, and lodgepole pine also occur within
this zone although on a sporadic basis.
Deciduous tree species, such as red alder, big leaf maple,
and paper birch, are generally dominant on lands that have
been cleared for urban and agriculture uses in Whatcom
County. Black cottonwood, willow, red alder and big -leaf
maple, tend to grow along major watercourses.
Understory vegetation in the western hemlock zone varies
substantially depending upon soils, wetness, and other
environmental factors. Some typical understory species in
this zone in Whatcom County include Oregon grape, salal,
vine maple, salmonberry, and sword fern.
Development in Whatcom County has substantially
reduced terrestrial habitat throughout the years. However,
valuable habitat still remains in undeveloped, large native
forests. Some wildlife species may feed in more than one
type of habitat during the day but retreat for night and
seasonal cover into upland wooded areas.
Mature forests provide thermal cover during winter
months allowing larger game mammals to forage up to
3,000 feet in elevation during normal seasons, or 2,000
feet during especially harsh winters.
Some previously forested portions of the county's low-lying
areas are now converted to pastures and meadows which
may contain agricultural crops, woody vegetation, grasses,
and wildflowers. These areas provide food for migratory
waterfowl and deer, habitat for birds and small mammals,
and hunting grounds for predators like garter snakes, barn
owls, red-tailed hawks, and coyotes.
Many wildlife species can tolerate urban development as
long as some adjacent habitat and connecting migration
corridors remain undisturbed, and large reserves remain
connected by natural migration corridors. These corridors
enable species to colonize new areas, forage for food, find
mates, and exchange genes with neighboring populations.
Wildli/e Species
Special status/priority wildlife species (or particular
relationships between species and habitat) that rely on
terrestrial habitat in Whatcom County for at least part
of the year or part of their life cycle include: bald eagle,
golden eagle, marbled murrelet, northern goshawk,
northern spotted owl, peregrine falcon, pileated
woodpecker, purple martin, Townsend's big -eared bat,
Vaux's swift, willow flycatcher, wolverine (very rare), band -
tailed pigeon; roosting concentrations of big brown, Myotis
and pallid bats; blue grouse, cavity -nesting ducks, regular
large concentrations of /migration corridors for Columbian
black -tailed deer, regular occurrences of mink and marten,
breeding areas and regular concentrations of mountain
goat; and regular concentrations, calving areas, and
migration corridors for Roosevelt elk.
OTHER IMPORTANT HABITATS
Whatcom County has a number of other specific habitat
types that are critical to wildlife including caves, cliffs,
urban natural open space, and snag -rich areas.
Unique and threatened plant species
The Washington State Department of Natural Resources'
Natural Heritage Program has compiled a list of
endangered, threatened and otherwise sensitive plant
species in Washington State. This list is included for
reference in the appendix.
Wildlife habitat concerns
Marine Habitat
Urban development and forest cutting practices along the
shoreline can seriously impact the marine environment
by increasing levels of suspended solids, pollutants, or
freshwater entering marine areas. Suspended solids
introduced into saltwater can reduce light penetration,
increase sediment deposition, increase water temperature,
and affect dissolved oxygen and pH balance, thereby
affecting all forms of marine habitat.
An increase in turbidity as slight as 1% can reduce light
penetration and affect kelp and eelgrass beds. An increase
in sedimentation levels can smother eelgrass beds in
shallow areas, as can long term exposure to sewage
effluent.
Sedimentation created by natural or urban erosion can
cover shellfish beds and fish spawning gravel. Shellfish
beds can also be contaminated by chemical and bacterial
discharge, and viruses created by agriculture practices,
failing septic drainfields, sewage outfalls, and stormwater
runoff. Some contaminants may not harm shellfish, but
may adversely affect birds and other animals that feed on
the shellfish.
Toxic contaminants contained within urban stormwater
runoff or industrial discharge can poison the marine water
column and sediments creating tumors and poisonous
concentrations in fish and invertebrate species.
Bulkhead, dock, and other waterfront structures can
reduce the natural shoreline and affect the rate of natural
beach deposition resulting in loss of vegetation and loss of
the shoreline and intertidal habitat that support herring,
smelt, and other fish.
Estuarine Habitat
Some estuarine areas have been filled or drained in
the past, especially around developed waterfront. The
remaining unaltered estuarine areas may be protected by
the Shoreline Management Act, which virtually prohibits
further alterations.
Among the greatest risks to estuarine areas are
contaminants that may enter the saltwater from oil
transportation hazards and recreational boating activity
and from freshwater by way of general stormwater
pollution from agriculture, septic failures, and other
degradations. Water quality risks are dramatically
increased where land development activities occur along
freshwater streams that feed an estuary.
Freshwater Habitat
Some freshwater habitats have been altered in the county
by landfill or piped diversions. Past development activities
adjacent to urban areas, particularly along the shorelines
and waterfronts, have filled valuable wetland habitat areas.
Among the greatest risks to freshwater habitats are
contaminants that may enter the stormwater runoff from
agriculture, septic failures, and other urban land uses.
Water quality risks are also dramatically increased where
land development or timber clearing activities increase
erosion and siltation, and where vegetation is cleared
within the riparian buffer along freshwater corridors.
Development activities most adversely affect the quality of
freshwater habitat by removing vegetation, and increasing
silt, organic debris, and other stormwater contaminants
that enter the natural drainage system. Water quality can
decline when as little as 10-20% of a local watershed is
paved or otherwise covered with man-made materials
(e.g., parking lots, and roof tops). These impervious
surfaces exclude infiltration into the ground, leading to
excess runoff into streams and other water bodies. Greater
runoff volumes are tied to increased pollutant loading and
degradation of habitat and loss of biological diversity.
Terrestrial Habitat
Considerable terrestrial habitat has been permanently
lost by the clearing of lands for agriculture and urban land
developments. Commercial forest management practices
have included replanting clearcuts with single species,
thereby reducing wildlife diversity and isolating habitat and
migration corridors, particularly along riparian areas.
Fire suppression, particularly of naturally occurring
wildfires has reduced the amount and diversity of
meadowlands and other open areas necessary for foraging
activities.
The greatest risk to the terrestrial habitat, however, is the
continued pace of urban land conversions, particularly land
development patterns that block or demolish migration
corridors, log timbered areas, remove riparian cover,
erode productive topsoil, and introduce urban activities
- potentially including intense recreational uses - into
wildlife areas.
As the most important habitats are isolated, wildlife
species decline in diversity and number. Urban tolerant
species, like raccoons and crows, invade the remaining
habitat from the urban edges, supplanting and driving out
many native species.
Land use implications
Marine, estuarine, freshwater, and terrestrial habitats
contribute to the overall biological diversity of the region
and provide a number of additional environmental
functions and values of interest to Whatcom County
residents. Many species depend on the constant
interaction of all four of these habitat systems for food,
cover, nesting, and other survival requirements.
Impacts on plant, fish, and wildlife habitat can be
minimized by sensitive land use patterns, innovative
design concepts, and performance -oriented development
standards that:
• replant native vegetation along the shoreline and
tidal boundaries, within the estuarine zone, and
along drainage corridors,
• remove artificial shoreline structures, barriers to
the mixing of salt and freshwater, and freshwater
impoundments or diversions,
• control the content and quality of stormwater
runoff that enters freshwater systems and marine
and estuarine environments,
• cultivate native trees and shrubs that support and
retain native species, and
• cluster roadways and other improvements to
preserve natural shorelines and to provide
contiguous open spaces as common lands.
Within a park setting, the most intense park activities must
be separated from the most sensitive habitats by creating
conservancies, open space corridors, and other protected
areas.
This park, recreation, and open space plan seeks to
preserve and enhance critical and unique habitat areas by
purchasing development rights or title for regional parks,
preserves and open space.
FLORA and FAUNA
Flora
For a detailed list vascular plant species of concern for
Whatcom County go to:
https://www.dnr.wa.gov/NHPlists
Fauna
For a list of species on the State endangered, threatened,
sensitive or candidate list by the USFWS:
https:Hecos.fws.gov/ecp/report/species-listings-by-state?
stateAb b rev=WA&state Name=Wash i ngto n &status Catego r
y=Listed
Lake Whatcom
Lake Whatcom supports a variety of fish including
native and introduced, cold and warm water species.
Fish species that can be found in Lake Whatcom include
Kokanee, Cutthroat trout, Largemouth Bass, Yellow Perch,
amphibians, reptiles, and 125 species of birds.
For a detailed list visit the Lake Whatcom Watershed
Management website at:
https://www.lakewhatcom.whatcomcou nty.org/about-the-
lake/fish-and-wildlife
� � Blaine
25
Whatcom County Parks & Recreation Facilities
Lynden
imas„
�W
471
38
CA
24�. 2
V
43 L 39 r
5415 26 - Maple Falls
4� 1 - $s -
4=
28
Managing Agencies
22
8
�
1
Acme
%
17
18
y
47
5
WC Parks & Recreation City Governments WSP USFS WDFW
WDNR School Districts
t,
1
Say Horizon Park
Gemini Street, WA 98230
• ":66.2
r"-1981
Regional:Park • :
Developed r
: 0
: 0
":'. 0.3
I'0 3
0
:0:94
IT
2
Boulevard Park
4471B.ve, Bell n hams WA98225
1A
::1968
Regional Park :..
Developed
:700
: 0
0
: 0
:'-0
:0
:11
3
Chuckanut Mountain:Park -Pne&Cedar lRead,
7-�9___
Bellingham, WA98229
7'md
987.9
':2002
Reg' onal:Park :
Developed
':.0
'250
-165
:165
0
:0.31
:93
4
Deming: Homes'- Eagle Park
Dom rig, WA 98244
33.0
2002
Regi-I Park
Developed
0
:2250
: 0.7
0
0.705
D ttrich:Park
sh Drive, Bellingham WA98229:
:2i 2
1956
Regional Park :
Undeveloped
0
1600
: 0
0
:0
0.116
Hovander Homestead Park
ad, Ferndale, WA 98248
3334
::1969
Regional -Park :::
Developed
':: 0
::137S0
3A
'::2 7
:0.7
:0.97
""-1
7
Jensen Family Forest Park ;:
051teinoad, uster, WA 98240
215
': 2005
Regional Park ":Developed
:0
: 0
'.: 0.7
'::0
0.7
0
:+1
8
takeWhatcom Park '
3220 NorthsHore Road,: Bellingham, WA 982264853.0
1972Reional:Park
:Developed
::0
'17200
:85
8.5
0
788
-2
9
UghYnouse Marine Park
811 MarineDrive, PointRotierts; WA98281
: 20.5
:1971
Regionat:Park
DevelapetlP460
0
09
:0.9
-0
D:B
'1
30
UIy:Point Marine Park : >:
2315 A.P.A. Road, Point Roberts, WA 98281
:262 1
:2008
Regional Par :::
Developed
: 0
2
::0 9
: i;l
0.18
.:1
it
Lookout mountain forest Preserve
2537 take Louise Road, Bellingham, WA 98229 '':
r46828
::2001
Regional Park .::Developed
0
:81
;55
:2.6
12.81
±1
12
Ma leCreek Park ::
7842SIVer Lake Road,MaIe Falls, WA98266 .':
: 73.1
2007
Re tonal Park :
Undeveloped
: 70D
1
::1
0
:0
50
13
Monument Park
25 Marne Drive, Point Roberts, WA 98281
6.9
:1971
Regional Park :
Developed
0
:- 0 3
0.1
01
: 0
1
14
Samish:Park :.
673 N Lake Samish Drive, Bellingham, WA 98229:
30 6
1996Regional
Park :
Developed16DO
-:: 14
:: 0
'1.4
0:2S
t1
15
Scmiahmbo Park ::
9261SerriiatimooParkway; Blaine, WA 98230
291.9
1980
Regional Park "Developed
: 0
:;IA
::14
00
1
16silver
take Park
90065lver Lake Road, Maple Falls, WA 98266 :
:'413 4
:1966
Reg onal Park ::
Developed
6350
51
<2 3
2:8
3.04
1
17
South Fork Park ::
153D Mosquito: Lake Road, Deming, WA 98244:
<:6030
1993
Re onal ParDeveloed
:15860
:-23
23
'0
1,03
218
South Lake Whatcom :'
4144S SaDrive, Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284
:795
1973
Re onal Park :Undeveloped
5220
0
0
:0
0
1
19
Squires Lake Park
2510 Nulle: Road, Bellingham, WA 98229
901
" 1995
Re ionatPark
Developed
:. 0
-3300
2.2
2 2
r 0
DZ6
<1
20
Sunset. Farm Park :::
7977 Bla ne:Road, Blaine WA 98230
'::69 S
1993
Regional Park r
Developed
::. 0
0
:- O.B
:0.8
A
01
1
Total Developed Regional Park Acres
12769.2
Total Undeveloped Regional Park Acres
780.E
Total Regional Park Acres
12947.0
21
Birch Bay8each Park
7930 Birch Say Onye; Blaine, WA 98230
':: 13.7
::2014
Community Park :Undeveloped
400
0
0
: 0
'.:0
22
ush:VanderYacht Park.
4106:Valley Highway, Deming�WA 98244
:: 20
::1970
Cominunity:Park :.Developed
C
0
0
0
;0
::0
?1
23
Little Squalrtum Park
640 Marine Drive, Bellingham WA98225
12.7
: 1975
Community:Park :
Developed
0
0
: 0
:;0
-<0
24
Maple Falls Community: Park
7470 Second Street, Maple Falls, WA 98266
': 4.2
: 2014Cbmmunity
Park
Undeveloped
01
0
0
0
'-0
Total Developed CnityPark Acres
147
'
Total Undeveloped Community Park Acres
180
Total Community Park Acres
323
25
IHmyciekoad :
2876 Haynie Road,Custer, WA 98240
I'1.9
,1974 Neig7rbbrhoad Park -:Undeveloped
rl
',0
01
DD0
26
Kidkerkille Rbad i
411D8ay Ro*,s`Femdate,WA18248
1. i619777
Ne' bbbt'.0d Park
Undeveloped
`- 0
- 0'
D
i 0
A,
27
Redwood Park
3310,RedwlsodiAvende, BelhngNatn, WA98226;
D319937
Nejhbolfiodd Park ':Developed
�.0
:.D
0
D
0
„ 0
a3(
28
Ted Edwards Park
4150Odental Lane. Begin ham;WA98226
>3.5
1968 Neighborhood !Developed
0
i D
r a
A
, .jj
Total Developed N Rhb rhood Park Acres
3.8
Total Undeveloped Neighborhood Park Acres
4.5
Total Neighborhood Park Acres
8.2
29
Aiston Preserve
1103 Beach Ave, Lumml Island, WA 98262
113.6
2016
Preserve / Open Space
Developed
3800�
0
0
0
0
0
I:0
3D
Aldenvood
3479 Willowwood Road, Bellingham, WA 98226
- 1.9
1955?
Preserve/ Open Space
Undeveloped
0
0
0
0
0
'0
'0
31
Bir<hBay Conservancy Area
700D Point Whitehorn Road, Blaine, WA 98230
450
2004
Preserve/Open Space
Undeveloped
1500
0
0
0
:0
0
"s0
32
Canyon Lake Community Forest :
8300 Mt: Baker Highway, Deming. WA98244
-22660
-.:1998
Preserve Open Space .Developed
0
6700
7
0
:7
0
it
33
Euclid Park -.
1570 Euclid Avenue; Bellingham; WA 98226.
:2.2
1966
Preserve Open Space
Undeveloped
0
50
0
0
0
: D
0
34
Galbraith Mountain Access
800Birch: Falls Drive, Belingham,WA98229
200
1993
Preserve Open Space- -Undeveloped
0
0
0
0
-0
:::0.6
::0
35
Halverson Park
5075 Anderson Road,, Blaine,, WA 98230
5.6
1932
Preserve Open Space
Undeveloped
0
0
0
0
:.:0
':0
-0
36
Ostrom Conservation Site ':
4304 South Pass Road, Everson, WA 98247
11.6
1983
Preserve open Space
Developed
0
0
06
0
:: 0.6
0
37
Point Whrtehom Marine Reserve :
6770 Koeha Road;. Blaine, WA 98230
14.1
: :2008
Preserve/Open Space : -
Developed
1950
0
O8
0
0.8
0.11
1
38
South'Pass East
4900 South Pa. Road, Sumas, WA 98295
OS
::
Preserve /Open Space
Undeveloped
0
0
0
:. 0
,0
: D
r0
39
South Pass West
4190 South Pass Road; Sumas, WA 98295
04
-Preserve/Open
Space
Undeveloped
0
0
0
0
0
:.:0
0
40
Stimpson family Nature Reserve
2076 Lake Louise Road, Bellingham, WA 98229.
400.4
:2000
Preserve/Open Space :
Developed
0
5620
4
0
4
r:0
:1
41
Terrell Creek Access
7417 Jackson Road, Blaine, WA 98230
0.5
Preserve/Open Spate
Undeveloped
0
540
0
0
0
:0
':0
42
Terrell Creek Heron Rookery
7065 Jackson Road, Maine, WA 98230
15.0
2005
Preserve/Open Space
Undeveloped
0
270
0.
0
0
01
0
43
Terrell Creek Point:.
7685 Birth Bay Drive, Blame; WA 98230
67
Preserve Open Space
Undeveloped
0
260
0
0
0
44
Turner -Jaeger
1975 Lake Louise Road, Belli ngham, WA 98226
3.8
2005Preserve/Open
Space
Undeveloped
0
0
0
0
0
Total Developed Preserve / Open Space Acres
2672.6
Total Undeveloped Preserve/ Open Space Acres
101.6
J-
i
Total Preserve Open Space Acres
2974.2
45
BayVeekt*ait
2005
Gmxnway/',1'Nd8 i
bevoioped
D:2 [
',
, A
, YP
46
ay.lbiBak'dri'r�1 Ma Giacie'tsotdon >
BDamp#2
' ;573
. 1'9,7t16reenway
JdJ'Y4il' "Developed
.cFallstd
Road RR
daWy,A 982B47
ck'df
.,
,.,
0
,0,:.
0
A;:{!'
48
Hie igtdo CanyoN`s
3845k1ueGn`on Road, 6edrb-ANoolle . WA48284i
3,5'
,9'90
GmenWay7r�I ?
UndevF!lo
=_ D
; 3820.
" ; 0
? 0
:0
j':13
49
Interur'Gan Trail ?
Chugkanut DHv`e
.J D'6
-; i992
G'reenway j0`rait S
Devoloped '
0
2; 3;1
_._
Total DeloP dG ay/Tral Acres
973
_
,....
j
_
_..
Total Undeveloped Greenway/TralAcres
58
Total Greenway/Trail Acres
103.1
-�
50
Burch Bay Beach& Tidelands Access ::.
Birch Bay Drive::.
15110
11936
WaterAccess "'Undeveloped
;:
:-5375
0
- 0
;s 0
'".0
0
0
51
Broadway Beach Access '7497
Birch Bay'.Drive, Blaine, WA 99230
:0,1
2981
Water Access 'Developed
+:55
0
0
:: 0
:0
0
i1
52
Cottonwood Reach Access '
8191 Birch Bay;Drive, Blame WA 98230
:, 5.1
1932
Water Access
Developed
775
0
0
0
::a
0
;0
53
Drayton Harbor Tidelands
- 0.3
2009
WaterAccess ::;Undeveloped
:
270
0
0
0
0
0
'0
54
Jackson: Road Beach Access :
7465 Birch Bay Drive, Blaine, WA 98230
GI
Water Access
Developed
'SO
0
0
0
<0
0
S
5S
Wmmi;],land Beach Access "
2198 N Nugent Road, Ferndale WA 98248
0.2
1979
water Access '
Developed
130
0
0
: 0
%:0
0
1
56
Maple Beach Tidelands:
;300.9
-1971
Water Access :
Undeveloped
`:1900
0
0
0
i:0
:0
'0
57
Nugent's Corner ReaerAccess '368S
Mt. Baker Highway, Eve rsoh, WA 98247
s141
2004
WaterAccess %:Developed
i 0
2501)
�'0.5
:; 0
015
011u
3
58
S.nryside Landing -.2870
Nbrthshore Road, Bellingham, WA 98226 ':
:6.3
s2005
WaterAccess :::Undeveloped
":
': 0
%780
: 0
0
i.D
;0
'0
59
SunsetBeach 3258OW5h.ncDrye,Lummi
lsland,WA98262 t
^. 7.0
-.2D08
WaterAccess
Developed
,1340
0
?0,1
'0.1
1D
0
,S
60
TeddyBear Cave Park ;:
1467 Chuckanut Drive, Bell!ngham,WA98229
14.2
±199i
WaterAccess :Developed
1425
0
:0.3
:- 0
'113
30
0
61
Welcome Bridge RwerAaess ::
SSSS Mosqu'im take ftoad,D.rmh,WA98244
:06
::2007WaterAccess
-:'Developed
D
150
0
b
is-0
10
;0
Total Developed Water Access Acres
38.5
Table Z2: Whatcom County Parks & Recreation Inventory (continued)
Table ZI Whatcom County Parks & Recreation Amenity Inventory
m
Is
Semiahmoo Park
Drayton Harbor ' Haynie Road
.�
Tidelands
.� ..
SouthsPass Eas
Halverson Park
CoHonwood Beach Access
Birch Bay Beach Park
Jensen Family Forest
Birch Bay Tidelands Sunset Farm Park
Park
Ostrom Conservatio Si
Broadway Beach Access Terrell Creek Point
South Pass West
Jackson Road Beach Accessg Horizon Park
y
R;
Terrell Creek Access -�
Kickerville Road
' '
Birch Bay ,,,,. Baycrest Trail
Conservancy Area ��1
'
Terrell Creek
omt hitehorn J-n Heron RookeryMarine W
�
Reserve
Ferndale Senior
A.t wry' Ce ter
Nugent s Corner '
0 2 4 6 Miles b I
H
`t River Access s�
vander
Homestead;
„�$Phiilips 665dccer
a ParksHeadquarters s'
Park 'y
-Park
:Deming Eagle
T
Homestead Park
�Q
Alderwodd Park
T4 Josh Va
Redwood Park
Park ""
Roeder
Little SqualiPark� Home
QyI
6
L
R
-Cagey Road
Bellingham Senior 6'
Euclid Park "Sunoys
Land ng 4 Y
ActCenter
Died Edwards rr
Sunset Beach!.
i
Pak
.Boulevard ! � ° Galbraith L
StI!P, son Famdy t�Lake ,fir zi
(7
Lummi Island 7
Pak Mountam
Turner --Nature Reserve 1Whatcoma -=
Ja P
Beach Access
: Access
ger f So
iks
qF rk
n
.i
Maple Beach
Monument Tidelands
Park
Plantat n �'
,.
Park -
Teddy Bear 6�`"
t
R fle R nge 4i sue. .� a.
Looko t
Cove Parks Ctiuckanut -
y p U
Mountam-S
01
`" Alston Preserve
K!lountam Park
Samish Way �H ggi
Forest➢ "1 y.
1
Pt: Rob rt �§
Y
-interurban 2 R
+ ``M - Prese e
Trait `� ` a South Lake "�E
�`. Lily Point
ark,
IN atcom`Parli
Lighthouse 'T" Monne Park
p
'Camp
�D
Marine Park
#2 Road.
D ttneh Parkf a RR ROW
�%
o os i ? Mles
1
WHAT
\-� Squirec lake Park SKAGI'
01
R
LVA WCPR Parks
Park Regions
WCPR Tidelands
West Region
Whatcom County
South Region
Boundary
r- East Region
v
'a
i
AE
Am
:Krs FG
a
Park, recreation, and open space land and facility demands
can be estimated using a variety of methods including
population ratios, participation models, level -of -service
(LOS) measurements, and/or questionnaire survey
methodologies. This plan utilized a variety of methods to
help determine demand and need.
A. Population and Demographics
A necessary step in the CPROS process is understanding
community demographics and evaluating how the
community is served by its parks system. Analyzing the
local demographic and Whatcom County's regional
context clarifies opportunities and constraints influential
to parks planning. The demographic profile of Whatcom
County plays a crucial role in shaping the CPROS Plan.
Understanding the county's population, age distribution,
cultural diversity, and socioeconomic factors is essential
for creating inclusive and accessible parks and open
spaces that cater to the needs and preferences of the
community. This summary provides an overview of the key
demographic characteristics of Whatcom County.
American Indian and Alaskan
Native alone
M Asian alone
IM Black of African American
alone
Hispanic or Latinx
® Native Hawaiian and Other
Pacific Islander alone
IN Some Other Race alone
White alone
Fig. 3.1: Racial Demographics: Washington State
American Indian and Alaskan
Native alone
Asian alone
IS Black of African American
alone
PN Hispanic or Latinx
M Native Hawaiian and Other
Pacific Islander alone
IN Some Other Race alone
White alone
Between 2010 and 2020, Whatcom County experienced
notable population growth. In 2010, the county had a
population of approximately 201,140 residents, and by
2020, this number had risen to around 228,000. a 12%
increase. The county's population is expected to grow
another 12% from 2020 to 2030, and nearly 17% again
from 2030 to 2040, These growth rates are slightly higher
than the statewide expected growth rate (10% and 14%
respectively). The higher growth rates reflect the county's
appeal as a place to live, work, and enjoy its natural
beauty. These numbers underscore the importance
of comprehensive planning to ensure that evolving
community needs are met while preserving the county's
unique character and natural and scenic resources.
Whatcom County is home to residents from various ethnic
backgrounds. A diversity that should be celebrated and
reflected in the design and programming of parks and
open spaces. While the county is predominantly White,
comprising 78.2% of the county population, this figure
is down from 82.1% in 2010, showing racial and ethnic
diversity is increasing in the county. The County should
strive to create environments that celebrate cultural
differences, foster cross-cultural interactions, and offer
amenities that resonate with the various racial and ethnic
communities. Additionally, outreach efforts should be
made to engage underrepresented groups in the planning
process ensuring their voices are heard and their needs
considered in the development and enhancement of parks
and open spaces.
2010 Hispanic or Latinx 2020
7.8% r 9.7%
Two or More
2.9% 3.7%
Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander
0.2% 0.3%
Asian
3.5% % 4.5/0
American Indian or Alaska Native
2.5% 11 2.5%
Black
0.9% 11 1.0%
White
Table 3,1: Whatcom County Estimated Population Projection
Whatcom County's population is not evenly distributed
across its overall land area of 2108 square miles. Over
half of the eastern side of the county (1125 square
miles) is North Cascades National Park or Mount Baker —
Snoqualmie National Forest, or Okanagan —Wenatchee
National Forest land. The western half of the county
features several distinct population centers, with
Bellingham being the largest and most densely populated
city. Additionally, there are other significant population
centers such as Ferndale, Lynden, and Blaine, each having
unique characteristics and recreational needs. Tailoring
park development to the distinct geographic locations and
populations within the county will enhance accessibility
and relevance to residents.
Given the diverse demographic makeup of Whatcom
County, it is vital to prioritize accessibility and inclusivity
in park planning. This goes beyond simply providing ADA-
compliant facilities. It requires promoting equity in access
to parks and open spaces, including language accessibility
in signage and information, and considering the needs of
individuals of all abilities regardless socioeconomic status.
2021
2022
2025
2030
2035
2040
2045
2050
2020 Census
Population
Population
Population
Population
Population
Population
Population
Population
Population
Estimate
Estimate
Projection
Projection
Projection
Projection
Projection
Projection
State
7,706,310
7,766,975
7,864,400
8,100,384
8,502,764
8,884,512
9,248,473
9,598,597
9,937,575
Whatcom
1 226,847
1 226,300
1 231,650
1 240,321
254,158
1 267,462
1 280,275
1 292,714
1 304,836
Most of Whatcom County's population is between the ages
of 20 to 44 at 35.5%. This is followed by the group ages
between 45- and 64-years accounting for 23.4%. 18.5%
of the population aged 65 and older, followed by 18.3%
between ages of 5 and 19. This diversity in age groups
should be taken into consideration when designing parks
and open spaces to ensure that they are responsive to the
needs of all ages.
Whatcom County's median household annual income is
approximately $70,011. Lower than the statewide median
household income of $77,006. Additionally, Whatcom
County has a 13% poverty rate, which is also slightly higher
than the statewide level of 10%. Of course, the distribution
of median income is not evenly spread across the county
with some areas, such as the Lummi Island, Marietta,
and the Kendall community experiences significantly
lower than the county's median income. Strategies such
as offering free or low-cost recreational programs and
maintaining a variety of park sizes, types, and distribution
can help address the socioeconomic diversity within the
county.
Household Median
Income
2000000
1800000
1600000
1400000
1200000
1000000
800000
600000
400000
200000
2016
Fig. 3.5: Whatcom County Parks Facilities Attendance
B. Park Visitation
Park use is tracked at most major trailheads and park
areas. A variety of methods are used including car and
trail counters, daily staff estimates, reservation data and
spot counts. This information is used by staff for planning
and reporting purposes and to help inform management
decisions. User counts are helpful in determining the
demand and capacity of park facilities and staff. Taken over
time, they can show user trends and reflect responses to
conditions and improvements.
Since the last update of the CPROS in 2016, there has been
considerable growth in yearly visitations to WCPR facilities.
For example, in 2022 WCPR had over 2,840,000 combined
visitations to park and trail facilities. Breaking visitations
into either parks or trails facility counts we can see that
park facility visitations accounted for approximately
1,166,000 (40%) while trails accounted for 1,674,000
(60%). These numbers equate to an Annual Average
Growth Rate (AAGR) of nearly 18% for parks and 45% for
trails.
Evaluating visitations to Senior Centers tells a different
story. In the years following the last CPROS update,
visitation numbers were reliably averaging 183,000
per year. However, COVID-19, and subsequent facility
closures that followed severely impacted Senior Service
visitation. Facility closures consequently impacted the
ability of Whatcom County and partner organization's
ability to provide the services and support this vulnerable
population relies upon. Fortunately, as the community
began to reopen, and the severity of the pandemic
lessened visitations began to increase and appear to be
moving toward previous visitation levels.
2021
C. Level of Service (LOS)
Trails
larks
iior Centers
2022
Whatcom County approved minimum levels of service
standards in 1997 for parks, trails and activity centers. This
was a joint effort between the Planning and the Parks &
Recreation Departments, and these standards are adopted
in the WCCP. Levels of service (LOS) are quantifiable
measures of the amount of public facilities that are
provided to the community. Often expressed as an average
per person, these metrics have been used to compare one
community's facilities against another, as well as other
agencies, and national standards. Typically, a standard LOS
is calculated for each type of facility such as the number
of parks or acres for every 1,000 residents. The practice of
quantifying local LOS to a national standard has not proven
to be beneficial or justifiable as each community's vision,
values and needs are different. The challenge of just using
LOS for Parks is that it does not identify the quality of the
service or facility, satisfaction of the residents with the
facility or capacity and use issues.
The current LOS calculation used by the County combines
athletic facilities, regional, community and neighborhood
parks, preserves and open spaces, greenways, and water
access sites that have parking, restrooms, trails and other
developed amenities as representing developed parks. The
current Park LOS is 9.6 acres for every 1,000 people in the
county.
Similarly, all trails including multi use, hiking, mountain
biking and equestrian are combined for the trail inventory
and LOS metric. The current Trail LOS is 0.60 miles of trail
for every 1,000 people in the county.
And, Senior centers, Plantation Rifle Range, East Whatcom
Regional Resource Center, Roeder Home and community
halls are combined for a total count of activity centers.
There is no current Activity Center LOS defined in the
WCCP, instead it references a Comprehensive Plan Policy
(4F-5):
"Continue to provide and support activity centers, including
senior centers, to serve the growing population of
Whatcom County by the following methods, as need, which
are listed in priority order: (1) implementing programming
changes (2) adding space to existing centers, and/or (3)
establishing new centers."
Current LOS based on Adopted Standards
2023 Population: 235,800
Developed Parks (235.8 X 9.6 = 2,263.68 acres)
Current inventory developed parks (in acres):
Regional Parks
12,769.2
Community Parks
14.7
Neighborhood
3.8
Preserve/Open Space
2,872.6
Greenway
97.3
Water Access
38.5
TOTAL
15,796.1
Trails (235.8 X.60 = 141.48 miles of trails)
Current inventory miles of trails: 75.32 miles
Based on existing inventory and population, Whatcom
County is currently meeting its adopted minimum level
of service for developed parks and activity centers. It
currently has a trail deficit of approximately 68 miles.
GMA and Concurrency
One goal of the GMA is Concurrency. Concurrency refers
to the timely provision of public facilities and services
relative to the demand for them. To maintain concurrency
means that adequate public facilities are in place to serve
new development as it occurs or within a specified time
period. The Growth Management Act (GMA) gives special
attention to concurrency for transportation and requires
local jurisdictions have a program to correct existing
deficiencies and bring existing transportation facilities
and services up to locally adopted standards. If meeting
adopted LOS is not feasible, local jurisdictions may need
to revisit comprehensive plan goals and LOS to consider
how they may be adjusted while still implementing the
community's vision.
GMA allows local jurisdictions to adopt a concurrency
mechanism for other public facilities that are deemed
necessary for development. WAC 365-196-840(2). These
other facilities may include parks and recreational facilities,
sanitary sewer systems, stormwater facilities, and schools.
When considering the adopted LOS for parks and trails
for Whatcom County, one can discern a clear disconnect
between what is currently provided compared to the
minimum service levels defined in the WCCP. Using the
LOS standard in the WCCP (initially adopted in 1997), the
current LOS for developed parks in 2023 is more than
700% above the recommended service level. And inversely,
the current trail LOS (adopted in 1997 and subsequently
modified) is 50% below the targeted service level. The
disparity suggests that these metrics are currently more an
indicator of how different the recreational landscape has
changed since 1997 rather than an accurate measure of
how responsive current park and recreational services are
to the community at large.
WCPR is planning a more robust CPROS update that
prioritizes community engagement and outreach efforts
in 2024 and 2025. The effort will include actively engaging
the Parks and Recreation Commission in the process to
evaluate LOS metrics and may result in recommendations
for Whatcom County Council consideration for modified
LOS metrics in the CPROS that are more responsive to
current and anticipated community needs and preferences.
Possible alternatives are summarized in Table 3.2.
The existing LOS standards in the Whatcom County
Comprehensive Plan may also be re-evaluated in the 2025
update or later.
Metric
Purpose
Building square footage
To evaluate if a community has enough indoor recreation space (examples include:
per capita
recreation/community centers, youth and senior activity centers, or gymnasiums).
Operating expenditures
To determine if adequate funding is being provided for effective operations and
per capita
maintenance.
Revenue per capita
To determine if a community is recovering enough costs to meet expectations and goals.
Revenue as a percentage
To determine if a community is recovering enough costs to meet expectations and goals.
of operating costs
Various sustainability /
Used to evaluate multiple community metrics including urban tree canopy, healthy
resiliency / equity metrics
I watershed/waterways, health and wellness.
Table 3.2: Possible CPROS Alternative Level of Service Metrics
D. Public Survey and Outreach
Community outreach efforts to solicit comment and
feedback on recreational and conservation priorities
included a public survey, community meetings, reviewing
comment forms that are collected at specific recreational
facilities, and input from WCPR front line staff that meet
daily with the recreating public.
Parks & Recreation On-line Survey
WCPR conducted an online survey in 2021. This survey
was hosted on the department's website and made
available to all members of the community. The survey
was designed to gather a variety of perspectives about
WCPR facilities, and where future investments should be
targeted. Collected input ensures that recommendations
of this plan address current and future needs. More
than 1,000 community members completed the survey,
and representation was well distributed among the
communities of Whatcom County.
It should be recognized that although participation was
relatively high, the survey did not completely achieve the
desired county -wide representation that was desired. For
example, more than two-thirds of respondents were long-
term residents, residing in Whatcom County for more than
a decade. 84% of respondents were homeowners, and
nearly 60% were 50 or older. Lastly, Bellingham residents
had the highest level of participation, accounting for more
than 50% of responses. This plan recommends that future
surveys employ creative strategies to improve participation
from a more diversified and representative population.
Key Findings:
Whatcom County residents are enthusiastic about their
parks and open spaces, with more than 95% having visited
a park or participated in a recreation program within the
last twelve months. More than 50% of responses indicated
either a high or highest satisfaction with conservation
and preservation efforts. Similar levels of satisfaction
were identified with access to a variety of trail facilities.
The high levels of satisfaction are indicative of why the
community has experienced and is expected to continue
to see significant growth. And although there's broad
support for current recreational facilities and resources,
the survey did reveal some shortcomings. Specifically, the
survey indicated that:
Community members are less satisfied with existing
access opportunities to the shoreline and waterfront.
Survey responses revealed a strong desire to improve salt
and freshwater access, especially with hand launch boat
facilities.
Equestrians, and ORV enthusiasts, are less satisfied with
trail opportunities than hikers and bicyclists. Additionally,
there is demand for longer distance cross-country trails,
and on -road bicycle routes that connect communities and
other regional attractions.
Making trails, and other recreational facilities accessible
to people of all abilities is highly important to community
members.
There is a need to improve access and overall conditions
of specific facilities including restrooms, parking areas,
picnic shelters, teen and youth activity centers, and senior
centers.
There is a common understanding that the current
inventory of recreational facilities will not be able to
keep up with demand as the population increases, and
some type of dedicated funding is necessary. The survey
indicated that charging a one-time fee that was tied to
housing development and exploring a Real Estate Excise
Tax (REET 3) were preferred over other revenue generating
options proposed.
Meet the Director Meetings
After joining WCPR in September of 2022, Parks Director
Bennett Knox conducted a series of meetings across
Whatcom County to introduce himself and engage with
the community. The meetings followed a Town Hall format
and held at a variety of locations including the Bellingham
Senior Activity Center, East Whatcom Regional Resource
Center, Hovander Homestead Park, Josh VanderYacht
Memorial Park, and Point Roberts. Approximately 100
community members participated in these meetings and
offered valuable insights into current facility conditions,
and desired future improvements.
Key Findings:
Not surprisingly, comments from participants of the
Director Meetings correlated closely of those of the online
survey. Areas of interest and concern can be categorized
into six focus areas including public engagement and
outreach, maintaining and enhancing existing WCPR
facilities, improving water access opportunities, enhancing
programming and partnership with other service
organizations, connecting communities and recreational
facilities with multi -modal trail facilities, and integrating
forest management and health into WCPR operational
mandate. Specific examples are included:
Public engagement and outreach — Enhance public
outreach opportunities to solicit community input and
engagement to improve recreational services to the
community. Utilize listening sessions and town hall format
meetings to build trust and mutual understanding of
disconnects between service offerings and community
needs and desires. Attend and participate in community
forums hosted by allied Whatcom County departments,
especially Public Works, Planning & Development Services,
and Health and Community Services.
Maintain and Enhance Existing Facilities — By making
additional investments in community facilities such as
improving air conditioning and ventilation and renovation
efforts at community facilities like the Senior Activity
Centers, East Whatcom Regional Resource Center, and
Van Zandt Community Hall. Add new facilities to satisfy
growing recreational demand such as off -leash dog parks,
pickleball, and disk golf.
Improve Water Access - By making facility improvements
to existing properties that fresh and/or saltwater natural
resources such as improving fishing access at Lighthouse
Marine Park, Samish Park, and Silver Lake Park.
Programming Opportunities — Restore seasonal community
gatherings at special use facilities like the Roeder Home,
Lighthouse Marine Park, and Hovander Park. Explore
opportunities to partner with other organizations to
increase community events and programs.
Multi -modal Community Connections — Expand off -road,
non -motorized community trail connections especially
parts of the county where pedestrian facilities are in
short supply like, the Columbia Valley, Kendall and Maple
Falls communities. Continue efforts to expand hiking and
cross-country trail connections especially within proximity
to population centers such as Lookout Mountain Forest
Preserve and Lake Whatcom Park.
Forest Management — Integrate sustainable forest
management into ongoing planning and operational efforts
to steward the highly valued forest resources currently
managed by WCPR. This is especially critical in forested
areas of the Lake Whatcom Watershed, Chuckanut
Mountain Park, and Canyon Lake Community Forest.
Partner with DNR and other land managers to develop a
countywide wildfire prevention and response plan.
WCPR Frontline Staff Feedback
An important source of community feedback is conveyed
directly to WCPR frontline staff. They present the public
face of the department and are mission critical to
the success of department operations. They are first
responders to a vast spectrum of issues and concerns
of the visiting public, and provide invaluable insight into
improving efficiencies and service delivery to customers.
The following lists needs and areas that should be
addressed to improve visitor experience, protection of
essential infrastructure, and environmental protection.
Key Findings
• Need improved and/or additional restroom
capacity: Silver Lake Park, Hovander Homestead
Park, Lake Whatcom Park, Maple Falls Community
Park, Lake Samish Park, and Birch Bay Beach Park
• Need additional surfaced parking capacity: Silver
Lake Park, Hovander Homestead Park, Samish Park
and Lake Whatcom Park
• Need parking lot resurfacing efforts focused on
reduction of gravel parking surfaces and improved
stormwater treatment at Jensen Family Nature
Reserve, Lake Whatcom Park, Lily Point Marine
Park, Lookout Mountain Forest Preserve, Stimpson
Family Nature Reserve, and Point Whitehorn
Marine Park
• Replacement of the high -bank stairway at Point
Whitehorn Marine Park
• Need entrance improvements and wider park
roads: Hovander Homestead Park, Lighthouse
Marine Park, and Silver Lake Park
• Need improvements to accessibility and more
opportunities for older adults in the parks system
due to an aging population
• Need informal youth playfields for team practice,
soccer, rugby, and other open field games: Bay
Horizon Park and East Whatcom Regional Resource
Center
• Need youth bicycle facilities, such as pump track or
skills course, at Silver Lake Park
• Need additional tournament grade fields to
compliment Northwest Soccer Fields and provide
additional capacity for future tournaments
• Need expansion of pickleball opportunities
throughout the parks system
• Need to address E-bike rules and regulations for
use of E-bikes on Department managed trails
• Improve availability of cellular network
connectivity at Silver lake Park
• Enhance availability of Wi-Fi at reservable facilities
and campgrounds throughout the parks system
Whatcom County Planning Commission
On December 14, 2023, WCPR staff provided a
presentation to the Planning Commission on the CPROS.
The presentation included a review of the purpose of
the plan, accomplishments achieved during the previous
planning period, and a summary of how the plan was
prepared. Following the presentation, a public hearing
was opened and several members of the public spoke
and provided comment. The comments received largely
related to facilities associated with the Bellingham
Sportsplex operated by the City of Bellingham and
Whatcom Sports & Recreation partnership. However, the
Planning Commission recommended that WCPR explore
opportunities to expand recreational services to include
indoor recreation. Similar comments submitted by email
were received by Planning & Development staff prior to
the Planning Commissions Meeting, and mirror comments
received from the On-line Survey (Appendix B).
WCPR recognizes indoor recreation demand is growing,
and concur that providing indoor recreation facilities
should be part of a long-term vision of meeting
recreational needs of the community. The benefits of such
facilities are self-evident, providing year-round recreational
opportunities, economic development, increased tourism,
and places where community members can come together
and build strong social bonds.
Although WCPR views the provision of indoor recreation
clearly benefiting the recreating public, existing resources
are insufficient to bring such facilities on line and would
require collaborative partnerships for both financial
backing and ongoing operations. WCPR will explore such
public and private partnerships to better understand the
feasibility of developing indoor recreation facilities over
this next planning period.
E. State and Regional Recreational Trends
Every 5 years, Washington State is required develop
a Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan
(SCORP) to be eligible to receive federal Land & Water
Conservation Funds (LWCF) for matching grants that
are made available for acquisition and development
of park and recreation facilities by local jurisdictions.
The Washington State Recreation and Conservation
Office (RCO) completed this plan in 2023. In it, RCO
includes updated information and statewide statistics on
recreational participation of recreation activities, projected
future demand, and recommendations that balance
meeting the recreating public's need while advancing land
and water conservation priorities.
Participation
One tool that was used to measure participation was
a random survey of Washington State residents across
a broad spectrum of outdoor recreation activities. The
survey asked participants what activities they participated
in and how many times they did participate in the prior
12 months. Individual activities were then categorized
into 10 activity categories. The aim of the survey was to
determine current recreation needs, and anticipate future
recreational demand. The top 10 outdoor activities are
listed in Table 3.3.
A closer evaluation of survey responses demonstrated
that participation rates increased considerably over the
prior recreational survey conducted in 2017, especially in
activities like Wildlife or nature viewing (+285vo); Paddle
sports (+28%); Visiting outdoor cultural or historical
facilities (+275vo); and Tent camping in undeveloped areas
(+26916), and Backpacking (+25%).
Experience
In addition to the participation survey, RCO conducted an
Outdoor Recreation Experience Survey that focused on
the quality of experience while investigating motivation,
barriers, ease of access, and other issues that influence the
quality of recreational experience.
The survey indicated that residents ranked Washington
State's ability to provide adequate areas for outdoor
recreation quite favorably with 75% of respondents
indicating a 4 or 5 star rating out of a 5-star scale.
Additional summary information and survey methods and
results can be reviewed online at: https://wa-rco-scorp-
2023-wa-rco.hub.arcgis.com/
TOP 10 OUTDOOR RECREATION ACTIVITIES IN WASHINGTON STATE
By participation rate - % of population, N = number of responses
ACTIVITY
ACTIVITY CATEGORY
%
N
Walking or Using Mobility Device on Roads or
Sidewalks
Trail- and Road -Based Activities
91
5390
Walking or Day Hiking or Using Mobility Device
on Trails
Trail- and Road -Based Activities
90
5331
Wildlife and Nature Viewing
Nature- and Culture -Based Activities
85
4812
Scenic Driving (Sightseeing)
Nature- and Culture -Based Activities
85
4767
Hanging Out
Leisure Activities in Parks
70
3679
Picnic, Barbecue, or Cookout
Leisure Activities in Parks
68
3639
Community Garden or Farmers' Market
Nature- and Culture -Based Activities
66 13556
Visiting Outdoor Cultural or Historical Facility, -
Includes Attending Cultural Events
Nature- and Culture -Based Activities
62
3413
Swimming in Natural Settings
Water -Based Activities
61
3374
Paddle Sports (Whitewater, Canoes, Kayaks,
Stand -Up Paddle Boards, Rowing)
Water -Based Activities
52
2910
Table 3.3: Washingon State Top 10 Outdoor Recreation Activites
Economic Development
µ`` _ Encourage economic development throughout the state
that is consistent with adopted comprehensive plans,
promote economic opportunity for all citizens of this
state, especially for unemployed and for disadvantaged
persons, promote the retention and expansion of existing
businesses and recruitment of new businesses, recognize
regional differences impacting economic development
opportunities, and encourage growth in areas experiencing
insufficient economic growth, and within the capacities of
the state's natural resources, public services, and public
facilities.
A. Comprehensive Planning
The Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan (WCCP) is
reviewed every 8 years and was last updated and adopted
by the County Council in 2016, and is currently undergoing
a series of updates and is scheduled for adoption in 2025.
The Comprehensive Plan is intended to guide growth in
unincorporated areas for the next 20 years in coordination
with city comprehensive plans. The fundamental purpose
of the Comprehensive Plan is to establish a framework
of goals and policies to guide growth, land use, capital
facility and transportation planning, and environmental
protection.
WCCP was developed pursuant to the Growth
Management Act (GMA) Planning Goals (RCW 36.70.020).
Under GMA, goals were adopted to guide the development
and adoption of comprehensive plans and development
regulations of those counties and cities that are required
or choose to plan under RCW 36.70A.040. The following
GMA planning goals pertain to parks, recreation and open
space:
Natural Resource Industries
Maintain and enhance natural resource -based industries,
including productive timber, agricultural, and fisheries
industries. Encourage the conservation of productive forest
lands and productive agricultural lands and water, and
discourage incompatible uses.
Open Space and Recreation
Retain open space, enhance recreational opportunities,
conserve fish and wildlife habitat, increase access to
natural resource lands and water, and develop parks and
recreation facilities.
Environment
Protect the environment and enhance the state's high
quality of life, including air and water quality, and the
availability of water.
Community Participation and Coordination
Encourage the involvement of the community in the
planning process and ensure coordination between
communities and jurisdictions to reconcile conflicts.
Public Facilities and Services
Ensure that those public facilities and services necessary
to support development shall be adequate to serve the
development at the time the development is available for
occupancy and use without decreasing current service
levels below locally established minimum standards.
Historic Preservation
Transportation
Identify and encourage the preservation of lands, sites,
Encourage efficient multimodal transportation systems and structures that have historical or archaeological
that are based on regional priorities and coordinated with significance
countv and citv comprehensive plans.
B. Adopted Goals and Policies
Within the Comprehensive plan there are chapters which
include goals, objectives, and associated policies that
apply to park, recreation and open space activities (see
also Appendix D). These include but are not limited to the
following:
CHAPTER 4 --- CAPITAL FACILITEIS
Achieve level of service targets for park and recreational
facilities. Support objectives and priorities identified in the
Comprehensive Park and Recreation Open Space Plan, in
the Natural Heritage Plan, and in this plan.
Ensure that capital facilities provide protection for
threatened and endangered fish and wildlife species
CHAPTER 6 - TRANSPORTATION
Develop a system of bicycle and pedestrian facilities that
encourages enhanced community access and promotes
healthy lifestyles and supports the recreational segments
of our economy.
CHAPTER 7 - ECONOMICS
Support increased public/private sector partnering among
all entities involved with economic development.
Ensure adequate infrastructure to support existing and
future business development and evolving technology.
Coordinate economic development with environmental,
resource, and other comprehensive land use and open
space policies and measures to enhance the community's
overall quality of life.
Enable a geographic balance for economic growth within
the capacities of the county's natural resources, natural
systems, public services, and public facilities.
CHAPTER 8 — RESOURCE LANDS
Preserve and enhance the cultural heritage that is related
to agriculture
Support the Department of Natural Resources to ensure
forest practices avoid adverse impacts to the habitat of
threatened and endangered fish and wildlife species and to
marine waters that support shellfish resources.
Conserve and enhance Whatcom County's marine land
base for the long-term and sustainable production of
commercial and recreational economic activities.
CHAPTER 9 - RECREATION
Address county -wide recreational needs by adequate
provision of regional parks.
Provide multi -use camping parks to serve county resident
needs as well as provide a tourism draw.
Expand outdoor recreation opportunities for county
residents by providing enjoyable trails for hiking, horseback
riding, bicycling, walking, boating, and other trail activities
in a safe environment.
Provide specialized recreation areas taking advantage of
unique opportunities to serve both county residents and
visitors.
Recognize the shoreline as one of Whatcom County's
unique assets and provide adequate physical and visual
access for present and future generations.
Coordinate with the DNR to provide ORV opportunities.
Encourage multi -use indoor activity centers to meet
the needs of the population using public and private
partnerships where possible.
As economically feasible, continue to implement the
Whatcom County Comprehensive Park, Recreation and
Open Space (CPROS Plan) goals and policies through
adoption of the Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan Six -
year Capital Improvement Program (CIP).
Develop a stronger financial base for recreational services.
To view the complete WCCP, and associated goals,
objectives and policies, the current WCCP can be accessed
online at:
https://www.whatcomcounty.us/1171/Current-
Comprehensive-Plan
C. CPROS Goals and Objectives
Recognizing that there are multiple entities and
jurisdictions within Whatcom County providing park and
recreation services, including city park and recreation
agencies and local park and recreation districts authorized
under RCW Chapter 36, WCPR has, heretofore, adopted a
"modified strategic approach" to regional or countywide
services whereby Whatcom County endeavors to assume
responsibility for functions no other agency or organization
can provide, and helps coordinate or support those
functions and activities that have other viable sponsors
and partners.
In principle, for example, WCPR may provide central
information and coordination services for open space,
trail, park facilities and recreational programs on a
countywide basis. Furthermore, WCPR may provide
planning and development assistance when there are no
other designated agencies or organization who can; the
activity involves siting controversies or environmental
consequences that may not be equitably resolved
otherwise within the Whatcom County urban growth or
community planning areas, or proposed developments
will be within city urban growth areas and thus potentially
annexed into corporate limits but currently subject to
Whatcom County authority.
As a further example, WCPR may further develop, operate
and maintain open space, trails, or park facilities and
recreational programs when:
• the facility will have broad benefits for a large
proportion of the countywide population and financed
using resident approved methods,
• facility development and operating costs will be
recaptured from direct charges of the populations who use
the facility, or
• facility development and operating costs will
be compensated in some manner through inter -local
agreements with the using agency, area or benefiting user
group, particularly where the demands will originate from
a regional service requirement, or
• the facility will generate economic benefits for the
area, or
• the site or facility has intrinsic value apart from
traditional operation and maintenance needs, like a
passive natural area or wetland preservation.
The following CPROS goals, objectives and actions are
longer -term and aspirational and remain relevant today.
They were developed as part of the 2008 CPROS planning
process and minimally updated in 2016. They are based on
a strategic approach to regional or countywide services, an
analysis of existing open space, trail, park, and recreation
conditions, and the results of workshop planning sessions
and surveys. These expand upon and compliment those
goals outlined in the WCCP, and referenced here to provide
additional direction and departmental guidance.
PRESERVES AND OPEN SPACE
Goal:
Provide protection for a diversified system of significant
and critical habitats and environmental areas that protect
threatened species, watersheds, migration corridors,
forestlands, tidelands, open spaces and scenic areas.
Objectives:
Assume a major responsibility for the planning,
coordination, and preservation of unique environmental
areas, floodplains, wetlands, wildlife habitat, open spaces,
agricultural lands, forestlands, and scenic areas.
Work with all other public and private agencies,
particularly the cities, Port of Bellingham, Washington
State Departments of Fish & Wildlife, Natural Resources,
and Transportation, and Whatcom County and Lummi
Island Land Trusts, among others, to create an effective
approach to the following regional conservation issues and
proposals.
Wildlife habitat
a: Identify and conserve critical wildlife habitat including
nesting sites, foraging areas, and migration corridors
within or adjacent to natural areas, open spaces, and the
developing urban areas — such as the Terrell Creek Heron
Colony and Tennant Lake Wildlife Area.
b: Preserve sensitive habitat sites that support threatened
species and urban wildlife habitat - including the saltwater
shorelines of Birch, Lummi and Bellingham Bays, Drayton
Harbor, and Chuckanut Bay, and the freshwater shorelines
of Silver Lake, Lake Whatcom and Lake Samish, and the
Nooksack and Lummi Rivers.
Natural areas
a: Preserve and protect significant environmental features
including unique wetlands, open spaces, woodlands,
shorelines, waterfronts and other characteristics that
support wildlife and reflect Whatcom County's resource
heritage — especially including the valleys of the North,
Middle, and South Forks of the Nooksack River.
b: Provide public access to environmentally sensitive areas
and sites that are especially unique to Whatcom County
—especially including Drayton Harbor, Bellingham Bay,
Chuckanut Bay, and Lummi and Portage Islands.
Forestlands
a: Identify and protect forest resources in Whatcom County
— including public and private forestlands that can provide
productive timber and other wood products. Develop
and utilize protective forest resource zoning districts and
designations, special tax incentives, public land ownership
and management, and other measures to preserve this
valuable resource.
b: Identify and conserve forest cover and the scenic
attributes woodlands provide between rural and urban
land uses especially including the viewscapes along the
Interstate 5/Lake Samish and SR-9 corridors and between
the Twin Sisters and Chuckanut Mountains (North
Cascades Corridor)
c: Identify and preserve prime examples of heritage
forestlands in Whatcom County —such as the old growth
forests in and around Canyon Lake Community Forest
and the extensive woodlands on Chuckanut, Lookout and
Stewart and Sumas Mountains.
Farmlands
a: Identify and protect agricultural resources in Whatcom
County including lands and soils that can provide
productive crop, livestock, and other agricultural
products. Develop and utilize protective farm resource
zoning districts and designations, special tax incentives,
development rights, public land ownership and
management, and other measures to preserve this
valuable resource.
b: Identify and conserve farmlands and the scenic
attributes agriculture provides between rural and urban
land uses — especially including the rural farm landscapes
in the valleys around Lynden, Sumas, and Nooksack.
c: Identify and preserve prime examples of heritage
farmsteads in Whatcom County — such as the Hovander
and Nesset Farms.
Open spaces
a: Define and establish a system of open space corridors or
separators to provide definition between natural areas and
urban land uses within Whatcom County's emerging urban
centers especially including the Nooksack River corridor
and delta, and the Interstate 5 and Lake Samish corridor.
b: Increase natural area and open space linkages within
the developing urban areas - particularly along the current
and former UP, NP, BN&SF, BB&BC, and BB&E Railroad
corridors.
GMA Optional Elementfor Whatcom County
Contains broad goals and policies, defines adopted
Levels of Service, and 6-year Capital Improvement Program.
CPROS Informs the Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan -
Documents public outreach, inventories department facilities.
Includes department Mission, Vision, Goals & Objectives,
Recommendations and Capitol Improvement Program.
Detailed Park and facility plans to meet goals and objectives.
Proiect Specific Detailed project specific park and facility improvements -
Construction Documents :;...plans, Specifications and Construction Cost Estimates.
Construction Documents F
Fig 4.1: CPROS Relation to Other Planning Documents
Urban growth preserves and set -asides
a: Cooperate with other public and private agencies, and
with private landowners to set -aside land and resources
necessary to provide high quality, convenient open space,
trail, and park facilities before the most suitable sites
are lost to development — particularly the lands around
Stewart, Lookout, and Chuckanut Mountains.
b: Preserve unique environmental features or areas in
future land developments and increase public use and
access. Cooperate with other public and private agencies,
and with private landowners to set aside unique features
or areas as publicly accessible resources — including
lands adjacent to Birch Bay State Park, Semiahmoo Spit,
Bellingham Airport, and Larrabee State Park.
HISTORICAL RESOURCES
Goal:
Assume a major responsibility for the planning,
coordination, and preservation of unique archaeological,
historical, cultural, scenic, and man-made places, sites,
landmarks, and vistas.
Objectives:
Work with all other public and private agencies,
particularly the cities, Port of Bellingham, Lummi Nation,
Nooksack Tribe, Whatcom County and Lummi Island Land
Trusts, Whatcom County and Washington State Historical
Societies, among others, to create an effective approach
to the following regional resource conservation issues and
proposals.
Historical features and interests:
a: Identify, preserve, and enhance Whatcom County's
multicultural heritage, traditions, and cultural features
including historical sites, buildings, artworks, views, and
monuments within park sites and historical districts.
b: Identify and incorporate significant historical and
cultural lands, sites, artifacts, and facilities into the open
space, trail, and park system to preserve these interests
and provide a balanced social experience —especially
including important Native American, railroad, mining,
logging, and shipping sites and places of interest.
c: Work with Washington State and Whatcom County
Historical Societies, and other archaeological and cultural
groups to incorporate historical and cultural activities into
park developments and recreational programs.
Manmade environments and features
a: Incorporate interesting manmade environments,
structures, activities, and areas into the open space, trail,
and park system to preserve these features and provide
a balanced recreational experience — especially including
Military Road and Guide Meridian, the UP, NP, BB&BC,
BB&E Railroads and Interurban Trolley, Steamer and
Mosquito Fleet landings, and sawmills and mines.
b: Work with property and facility owners to increase
public access and utilization of these special sites and
features.
TRAILS, GREENWAYS AND SCENIC BYWAYS
Goal:
Plan, develop and operate a system of on and off -road
regional trails. Regional trail facilities may include fresh
and saltwater trails, off -road hike, bike, and horse trails,
on -road bicycle touring routes and scenic drives, and cross-
country ski and snowmobile trails that are directly related
to environmental resources that are of most interest to
county residents.
Objectives:
Work with all other public and private agencies,
particularly the cities, Port of Bellingham, Washington
State Departments of Fish & Wildlife, Natural Resources,
and Transportation, Washington State Parks & Recreation
Commission, US Forest Service, and National Park Service,
to develop and maintain the following integrated system of
regional trails.
Water, trails -- non -motorized craft
a: Incorporate and extend the Cascade Marine Trail, a
saltwater trail network for hand -carry or car -top craft
including canoes and kayaks, extending from British
Columbia and through Puget Sound, with launch sites into
Drayton Harbor, Birch, Lummi, Bellingham, and Chuckanut
Bays, with access to Lummi and Portage Islands.
b: Develop a freshwater trail network for hand -carry or car -
top craft including launch sites for canoes and kayaks that
extends the length of the Nooksack River from Maple Falls
and Deming to Bellingham Bay, and Lake Whatcom.
c: Designate appropriate bad weather pull ins and
overnight camping locations along the major saltwater trail
routes — including Lighthouse Marine Park, Semiahmoo
Spit, Birch Bay State Park, Cherry Point, Lummi and Portage
Islands, and Larrabee State Park, among others. Designate
overnight camping locations along the major freshwater
route on the Nooksack River - including Deming, Nugent's
Corner River Access, Lynden, Hovander Homestead Park,
among others, and along the shoreline of Lake Whatcom.
d: Develop and operate canoe, kayak, crew, and other non -
motorized craft instruction, rental, and storage facilities at
major freshwater locations — including Silver and Samish
Lakes and Lake Whatcom.
On -road rural and scenic byways -- vehicles and bicycle
touring
a: Identify a countywide system of rural and backcountry
scenic driving routes and byways that access and
highlight the scenic, environmental, farmland, and
historical attributes of Whatcom County — especially
including Drayton Harbor and Birch Bay, Lummi Island
and Bellingham Bay, Chuckanut, Lake Samish, and Lake
Whatcom Drives, South Pass Road, SR-9 and the Mount
Baker Highway. Integrate the countywide system with
other state and federal byways through the North
Cascades, Skagit and Island Counties.
b: Develop a series of roadside rest stops, viewpoints,
interpretive exhibits, and byway signage systems that
integrate the scenic routes with specific historical, cultural,
environmental, and scenic points of interest —such as
Semiahmoo Spit in Drayton Harbor, Sandy Point in Lummi
Bay, Lummi Island and Chuckanut Island in Chuckanut Bay,
among others.
c: Integrate byway routes and points of interest to access
parks, public facilities, museums and historical sites,
and business districts — especially in Blaine, Ferndale,
Bellingham, Lynden, Nooksack, Sumas, Kendall, and the
Mount Baker Highway.
d: For bicycle touring enthusiasts, designate appropriate
overnight bicycle camping locations along the major routes
and byways —such as Lighthouse Marine Park, Hovander
Homestead Park, Silver Lake Park, Birch Bay State Park, and
Larrabee State Park, among others.
Off -road trail systems
a: Create a comprehensive system of off -road hike,
bike, and horse trails that access scenic, environmental,
historical, and open space attributes of Whatcom County
— especially including the Nooksack River, original UP, NP,
BB&BC, BB&E railroad corridors, old logging and mining
roads, and where appropriate, within the road rights -of
way, as well as across cooperating private properties where
appropriate.
b: Develop a series of trailheads, trailside rest stops,
viewpoints, interpretive exhibits, and trail signage systems
that integrate the off -road hike, bike, and horse trails with
specific historical, cultural, environmental, and scenic
points of interest — such as former steam boat landings,
fish traps, sawmills, mining sites, farmsteads, railroads, and
roads, among others.
c: Integrate continuous off -road trail corridors and local
spur or loop routes with parks, public facilities, museums
and historical sites, and business districts in cities.
d: For overnight trail users, develop appropriate overnight
camping locations along the major trail corridors — such
as Hovander Homestead Park, Silver Lake Park, Birch Bay
State Park, and Larrabee State Park, among others.
e: Furnish off -road trails with appropriate supporting
trailhead improvements that include interpretive and
directory signage systems, rest stops, restrooms, parking
and loading areas, water, and other services.
f: Where appropriate, locate trailheads at or in conjunction
with park sites, schools, and other community facilities to
increase local area access to countywide trail systems and
reduce duplication of supporting improvements.
g: Where appropriate, install telephones, emergency call
boxes, or other means by which trail users can summon
fire, emergency aid, police, and other safety and security
personnel should the need arise.
h: Develop trail improvements of a design and
development standard that is easy to maintain and
access by maintenance, security, and other appropriate
personnel, equipment, and vehicles.
Winter trails
a: Designate a system of appropriate winter cross-country
skiing and snowmobiling trails that access safe and secure
back roads, trail corridors, parks, and public and private
lands in Whatcom County —including Black Mountain
Ranch, Canyon Lake, and Skookum Creek. Link the county
winter trails system with the more extensive winter trails
networks designated on US Forest Service and National
Park Service lands in the Mount Baker/Snoqualmie
National Forest and North Cascades National Park.
Off road vehicle and ATV
a: Identify, and when and where appropriate, provide
coordination for off -road motorcycle, ATV, and 4-wheel
drive vehicle riding courses, trails, and areas in Whatcom
County.
REGIONAL PARKS AND WATER ACCESS
Goal:
Plan, develop, manage and operate a system of Regional
Parks. These facilities may include resource -oriented
activities including fishing sites, boat access ramps,
swimming beaches, picnicking areas, and campgrounds
that are directly related to environmental and historical
resources that are of countywide interest to residents.
Objectives:
Work with all other public and private agencies,
particularly the Port of Bellingham, Washington State
Departments of Fish & Wildlife and Natural Resources,
Washington State Parks & Recreation Commission, US
Forest Service, and National Park Service, to develop and
operate the following appropriate resource park facilities.
Wateffro11t access avid facilities
a: Acquire and develop additional salt and freshwater
shoreline access for waterfront fishing, beachcombing,
wading, swimming, and other related recreational
activities and pursuits — especially including sites on
Drayton Harbor, Birch, Lummi, and Bellingham Bays, Silver
Lake, Lake Whatcom, Lake Samish, and the Nooksack River.
b: Develop a mixture of salt and freshwater non -motorized
and powerboat access opportunities — especially including
additional sites and improvements to existing properties
on Drayton Harbor, Lummi Island, Birch and Bellingham
Bays, Lake Whatcom and Samish, and the Nooksack River.
Picnicking and day -use activities
a: Acquire and develop additional countywide picnic
sites, shelters, and day -use group picnic grounds and
camps at major resource parks and along major off -road
trail corridors throughout Whatcom County — especially
including sites on Point Roberts, Semiahmoo Spit, Birch
Bay, Cherry Point, Lummi Island, Lake Whatcom and
Samish, South Pass, and at intervals along the Nooksack
River including Hovander Homestead Park.
Campgrounds and retreats
a: Acquire and develop a countywide system of tent,
recreational vehicle, yurt, cabin, lodge, and retreat
facilities at major resource parks and along major off -road
trail corridors throughout Whatcom County — especially
including sites on Point Roberts, Cherry Point, Lakes
Whatcom and Samish, Acme, and at intervals along the
Nooksack River.
SPECIAL USE AREAS AND FACILITIES
Goal:
Assist with the planning of special use areas such as
athletic parks, community centers. These facilities may
include competitive soccer, softball, and baseball, rugby
and La Crosse fields, meeting and activity centers and
special enterprises that are of countywide interest.
Objectives:
Help coordinate and assist other public and private
agencies cities, school and park districts, nonprofits and
sports leagues and commissions. Such coordination
will seek to site and sponsor development of major
competitive outdoor athletic facilities, centers and facilities
for all age and skill groups within reasonable geographic
service areas of major population centers.
Athletic fields
a: Identify and help plan a network of sites that can be
developed (such as soccer, softball, and baseball fields)
that meet the highest quality competitive practice and
playing standards and requirements for all age groups, skill
levels, and recreational interests —including new possible
sites at Bay Horizon Park, East Whatcom Regional Resource
Center, Ferndale and Mt Baker Highway/Nooksack.
Community centers
a: Designate a network of multipurpose community
centers that can be developed to provide arts and crafts,
music, video, classroom instruction, meeting facilities,
eating and health care, daycare, latch key, and other
spaces for all age groups including preschool, youth, teens,
and seniors on a year-round basis.
b: Support the continued development and diversification
by the Whatcom County school districts and other
organizations of special meeting, assembly, and other
community facilities that provide general support to
school age populations and the community -at -large at
elementary, middle, and high schools within Whatcom
County urban growth and community planning areas.
c: Develop special outdoor cultural and performing arts
facilities that enhance and expand music, dance, drama,
cultural and historical interpretations, and other audience
and participatory opportunities for the county -at -large —
including a festival events area at Hovander Homestead
Park.
Special enterprises
a: Where appropriate and economically feasible (self-
supporting), designate and support operation of
specialized and special interest recreational facilities like
canoe and crew houses, equestrian centers, gun ranges,
historical museums and exhibits, retreats and conference
centers for these interests in the general population.
b: Where appropriate, initiate joint planning and operating
programs with other public and private agencies to
determine and provide for special activities like marinas,
ATV and off -road vehicle courses, and camping on a
regional basis.
RECREATIONAL AND INTERPRETIVE PROGRAMS
Goal:
Coordinate, assist, and when feasible, program and
operate recreational and interpretive programs and
outreach activities of special interest to or benefit for
county residents at county park sites and community
centers.
Objectives:
Coordinate, promote, and link an integrated recreational
program system with other public, non-profit, and for -
profit agencies, organizations, and vendors. Such programs
may include athletic leagues and sports, teen and senior
age groups, and special populations where these activities
are of major interest and benefit to county residents of all
ages.
Recreational and interpretive programs
a: Organize and sponsor the operation of environmental,
historical, cultural, and recreational programs providing
instruction, volunteerism, and participation in habitat
restoration, water -based recreation, trail development and
security, interpretation programs, summer and day -camps,
maintenance, and other site -specific activities at Whatcom
County parks sites and properties.
b: Create a central access point and clearinghouse for
arts and crafts, classroom instruction in music and dance,
physical conditioning and health care, meeting facilities,
daycare, latch key, and other program activities for all
cultural, age, physical and mental capability, and income
groups in Whatcom County.by all agencies and vendors
including the county.
c: Designate and land bank appropriate sites, and help
facilitate development agreements and clearinghouse
access to user and league organizations to operate
basketball, volleyball, tennis, soccer, baseball, softball, and
other instruction and participatory programs for all age,
skill level, and income groups in Whatcom County.
d: Assist historical and cultural societies to develop and
display artifacts, reports, and exhibits; and conduct
lectures, classes, and other programs that document and
develop awareness of Whatcom County's heritage at
county park sites and properties.
CULTURAL ARTS PROGRAMS
Goal:
Help facilitate, organize, coordinate, and selectively
develop high quality, diversified cultural arts facilities
and programs that increase awareness, attendance, and
participation opportunities at Whatcom County parks and
properties.
Objectives:
Programs
a: Support successful collaborations between public
agencies, the business community, service groups, schools,
arts patrons, and artists that optimally utilize artistic
resources and talents at Whatcom County parks and
properties.
Artworks
a: Where appropriate, incorporate public artworks
including paintings, sculptures, exhibits, and other media
for indoor and outdoor display to expand resident access
and appropriately furnish public places in Whatcom County
parks and properties.
DESIGN AND ACCESS STANDARDS FOR
SUSTAINABILITY
Goal:
Design and develop facilities that are accessible, safe, and
sustainable with life cycle features that account for long-
term costs and benefits.
Objectives:
Accessibility
a: Design outdoor picnic areas, trails, playgrounds, courts,
fields, parking lots, restrooms, and other active and
supporting facilities to be accessible to individuals and
organized groups of all physical capabilities, skill levels, age
groups, income, and activity interests.
b: Design indoor facility spaces, activity rooms, restrooms,
hallways, parking lots, and other active and supporting
spaces and improvements to be accessible to individuals
and organized groups of all physical capabilities, skill levels,
age groups, income, and activity interests.
Maintenance
a: Design, retrofit, and develop facilities that are of low
maintenance and high capacity design to reduce overall
facility maintenance and operation requirements and
costs.
b: Where appropriate, incorporate low maintenance
materials, settings or other value engineering
considerations that reduce care and security requirements,
and retain natural conditions and experiences.
Security and safety
a: Implement the provisions and requirements of the
American Disabilities Act (ADA) and other design and
development standards that improve park facility
safety and security features for park users, department
personnel, and the public -at -large.
b: Develop and implement safety standards, procedures,
and programs that provide proper training and awareness
for department personnel.
c: Define and enforce rules and regulations concerning
park activities and operations that protect user groups,
department personnel, and the general public -at large.
d: Where appropriate, use adopt -a -park programs, park
watches, park police patrols, technology and other
innovative programs that increase safety and security
awareness and visibility.
FINANCIAL RESOURCES AND COORDINATION
Goal:
Create effective and efficient methods of acquiring,
developing, operating and maintaining Whatcom County
facilities and programs that accurately distribute costs and
benefits to public and private interests.
Objectives:
Finance
a: Investigate innovative available methods, such as growth
impact fees, land set -a -side or fee -in -lieu -of -donation
ordinances, and inter -local agreements, for the financing
of facility development, maintenance, and operating needs
in order to reduce costs, retain financial flexibility, match
user benefits and interests, and increase facility services.
b: Consider joint ventures with other public and private
agencies including the cities, school districts, regional,
state, federal, and other public and private agencies
including for -profit concessionaires, where feasible and
desirable.
Public and private resource coordination
a: Create a comprehensive, balanced open space, trail,
park, and recreation system that integrates Whatcom
County facilities and services with resources available
from the cities, school districts, and other regional, state,
federal, and private park and recreational lands and
facilities in a manner that will best serve and provide for
Whatcom County resident interests.
b: Cooperate with the cities, school districts, regional,
state, and federal, and other public and private agencies to
avoid duplication, improve facility quality and availability,
reduce costs, and represent resident area interests through
joint planning and development efforts.
Cost/benefit assessment
a: Define existing and proposed land and facility levels -of -
service (ELOS PLOS) that differentiate requirements due
to population growth impacts versus improved facility
standards, regional versus local nexus of benefit, county
versus the combination of city, county, school, and other
provider agency efforts in order to effectively plan and
program open space, trails, parks, and recreation needs
within Whatcom County.
b: Create effective and efficient methods of acquiring,
developing, operating, and maintaining open space, trail,
park, and recreational facilities in manners that accurately
distribute costs and benefits to public and private user
interests - including the application of growth impact fees
where new developments impact potential level of -service
(ELOS) standards inside urban growth and community
planning areas.
c: Develop and operate recreational programs that serve
the broadest needs of the population recovering program
and operating costs with a combination of registration fees,
user fees, grants, sponsorships, donations, scholarships,
volunteer efforts, and the use of general funding.
d: Where appropriate, provide recreational programs,
like equestrian centers, boating facilities, gun ranges, and
retreat and conference facilities for those interested groups
who are willing to finance the cost through user fees,
registration fees, volunteer efforts, or other means and
methods.
HUMAN RESOURCES
Goal:
Develop, train, and support a professional open space,
trail, park, and recreation staff that effectively serves
Whatcom County in the realization of the above listed
goals and objectives.
Objectives:
Personnel
a: Employ a diverse, well -trained workforce that is
motivated to achieve department and countywide goals.
b: Encourage teamwork through communications,
creativity, positive image, risk taking, sharing of resources,
and cooperation toward common goals.
c: Where appropriate, provide staff with education,
training, technology, equipment and supplies to increase
personal productivity, efficiency, and pride.
LOCAL PARKS
Goal:
Recognizing the fact that local parks such as neighborhood
and Community parks are primarily the responsibility of
the Cities and Park Districts, Whatcom County will continue
to assist local and rural communities in the development of
these park areas when resources permit.
Objectives:
a. County will not add any neighborhood parks to it
inventory.
b. Neighborhood and Community parks in the current
inventory will be transferred to the cities upon annexation.
c. County will continue to work with rural communities
and UGXs in development of community parks when
community sponsorship and cost sharing for development
and maintenance is a major component.
The period following adoption of the 2016 CPROS update
was one of tremendous change for the WCPR beginning
with the onset of the COVID-19 global pandemic in
the spring of 2019 and through a period of significant
management -level staff vacancies that was not resolved
until the spring of 2023. Key vacancies included the
Department's Design and Development Supervisor
(nineteen months), a Regional Parks Supervisor (one year),
and the Department Director (three months). During this
period, the Department experienced a significant increase
in visitation and demands for park services stemming
from changing recreation patterns as a result of COVID-19.
And, as a result of staffing deficiencies, the Department
fell significantly behind on capital project completion
and planning efforts, including a timely update of the
Department's CPROS plan.
In response to Departmental staffing needs identified
during this period, in 2023, two additional positions were
created and filled. These included a Parks Project Manager
intended to support capital project implementation and
a Parks Supervisor to support regional park operations.
Entering calendar year 2024, the Department has made
progress to alleviate its backlog of capital construction
and repair projects; has adjusted the schedule of planned
capital project and park planning efforts identified in the
Department's Capital Improvement Plan; and has identified
potential department capacity and organizational structure
needs to address care of existing facilities while positioning
to face emerging strategic priorities. Emerging priorities
include improving community engagement, undertaking
forest management planning and implementation, and
advancing multi -modal regional trail projects.
With the support of the Whatcom County Parks and
Recreation Advisory Council, the WCPR is undertaking a
two-step process in the short- to mid-term to 1) update
the Department's lapsed CPROS plan to reflect shorter -
term objectives and to renew eligibility for relevant RCO
grant application and 2) to lay the ground work for a
subsequent and more substantial CPROS plan renewal that
includes a robust and thorough inventory and analysis that
focuses on communitywide outreach efforts especially
targeting underrepresented communities well in advance
of the required 6-year renewal term.
A. Projects Completed Since 2016 CPROS Plan
Approval
Before discussion of present needs and recommendations,
it is important to acknowledge the progress WCPR has
made in completing priority projects that were identified in
the last CPROS plan (January 2016). These efforts included
planning initiatives and capital facility improvements.
Below is a brief summary of projects completed during the
previous planning period.
Planning Initiatives
Lookout Mountain Forest Preserve and Lake Whatcom Park
Recreational Trail Plan (2016)
Birch Bay Beach Park Master Plan (2017)
Capital Construction Projects
Silver Lake Park— Beginning in 2016, a major park
improvement and rehabilitation effort has been underway.
Department staff evaluated existing conditions and
prioritized a suite of capital projects. To date the following
projects have been completed:
Park entrance road and day -use parking
reconstruction (2018)
Maple Creek Campground Renovation (2019)
Red Mountain Campground Shower & Restroom
Improvements (2021)
Maple Creek Campground Shower & Restroom
Facility (2023)
Samish Park —Playground Renovation (2016)
Lighthouse Marine Park — Playground Renovation (2019),
Boardwalk Renovation (2018)
Maple Creek 'ark — Bicycle and Pedestrian Bridge
Replacement (2018)
i_ummi Island Overlook — Deck and Shoreline Access Stair
Improvements (2018)
Ne.sset Farm — Farmhouse Foundation and Structure
Stabilization (2017)
Serniahmoo Park — Restroom and Concession Building
Improvements (2018)
Lookout Mountain Forest Preserve -Trail and
Construction and Wayfinding Signage Improvement Project
(2018)
Lake Whatcom Park — Trail and Construction and
Wayfinding Signage Improvement Project (2019)
B. Needs and Recommendations
The following recommendations and needs have been
determined through a combination of interactive processes
which included public participation in planning charrettes,
community and web -based and customer surveys, staff
and stakeholder input, public comment and input received
during past planning efforts.
System -wide or Regional Initiatives
The following are system -wide or regional level needs that
have been identified through the plan's Inventory, and
Demand & Need analysis:
1. Maintain and improve existing parks, facilities and
trails
2. Provide more and better restrooms throughout the
parks system
3. Provide better road, way finding and trail signage
throughout parks system
4. Complete planning and trail development of
reconveyance areas
5. Provide better trail connectivity (existing parks,
trails and communities)
6. Provide activities, play fields and facilities for youth
in East County
7. Continue efforts working with community partners
to develop major multi -use trails
8. Leverage road ends and available key properties
throughout Whatcom County to improve water
access opportunities
9. Improve accessibility at existing parks and trails
and provide less strenuous activities for older
adults
10. Provide more opportunities for Mountain Biking
within the parks system
11. Increase Public access to the shoreline (saltwater
and freshwater)
12. Install energy systems upgrade, (e.g. rooftop solar
arrays, electric vehicle charging stations, etc.)
13. Develop capacity to address forest management,
particularly within the Lake Whatcom watershed
14. Develop policies to address emerging issues (e.g.,
electric bikes, non -sanctioned trail construction,
forest fire response).
Site -Specific Recommended Improvements
Appendix C contains an extensive list of site -specific needs
categorized by park facility, which is subject to continued
modification and refinement. The list of identified needs is
substantial. Prioritization is required and should focus on
protection of existing facilities.
Capitol Improvement Program
Figure 5.1 presents the approved 2023-2028 Capital
Improvement Program (CIP) for Parks, Trails, and Activity
Centers (adopted Jun 20, 2023). This approved CIP includes
some projects that were not completed as scheduled in
2022 and have therefore moved forward into 2023/2024.
These include the Stimpson Family Nature Reserve parking
improvements, Lighthouse Marine Parks siding and roofing
repairs as well as HVAC replacement and upgrade at the
WCPR headquarters. It is also expected that the Silver Lake
Lodge roof replacement will necessarily move forward to
be completed in 2024.
The CIP includes the following strategic park improvement
projects through 2028:
• Complete HVAC replacement and upgrade, and
remediation of Plantation Rifle Range;
• Continuation of improvements to Silver Lake
Park including, but not limited to, the next phase
of restroom/shower improvements at Cedar
Campground, Group Camp, and improvements to
the cabins and day lodge facilities;
• Repairs to the Lookout Mountain road system
resulting from past storm damage;
• Replacement and upgrade of the HVAC system at
the Bellingham Senior Center, in coordination with
facility visioning being spearheaded by the Council
on Aging;
• Improvements associated with South Fork Park
(including Nesset Farm) pending tribal consultation
and discussions with other key stakeholders,
including DNR and the Nesset Foundation;
• Implementation of trail and trailhead
improvements outlined in the 2016 Lookout
Mountain Forest Preserve and Lake Whatcom Park
Recreational Trail Plan;
• Renovation of the Van Zandt Community Hall;
• Implementation of phase I of Birch Bay Beach Park
development.
The CIP includes a number of other strategic planning
projects. These include an allocation for the first phase of
forest management planning for County -owned properties
Adopted June 20, 2023
-Year CIP
'Table 4. Park, Trail, and Activity Center Projects
Funding
Proiect # and Name
Source
2023
2024
2425
3026
2027 202$
Totals
1 Plantation Range Lead Reclamation & Stormwater
1,7
700,000
655,500
1,355,500
2 Silver Lake Shower& Restroom Buildings
1
1,850,000
200,000
1,000,000
1,150,000
4,200,000
3 Silver Lake Park- Lodge Roof Replacement
1
231,000
231,000
4 Hovander Barn Paintworks
1
147,400
147,400
5 Lookout Mountain - Road System Storm Damage Repairs
1, 2, 3, 4
100,016
560,000
660,016
6 Silver Lake Residence Demolition
1
61,800
61,800
7 Hovander Residence Demolition
1
55,500
55,500
8 Bellingham Senior Center HVAC Replace & Upgrade
1,5
94,000
772,000
866,000
9 Aiston Preserve Access Improvements
1
50,000
50,000
10 Lookout Mtn Forest Preserve Parking improvements
1
124,100
124,100
11 Bay Horizon Hostel Demolition
1
493,000
493,000
12 Silver Lake Cabin & Lodge Renovations
1
121,242
62,458
183,700
13 Hovander Picnic Shelters
1
66,700
374,OSO
440,750
14 Parks Headquarters Parking & Pedestrian Improvements
1
77,300
295,100
372,400
15 Hovander - Flood Repair& Mitigation Improvements
1
80,000
182,000
262,000
16 Tennant Lk Interpretive Ctr Remodel & Flood Mitigation
1,2
67,000
437,500
504,500
17 South Fork Park Bridges& Connector Trail
1
132,500
149,200
306,800 273,800
862,300
18 Lily Point Marine Park Parking Improvements
1
254,900
254,900
19 Lake Whatcom Trail Development
1
392,150
264,500
241,500 189,750
1,087,900
20 Lake Whatcom Park Trailhead
1
500,000
3,339,000
3,839,000
21 Nesset Farm Improvements
5
152,500
845,000
997,500
22 Hovander Park Access Improvements
1
250,000
225,000
1,925,000
2,400,000
23 Hertz Trail Capital Maintenance
1
353,500
353,500
24 Ferndale Senior Center HVAC Replace & Upgrade
1
335,000
335,000
25 Maple Falls Park Trailhead
1
200,000 825,000
1,025,000
26 Samish Park Parking/Vehicular Circulation Improvements
1
75,000 250,000
325,000
27 South Fork Park Loop Trail Improvements
1
276,600
276,600
28 Birch Bay Beach Park Development
1, 3, 5, 6, 7
260,000
5,105,000
5,365,000
29 Parks Construction Supervisor
1
50,000
50,000
50,000
50,000
50,000 50,000
300,000
30 Bellingham Senior Center- Sewer Line Replacement
1
50,000
50,000
31 Semiahmoo Park Sewage Pump Replacement
1
50,000
50,000
32 Hovander Rental Property Conversion to Maintenance Shop
1
65,000
65,000
130,000
33 Forest Management Plan
3
25,000
75,000
100,000
34 Comprehensive Parks, Recreation, Open Space Plan Update
1
50,000
50,000
100,000
35 Van Zandt Community Hall Renovation
1,7
100,000
452,000
552,000
36 Plantation Indoor Range Targeting System Replacement
7
100,000
360,000
460,000
37 Canyon Lake Community Forest Access -related Improvements
1
100,000
50,000
150,000
38 Miscellaneous Parks Capital Improvements
1
100,000
100,000
100,000
100,000
100,000 100,000
600,000
39 Sumas Senior Center- Roof Replacement
1
25,ODO
25,000
40 Stimpson Family Nature Reserve Parking Lot Improvements
1
92,086
92,086
41 Lighthouse Marine Park Siding and Roofing
1
168,350
168,350
42 Hovander Park Master Plan
1
275,000
275,000
43 Parks Admin Office HVAC Replacement & Upgrade
1
93,623
93,623
Parks Totals
4,158,775
4,178,142
4,165,308
12,909,750
2,898,300 1,965,150
30,275,425
Funding Sources:
1. Real Estate Excise Tax (REET)
2. Federal Emergency Management Agency(FEMA)
3. Parks Special Revenue Fund
4. Conservation Futures Funds
5. Donations
6. Lodging Tax (Hotel -Motel Tax)
7. Grants
Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan F-9
Figure 5.1: Capital Improvement Program - Park, Trail and Activity Center
in the Lake Whatcom watershed (e.g., Lookout Mountain
Forest Preserve and Lake Whatcom Park). This work is
schedule to commence in 2024. The CIP also includes
funding for development of a master plan for Hovander
Park and Tennant Lake. This effort is a strategic priority for
the WCPR given the current number projects identified at
Hovander Park and the need to ensure they are considered
in conjunction with other Park and community goals
that may be served by improvements to Hovander and
Tennant Lake facilities. The CIP also includes as a priority
reestablishing public access to Canyon Lake Community
Forest following a prolonged period where public access
has been unavailable. Finally, as referenced in the
introduction to this Chapter, the CIP includes preparation
of a more robust CPROS update for the Department in the
2024-2025 timeframe.
Community -focused Park Planning
Moving forward, WCPR will seek to improve its focus
on park planning that incorporates more robust and
intentional public outreach and stakeholder engagement.
Such an approach, while requiring more effort promises
to result in better decision making and ultimately better
use of public resources. The WCCP Six -year CIP includes
projects located within communities such as Birch Bay,
Point Roberts, east county (Kendall, Maple Falls, Glacier),
Acme Valley, Lake Whatcom, Ferndale, and Bellingham.
Each of these communities has unique needs and concerns
as well as unique stakeholders. Planning undertaken by
WCPR should support broader community goals related
to protection of cultural and natural resources, tourism
and economic development, health and wellness, and
equity and should also be informed by the needs of these
specific communities. WCPR planning should involve local
community stakeholders and be complementary and
supportive of other planning efforts otherwise impacting
these communities.
A priority for WCPR during the next six years is to advance
a number of planning efforts associated with Regional Park
assets. These efforts should include robust stakeholder
and public engagement and include early engagement
with Tribal representatives. With staff capacity limitations,
certain planning efforts such as the future CPROS
update, Hovander Park Master Plan, Plantation Rifle
Range redevelopment, Lake Whatcom watershed Forest
Management Plan, Lake Whatcom Lighthouse Marine
Park, Dittrich Park/Samish Park, and Lake Whatcom
Trailhead development are envisioned to be consultant
supported. Other planning efforts, which more conceptual
in nature may be facilitated solely by WCPR planning staff,
depending upon availability and capacity These include
planning associated with regional trail development
(e.g., Nooksack Loop (potential rail -trail), Bay to Baker
connections in east county, and South Fork Park/Nesset
Farm trail connections.
Major Planning Initiatives
The following is a list of the major planning
initiatives for WCPR over the short- to mid-term
(with estimated start date, if available):
1. Hovander Homestead Park Master Plan- (2024)
2. Lake Whatcom Watershed Forest Management
Plan (2024)
3. Comprehensive Parks Recreation and Open Space
Plan (2025)
4. Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan (Chapter 9
Recreation) 2025
5. Lake Whatcom Park Trailhead Improvement Final
Design (2025)
6. Birch Bay Beach Park Phase I Final Design (2025)
7. Dittrich Park/Samish Park Master Plan (TBD)
8. South Fork Park/Nesset Farm trail connections
(TBD)
9. East County Bay to Baker Trail Connections (TBD)
Major Acquisitions Identified
In addition to the planning initiatives identified above,
the following are priority acquisitions that WCPR should
pursue should opportunities and resources be available.
1. Acquire remaining 14 acres at South end of Hertz
Trail to link with Blue Canyon Road
2. Provide more public access to fresh and saltwater,
Nooksack River and area beaches
3. Acquire critical habitats, watersheds and historical
sites of special concern to the County
4. Acquire a small boat launch access on Lummi
Island
5. Acquire a regional park in the north central area of
the County
6. Acquire Plantation Rifle Range property and buffer
area
7. Acquire public trail easements/trailheads for Bay
to Baker, Nooksack, Nooksack Loop and Coast
Millennium Trails, Bellingham to Baker.
8. Acquire easements for key connectors on existing
trail systems
9. Acquire public access at Cherry Point
10. Acquire DNR commercial property adjoining
Stimpson Family Nature Reserve
11. Acquire DNR property or public easement on
Nooksack River for a designated raft take out area -
Maple Falls
12. Work with WLT to acquire and develop Governor's
Point
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7,
40 Property Acquistions
I:\P&D\GIS\2014 GIS\CountyWide\CompPlan\MapDocuments\PropMap_acq_190916.md
C. Funding Sources
Successful implementation of this plan will require
community buy in, partnerships, and dedicated funding
resources. WCPR does currently have some dedicated
funding sources that are leveraged to purchase lands,
make capital improvements, and used as matching dollars
for some forms of grant funding. These funding sources
include:
• REET I: Used for funding improvements projects in
parks and non -park facilities such as senior activity centers
and Plantation Rifle Range.
• REET II: Used for capital improvement projects in
the parks.
• Conservation Futures Fund: Used for acquisition of
parks and natural areas.
• Parks Special Revenue: Used for restricted
and committed revenues used to fund maintenance ,
operation, and parks improvements;
• Nesset Foundation: Private foundation holding
funds for the restoration, improvement and operation of
the Nesset Farm located at South Fork Park.
• Whatcom Parks & Recreation Foundation: Private
foundation holding funds from donations used for various
park improvements and programs.
Grant funding sources include:
• State: Department of Natural Resources,
Department of Ecology, Department of Fish & Wildlife, and
the Recreation and Conservation Office
• Federal (may be administered through state
agencies or the Whatcom Council of Governments):
Coastal Management, Federal Highway Administration
(Transportation Alternatives), National Park Service, U.S.
Fish & Wildlife Agency, and the U.S. Forest Service.
Other funding sources that may be considered to
implement recommendations in this plan are: 1) Federal
Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) disaster relief
reimbursement funds and 2) the Lodging and Hotel Tax
which is a special assessment allowed in RCW 67.28.1816
that allows imposing a tax on overnight stays within the
established Whatcom County Tourism Promotion Area
(TPA).
Maintenance and operations are achieved through a
variety of sources and strategies which include general
funds, user fees, cooperative agreements, volunteers,
private/public partnerships and licenses. Additionally,
a portion of the Conservation Futures Fund is used to
maintain eligible properties that are eligible (e.g., those
properties that were purchased using Conservation Funds).
D. Strategic Partnerships
In addition to financial resources, strategic partnerships
can and should be leveraged to the maximum extent
possible to accomplish the priorities and recommendations
contained in this CPROS. Fortunately, WCPR has
established healthy working relationships with multiple
partner agencies, community service organizations, and
recreational groups. These groups can play a big part in
improving recreational service delivery to our community
by:
Assisting in community outreach efforts, to reach those
communities that face significant barriers to WCPR
facilities.
Provide volunteer assistance in maintaining, improving and
expanding recreational facilities.
Generate community support for WCPR improvement
initiatives
Partner in expanding recreational programming and
educational opportunities in the community.
This Comprehensive Parks, Recreation and Open Space
Plan was adopted by the Whatcom County Council on
January 23, 2024 by Resolution 2024-xxx. Copies of the
resolution are available at the Council Office's website:
https://whatcom.legistar.com/Legislation.aspx
Or by contacting Whatcom County Parks & Recreation at
Whatcom County Parks & Recreation
3373 Mt Baker Hwy
Bellingham, WA 98226
Phone: 360.778.5850
Email: parks@co.whatcom.wa.us
This gage left intentiona& blank as a place holder for adopted Whatcom Countv Resolution
Barth, David L. Parks and Recreation System Planning: A new approach for creating sustainable, resilient communities.
Island Press, 2020.
Calloway, Erik, Et al. Long -Range Planning for Health, Equity & Prosperity —A Primer for Local Governments. Changel-ab
Solutions, 2019.
Earth Economics. (2020). Economic Analysis of Outdoor Recreation in Washington State —2020 Update. Retrieved
September 5, 2023 from:
https://www.eartheconomics.org/all-publications/2020/outdoor-recreation
Earth Economics (2015). Economic Contribution of Outdoor Recreation to Whatcom County, WA. Retrieved September 5,
2023 from:
https://staticl.sguarespace.com/static/56ldcdc6e4b039470e9afc00/t/5e87557413dcc5026662262c/1585927547578/
EconomicContributionOfOutdoorRecreationToWhatcomCounty Earth Economics 2015.pdf
Hargrove, C. (2018). Bellingham and Whatcom County, Washington — Cultural Heritage Tourism Strategic Plan: 2018-
2022. HTC Partners. Retrieved August 16,2023, from: https://cob.org/wp-content/uploads/chtplan.pdf
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). What is an Estuary? Retrieved August 14, 2023 from:
https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/education/tutorial_estuaries/est01_whatis.html#:"':text=The%20mixture%20of%20
seawater%20a nd,%2C%20weath e r%2C%20or%20oth er%20factors.
Washington State Office of Finance Management. 2023. April 1 Official Population Estimates. Retrieved September 5,
2023, from:
https://ofm.wa.gov/washington-data-research/population-demographics/population-estimates/april-l-official-
population-estimates
Washington State Office of Financial Management, Forecasting Division (2023). Small Area Demographic Estimates:
Census Tracts [Data File]. Retrieved from: https://ofm.wa.gov/washington-data-research/population-demographics/
population-estimates/estimates-april-l-population-age-sex-race-and-hispanic-origin
Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office. Washington State Comprehensive Recreation and Conservation
Plan (2023). Retrieved September 5. 2023 from: https://wa-rco-score-2023-wa-rco.hub.arcgis.com/
Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office. Planning and Policy Guidelines, July 2023. Retrieved September 5.
2023 from:
https://rco.wa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Manual2.pdf
Wickham, James January 2018. EnviroAtlas: Percent of Stream and Shoreline with 15% or More Impervious Cover within
30 Meters. Retrieved September 6, 2023 from:
https://enviroatlas.epa.gov/enviroatlas/DataFactSheets/pdf/ESN/Perestreamwl5percentimperviousin30meters.pdf
Appendix A: Park Maps
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Pt�i9SP 5lmiprr
Ptdypro u nd
Reztmom
�1
ScwR��G'th�rlrtlk
�•^ ••,
Trait
Rark aouad lfy
Legend
Limited ParkJ ig
Beach Access.
Boundary
'a
Legend
---- Trail mum Boardv;alk
fl) Viewpoint Information Kiosk
Parking Interpretive Sign
Restroom Reserve Boundary
Point Whitehorn
Marine Reserve
...............
..............
RX
11 ...........
.....................
Semiahmoo Park
Legend
63 Eagle Habitat
Picnic Area
0 Historic Building
Restroom
M Historic Structure
Scenic overlook
[2 Parking Lot
la Witter Spigot
—Hand Carry
Coast Millennium
Boat Access
Trail
Dumpster/Recycling Picnic SKelter- FM Picnic Area Restroom to Stable Swimming Beach Water Spigot
7t .7_ts 17 r, 77,<l, ,.,,_n, ,, f,,.
Stimpson Family
Nature Reserve
T
{
�L
I�
{�
y
Legend
Parking
5«jric Overlook i
1 ark Uti nda ty
Appendix B:
Wha tcom County Parks & Recreation
On-line Survey & Results
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q1 Which area of the county do you live in?
Answered: 1,011. Skipped: I
go/C
5%(49
4%(39)
3%(27)
3%(27)
6%(63
7%("/3)
56%(570)
Bellingham
Birch Bay
0 Blaine
Ferndale
Foothills
Lummi Island
Lynden
Nooksack
Other
Point Robe...
_= South Fork
SUrnas
ANSWER CHOICES
RESPONSES
Bellingham
56%
570
Birch Bay
7%
73
Blaine
2%
24
Ferndale
6%
63
Foothills
3%
27
Lummi Island
3%
27
Lynden
4%
39
Nooksack
2%
17
Other _
5%
49
Point Roberts
8%
78
South Fork Valley
4%
37
Sumas
1%
7
TOTAL
1,011
ANSWER CHOICES
0-1 years
2-5 years
6-10 years
10+ years
TOTAL
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q2 How long have you lived in Whatcom County?
Answered: 1,01.0 Skipped '
56)
12%(122)
70%(703)
0-1 years 2-5 years _._ 6-10 years 10+ years
RESPONSES
3%
15%
12%
70%
29
156
122
703
1.010
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q3 Do you rent or own your home?
Any>;veiai I JAYS Skipped: 7
B4%(848)
Rent Own
ANSWER CHOICES
Rent
Own
TOTAL
%(157)
RESPONSES
16%
84%
157
848
1,005
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q4 What age group are you in?
Ans\niered: 1,005 Skipped: 7
30%(298)
2M%(2t;u)
18-24 25-34 35-49
65+
107)
29%(294)
50-64
ANSWER CHOICES
RESPONSES
18-24
3%
25-34
11%
35-49
29%
50-64
28%
65+
30%
TOTAL
26
107
294
280
298
1.005
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q5 Have any household members used recreational programs, parks, or
trails provided by Whatcom County in the last year?
Answered: 1'000 Skipped: 12
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
Yes No
ANSWER CHOICES
Yes
No
TOTAL
RESPONSES
95%
5%
948
52
1,000
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q6 Conservation and Preservation of Natural Resources - Please rate your
satisfaction with the following:
Ans"vered: 7d,t 5kIpped: 2 / t
Preservation
of undevelop...
Preservation
of wetlands
Preservation
of agricultu...
Open space and
scenic area...
00/0 100/0 20% 30% 40% 500/0 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
11-Lowest 2-Low «3 Moderate 4-High
5-Highest
1-LOWEST
Preservation of undeveloped natural areas and forests 3%
23
Preservation of wetlands 4%
30
Preservation of agricultural land 6%
39
Open space and scenic area preservation 4%
28
2-LOW
3-MODERATE
4-HIGH
5-HIGHEST
TOTAL
8%
31%
39%
19%
58
232
286
140
739
8%
33%
39%
17%
57
238
283
121
729
12%
39%
30%
14%
85
273
213
99
709
6%
37%
35%
18%
47
270
255
133
733
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q7 Shoreline and Waterfront - Please rate your satisfaction with the
following:
Arisvvew : 728 Skipped: 28,1
Freshwater
access to...
Shore fishing
opportunities
Boat Launching
facilities
Saltwater
beach access...
Shell fishi
opportuniti
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
>> 1-Lowest 2-Low e 3-Moderate 4-High
5-Highest
1-LOWEST
2-LOW
3-MODERATE
4-HIGH
5-HIGHEST
TOTAL
Freshwater access to lakes, rivers, and streams
5%
11%
35%
33%
16%
37
82
251
233
113
716
Shore fishing opportunities
9%
21%
37%
23%
9%
61
138
247
155
60
661
Boat launching facilities
13%
16%
40%
21%
10%
85
111
270
143
64
673
Saltwater beach access and beach combing
7%
14%
35%
29%
16%
50
98
245
202
113
708
Shell fishing opportunities
9%
21%
42%
20%
8%
57
138
274
134
54
657
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q8 Trails:
Ans weied: 142 Skippod: 2,10
Hiking and
walking trails
Mountain bike
trails
Horseback
traits
Multiuse
trails...
Off road
motorized...
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
1-Lowest IS 2-Low 3-Moderate 4-High
5-Highest
1-LOWEST
2-LOW
3-MODERATE
4-HIGH
5-HIGHEST
TOTAL
Hiking and walking trails
3%
4%
22%
40%
30%
19
30
166
299
225
739
Mountain bike trails
7%
8%
33%
33%
19%
47
55
212
214
122
650
Horseback trails
11%
15%
41%
20%
13%
66
88
248
122
79
603
Multiuse trails (bicycle, walking)
4%
8%
34%
35%
19%
31
55
242
245
134
707
Off road motorized opportunities
28%
14%
32%
12%
14%
168
84
191
74
86
603
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q9 Picnicking, Camping, and Pet Exercise Areas:
Answered: 719 Skipped: 293
Picnic areas
Campsites and
camping...
Pet exercise
and off -teas...
0% 10%
20% 30% 40%
50% 60%
70% 80%
90%
100%
1-Lowest
2-Low
3-Moderate
4-1-ligh
5-Highest
1-LOWEST
2-LOW 3-MODERATE
4-HIGH
5-HIGHEST
TOTAL
Picnic areas
3%
9%
39%
34%
15%
21
66
274
236
105
702
Campsites and camping opportunities
6%
17%
38%
27%
12%
39
116
261
184
85
685
Pet exercise and off -leash areas
11%
17%
35%
24%
13%
77
113
236
164
85
675
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q10 Interpretive Programs:
AnsUvered:695 Skipped:313
Nature,
wildlife, an...
Gardens and
landscape...
Historical,
cultural and...
Historical
Homes,
museu...
Farm and
agricultural...
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
1-Lowest 2-Low " 3-Moderate 4-High
5-Highest
1-
2-
3-
4-
5-
TOTAL
LOWEST
LOW
MODERATE
HIGH
HIGHEST
Nature, wildlife, and environmental exhibits, centers, walks,
7%
18%
42%
22%
10%
programs, and events
48
123
280
148
66
665
Gardens and landscape exhibits, programs, and events
8%
21%
40%
21%
10%
51
141
263
138
68
661
Historical, cultural and heritage exhibits, walks, programs, and
8%
20%
40%
22%
10%
events
54
134
269
150
65
672
Historical Homes, museums, and farms
9%
18%
36%
26%
11%
57
122
242
171
75
667
Farm and agricultural exhibits, programs, and events
10%
24%
40%
17%
9%
63
158
261
110
58
650
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q11 Athletic Courts and Fields:
Ansvvered:682 Skil,ped:330
Playgrounds
Athletic and
play fields
Athletic
events and...
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
1-Lowest 2-Low 3 Moderate 4 High
5-Highest
1-LOWEST
2-LOW
3-MODERATE
4-HIGH
5-HIGHEST
TOTAL
Playgrounds
5%
11%
35%
33%
15%
34
74
235
221
101
665
Athletic and play fields
7%
13%
36%
31%
14%
44
85
240
204
92
665
Athletic events and tournaments
11%
17%
38%
21%
12%
73
110
244
134
75
636
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q12 Firearms:
Ansvvemd: 592 Skipped: dM
Shooting
ranges and...
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
r 1-Lowest 2 Low 3 Moderate 4-High
5-Highest
1-LOWEST 2-LOW 3-MODERATE 4-HIGH 5-HIGHEST TOTAL WEIGHTED AVERAGE
Shooting ranges and areas 26% 16% 29% 13% 17%
152 93 174 75 98 592 2.79
Directional
and...
Restrooms
Parking areas
Bicycle
accommodation
Accommodatio
for people
w...
Food and
vending...
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q13 Supporting Services and Facilities:
Aiisvljeted: /25 Skipped:28/
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
1-Lowest 2-Low
5-Highest
1-LOWEST
Directional and informational signage 4%
31
Restrooms 6%
43
Parking areas 5%
33
Bicycle accommodations 6%
42
Accommodations for people with disabilities 5%
31
Food and vending concessions 21%
134
3-Moderate 4-High
2-LOW
3-MODERATE
4-HIGH
5-HIGHEST
TOTAL
11%
44%
33%
9%
74
306
229
62
702
17%
38%
29%
10%
124
269
206
75
717
14%
38%
35%
9%
101
265
244
62
705
13%
40%
31%
10%
84
260
204
67
657
14%
39%
27%
14%
89
247
171
89
627
30%
32%
11%
7%
192
204
71
42
643
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q14 Rental Facilities:
Amwv'ered: 665 Skipped: 3157
Rental of
canoes, kaya...
Rental of
cabins and...
Rental of
picnic shelters
Rentat of
historic horn...
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
1-1 owest IN2-Low = 3-Moderate 4-1-ligh
5-1-lighest
1-
2-
3-
4-
5-
TOTAL
LOWEST
LOW
MODERATE
HIGH
HIGHEST
Rental of canoes, kayaks, paddle boats, and paddle boards
11%
26%
37%
18%
8%
72
164
239
115
50
640
Rental of cabins and overnight lodges
13%
26%
38%
16%
7%
82
163
240
101
43
629
Rental of picnic shelters
8%
16%
44%
23%
8%
52
104
280
142
53
631
Rental of historic homes, activity centers and similar facilities for
12%
21%
43%
16%
8%
weddings, retreats, meetings, and events
71
128
258
99
49
605
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q15 Activities and Events:
Ans,nierecl: 701 Skipped:31t
Music and art
exhibits,...
Outdoor skill
and safety...
Volunteer
opportunitie...
Geocaching/orie
nteering
Outdoor
swimming...
Running and
walking events
Bicycle and
mountain bik...
Ultimate
Frisbee and...
Winter
activities...
Activities for
older adults
Firearms,
shooting and...
Gardening and
Horticultura...
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
1-Lowest 2-Low 3-Moderate 4-High
FM 5-Highest
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
1-
2-
3-
4-
LOWEST
LOW
MODERATE
HIGH
Music and art exhibits, concerts, and events
9%
24%
36%
23%
60
154
234
147
Outdoor skill and safety instructions (backcountry camping, first-
11%
29%
39%
14%
aid, bicycling, and horseback riding)
68
180
243
89
Volunteer opportunities in the parks
7%
17%
44%
23%
44
107
272
139
Geocaching/orienteering
12%
24%
40%
16%
71
138
230
94
Outdoor swimming opportunities
13%
25%
32%
21%
81
161
206
133
Running and walking events
7%
15%
36%
28%
45
92
228
178
Bicycle and mountain bike rides and events
10%
19%
36%
22%
64
116
219
134
Ultimate Frisbee and disc golf opportunities
16%
23%
36%
15%
95
135
213
92
Winter activities snowshoeing, cross-country skiing,
13%
17%
37%
22%
snowmobiling
82
107
230
134
Activities for older adults
11%
23%
39%
19%
68
141
238
118
Firearms, shooting and hunter's safety classes
23%
18%
33%
12%
132
102
184
70
Gardening and Horticultural classes
10%
23%
43%
16%
58
140
260
95
5-
TOTAL
HIGHEST
9%
57
652
7%
42
622
9%
55
617
7%
40
573
10%
67
648
14%
87
630
13%
79
612
10%
62
597
11%
70
623
9%
53
618
13%
76
564
8%
50
603
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q16 If providing future recreation programs requires more money than can
be budgeted from Whatcom County resources, how would you rate the
following methods of paying for them on a scale of 1 to 5, where 1 is least
desirable and 5 is most desirable?
Ansvvered:685 Skipped:32/
Reducethe
number of...
Reducethe
content,...
Increase user
fees for...
Increase user
fees for...
Increase
county taxes...
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
1-1--owest 2-Low
5-Highest
Reduce the number of programs to control costs
Reduce the content, variety, and duration of programs to
control costs
Increase user fees for non-residents to finance program
services
Increase user fees for everyone to finance program services
Increase county taxes to finance needed program services
v 3-Moderate 4-High
1-
2-
3-
4-
S-
LOWEST
LOW
MODERATE
HIGH
HIGHEST
26%
24%
30%
11%
8%
177
163
201
76
51
23%
27%
31%
12%
6%
155
180
209
78
42
7%
11%
23%
33%
25%
50
72
158
227
171
16%
23%
33%
18%
9%
111
158
224
122
59
27%
16%
26%
16%
16%
181
109
173
105
107
TOTAL
668
664
678
674
675
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q17 How would you rate the existing inventory of all park, recreation, and
open space facilities provided in Whatcom County by the county, cities,
school districts, port, state, and other park providers on a scale of 1 to 5
where 1 is the poor and 5 excellent?
Answered: G66 3kipp ;d: 346
Quantity - the
number, size...
Quality - of
maintenance...
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
1-Poor 2-Fair
5-Excettent
Quantity - the number, size and location of existing park and trail
sites to serve the existing population
Quality - of maintenance conditions and furnishings including
parking, restrooms, trails, campsites, shelters, cabins, and other
facilities in existing parks
3-Average 4-Good
1-
2-
3-
4-
5- TOTAL
POOR
FAIR
AVERAGE
GOOD
EXCELLENT
5%
11%
25%
40%
19%
31
76
167
264
126 664
8%
12%
27%
40%
13%
54
79
182
264
84 663
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Water
resources an...
Wildlife
habitat,...
Forestland
conservation...
Farmland
conservation...
Open space and
scenic area...
Historical and
cultural...
0%
Q18 Conservation Needs
Ansojered:60 Skipped:104
10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
-Lowest Moderate 4-Hig1--ow h
5-Highest
1-LOWEST
2-LOW
3-MODERATE
4-HIGH
5-HIGHEST
TOTAL
Water resources and watershed protection areas
7%
11%
25%
29%
28%
43
65
147
176
168
599
Wildlife habitat, conservation, and natural areas
5%
7%
25%
33%
30%
31
40
152
202
179
604
Forestland conservation areas
5%
7%
26%
35%
27%
29
43
155
206
164
597
Farmland conservation areas
7%
14%
35%
27%
17%
42
82
205
163
101
593
Open space and scenic area preservation
4%
7%
29%
35%
25%
27
41
173
210
153
604
Historical and cultural buildings and sites
6%
18%
40%
24%
11%
39
109
242
145
66
601
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q19 Recreational Facility Needs:
Ansvvereck 602 Skipped: 41.0
Soccer,
Lacrosse....
Bocce and
pickleball...
Golf courses
and driving...
Community
classrooms a...
Youth and teen
activity...
Senior
activity...
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
1-Lowest 2-Low 3-Moderate 4 High
5-Highest
1-LOWEST
2-LOW
3-MODERATE
4-HIGH
5-HIGHEST
TOTAL
Soccer, lacrosse, baseball, softball, and athletic fields
15%
18%
39%
21%
8%
86
105
229
121
48
58S
Bocce and pickleball courts
21%
29%
31%
13%
6%
126
168
183
77
33
587
Golf courses and driving ranges
40%
27%
22%
7%
4%
235
158
130
43
25
591
Community classrooms and meeting facilities
10%
24%
42%
19%
6%
60
142
246
110
33
591
Youth and teen activity centers
6%
13%
32%
31%
17%
35
79
191
185
98
586
Senior activity centers
8%
11%
35%
32%
15%
46
66
205
190
86
593
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q20 Trail Needs:
Answered:61.4 S<ippecL: 398'
Accessible
trails and...
Cross-country
walking and...
Cross-country
horse trails
Cross-country
mountain bilk...'
Snowshoeand
cross -county...
Multipurpose
(hike/bike/h...
On -road
bicycle routes
Dog parks,
exercise are...
Off -road ATV,
motorcycle,...
Remote
backcou ntry...
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
1 Lowest in 2-Low 3-Moderate 4-High
5-Highest
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
1-
2-
3-
4-
5-
LOWEST
LOW
MODERATE
HIGH
HIGHEST
Accessible trails and facilities within parks for people with
4%
11%
36%
33%
16%
disabilities
27
66
217
198
96
Cross-country walking and hiking trails
5%
8%
27%
35%
26%
30
50
161
210
155
Cross-country horse trails
22%
31%
31%
10%
5%
129
177
180
59
31
Cross-country mountain bike trails
17%
22%
36%
15%
9%
102
130
213
91
52
Snowshoe and cross-country skiing trails
14%
20%
35%
22%
9%
81
119
208
128
53
Multipurpose (hike/bike/horse) trails
12%
14%
38%
24%
12%
70
85
222
140
70
On -road bicycle routes
18%
13%
26%
25%
18%
103
78
153
147
103
Dog parks, exercise areas, and trails
11%
20%
31%
24%
13%
67
118
181
140
78
Off -road ATV, motorcycle, snowmobile trails, and ORV parks
48%
22%
17%
8%
6%
276
129
96
45
34
Remote backcountry campsites
16%
22%
32%
18%
12%
96
126
189
103
72
TOTAL
604
606
576
588
589
587
584
584
580
586
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q21 Regional Park Needs:
Answered: 672 Skipped:400
1-Lowest 2-Low „'s 3-Moderate 4-High
5-Highest
1-LOWEST
2-LOW
3-MODERATE
4-HIGH
5-HIGHEST
TOTAL
Shore fishing areas from docks
12%
17%
39%
21%
11%
68
99
223
118
66
574
Waterfront access and beach use sites
4%
7%
23%
38%
29%
22
39
140
226
172
599
Cartop boat (kayak/canoe) launch sites
7%
12%
33%
31%
17%
38
72
194
183
97
584
Powerboat launching and moorage facilities
22%
23%
32%
13%
10%
126
133
184
77
60
580
Picnic tables, play areas, and shelters
5%
10%
36%
33%
16%
27
57
217
199
96
596
Tent, yurt, RV campsites, group camps, and cabins
8%
15%
37%
26%
14%
46
91
218
155
82
592
Concessions for food and beverage, bait sales, etc.
25%
27%
29%
13%
6%
145
157
172
78
36
588
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q22 Supporting Facility Needs:
Answered:61.0 Skipped:402
Restrooms
Access and
parking areas
Interpretive
and directio...
0% 10%
20% 30%
40% 50% 60%
70% 80%
90%
100%
1-Lowestt
2 Low
3-Moderate
4-High
5-Highest
1-LOWEST
2-LOW 3-MODERATE 4-HIGH
5-HIGHEST
TOTAL
Restrooms
1%
5%
21%
37%
36%
8
29
127
220
215
599
Access and parking areas
3%
6%
30%
40%
21%
15
37
181
240
125
598
Interpretive and directional signage
7%
15%
41%
26%
12%
40
92
244
154
69
599
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q23 Conservation Proposals:
Answered:569 Skil_ped:443
Protect water
resource and...
Protect
wildlife...
Protect mature
and old grow...
Protect
historical a...
Protect scenic
areas,...
Protect 8% 1610/0,
historic far...
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
1-Lowest 2-Low 3-Moderate 4-1-ligh
54-lighest
1-
2-
3-
4-
5-
TOTAL
LOWEST
LOW
MODERATE
HIGH
HIGHEST
Protect water resource and watershed areas of the county
6%
6%
20%
27%
41%
34
35
113
152
230
564
Protect wildlife habitat areas of the county in and around fresh
5%
4%
21%
32%
39%
and saltwater areas, wetlands, and woodland areas
27
24
117
179
219
566
Protect mature and old growth forested areas of the county from
4%
5%
15%
24%
52%
logging in and around urbanizing areas and in backcountry sites
22
27
85
136
295
565
Protect historical and productive farmlands of the county from
5%
9%
27%
29%
29%
subdivision and development
28
52
153
164
166
563
Protect scenic areas, viewpoints, and vistas of the county along
2%
5%
22%
32%
39%
fresh and saltwater shorelines, farmlands, and wooded hilltops
12
29
122
182
221
566
and ridgelines
Protect historic farms, sawmills, railroads, mines, and other
8%
16%
30%
24%
21%
heritage sites from demolition and development
46
93
172
137
116
564
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Acquire and
develop...
Acquire and
develop...
Develop
additional b...
Develop
additional b...
Develop
additional...
Develop
additional...
Develop
additional t...
0%
Q24 Regional Park Proposals:
AnsvveredL 570 akilipcd. 442
10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
1-Lowest 2-Low
3-Moderate
4-lligh
5-Highest
1-
2-
3-
4
5-
TOTAL
LOWEST
LOW
MODERATE
HIGH
HIGHEST
Acquire and develop additional saltwater access sites for fishing,
6%
13%
22%
29%
31%
beachcombing, and walking
34
70
125
160
171
560
Acquire and develop additional freshwater access sites for
7%
15%
28%
28%
22%
fishing, swimming, and boating
37
85
156
157
122
557
Develop additional boat launching facilities at saltwater sites
19%
25%
29%
14%
14%
105
136
158
79
75
553
Develop additional boat launching facilities at freshwater sites
21%
28%
31%
11%
9%
115
152
172
62
48
549
Develop additional non -motorized cartop (kayak / canoe)
10%
16%
31%
25%
19%
launching facilities at salt and freshwater sites
55
86
171
139
103
554
Develop additional picnic shelters and group picnic facilities at
11%
19%
39%
22%
9%
major regional park sites
59
106
218
123
50
556
Develop additional tent and RV campsites, yurts, cabins, and
13%
22%
32%
22%
11%
group camp sites at major regional park sites
74
121
175
120
63
553
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q25 Trail System Proposals:
An>vveied: 565 `;kippe'd: ddl/
Develop cartop
boat put -in,...
Develop
cross-countr...
Develop
cross-countr...
Develop
cross-countr...
Develop 15r/o MI-1-1
off-road... �..,, .., _
..
Develop 22% 2.5%
31% 1S%
off -road...
.z,.
Develop
cross -county...
Support the
continued...
0% 10% 20% 30% 40%
50% 60%
70% 80%
90%
100%
1-Lowest 2 Low
3-Moderate
4- High
5-Highest
1-
2- 3-
4-
5-
TOTAL
LOWEST
LOW MODERATE
HIGH
HIGHEST
Develop cartop boat put -in, take-out, and overnight campsites
10%
21%
32%
23%
14%
along navigable salt and freshwater paddling routes
54
114
173
127
79
547
Develop cross-country network of saltwater beach and shoreline
7%
11%
28%
32%
22%
walking areas and trails
37
60
156
179
121
553
Develop cross-country network of on and off -road day and
7%
14%
29%
28%
22%
backpacking hiking trails
40
75
160
157
121
553
Develop cross-country network of horse stables, riding areas,
29%
31%
25%
8%
7%
and trails
159
166
135
44
36
540
Develop off -road cross-country network of hike, bike, and horse
15%
180/0
32%
20%
16%
trails
80
98
174
108
85
545
Develop off -road cross-country network of snowshoe, skiing and
22%
25%
31%
15%
7%
snowmobile trails
121
134
166
83
40
544
Develop cross-country system of on -road bicycle routes using
18%
16%
26%
21%
19%
road shoulders and designated bike lanes
97
87
140
118
107
549
Support the continued private party operation of ATV/Motorcycle
44%
21%
180/0
10%
7%
riding areas
238
112
100
57
39
546
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q26 How would you rate joint ventures projects for park facility
development and/or programming with the following organizations where 1
is the least desirable and 5 is the most desirable?
Ans\niered:531. `Skipped:48:1.
With other
public agent...
With nonprofit
organizations
With
for -profit...
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
1 2 ?:3 M 4
5
1
With other public agencies (cities, school districts, the port) 3%
17
With nonprofit organizations 5%
24
With for -profit organizations 26%
134
2
3
4
5
TOTAL
3%
21%
27%
45%
18
109
145
239
528
5%
20%
33%
37%
26
108
173
198
529
17%
32%
13%
12%
89
167
68
62
520
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q27 How would you rate the following recreation service area method
where 1 is the least desirable and 5 the most desirable?
Answered: 515 Slopped: dW
Organizing
recreation...
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
1 2 3
5
Organizing recreation service areas to finance specific facilities, programs, and land
acquisitions such as the preservation of scenic areas
4
1 2 3
11% 13% 34%
58 66 174
4 5
25% 17%
128 89
TOTAL
515
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q28 If a levy were to be put on the ballot to finance local park facilities and
programs, and land acquisitions within your local area, how much, if
anything, would your household be willing to pay per year for this source of
fundingAnnual amount: $
Answered: 410
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q29 How would you rate each of the following optional dedicated fees and
taxes, where 1 is the least desirable and 5 the most desirable?
Ansvvered:526 Skipped:486
Real Estate
Excise Tax...
Local Option
Vehicle Lice...
Local Option
Fuel Tax - a...
Local Option
Sales Tax - ...
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
1 2 3 4
5
1 2 3 4 5 TOTAL
Real Estate Excise Tax (REET 3) — an additional 0.25% assessment of the sales
30% 15% 16% 16% 24%
price of all real estate property (equal to $250 per $100,000 of sale price) paid by the
154 80 82 81 125 522
purchaser to be dedicated exclusively to the acquisition and development of park and
open space
Local Option Vehicle License Fee — an additional $15.00 per vehicle license registered
31% 15% 17% 16% 20%
in the county to be dedicated exclusively to the acquisition and development of trail
164 80 90 86 105 525
improvements
Local Option Fuel Tax — an additional $0.023 per gallon sales tax to be paid by
35% 14% 13% 15% 23%
residents and tourists to be dedicated exclusively to the acquisition and development
182 75 67 77 121 522
of trail improvements
Local Option Sales Tax — an additional 0.1% sales tax (equal to $0.10 for a $100
32% 16% 17% 17% 18%
purchase) to be paid by residents and tourists to be dedicated exclusively to the
167 85 88 88 95 523
acquisition and development of park and open space
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q30 If a bond were to be put on the ballot to finance regional recreational
and open space improvements, how much, if anything, would your
household be willing to pay per year for this source of funding? Amount per
year: $
Ansvvered: ,1<13 S;<i >: r r1::569
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q31 In your opinion, will existing park and recreation facilities within the
county, cities, and school districts be enough to provide for this population
increase?
ANSWER CHOICES
Yes
No
Don't Know
TOTAL
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
Yes No Don't Know
RESPONSES
14%
73%
13%
76
394
69
539
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q32 How would you rate the following methods for dealing with the impact
of new population growth on parks on a scale of 1 to 5, where 1 is least
desirable and 5 is most desirable?
Anr>wered:536 Skipped:476
Lower
standards fo...
Collect a
one-time gro...
Increase
county taxes...
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
1 2 3 4
5
1
Lower standards for the number of park facilities provided to future populations 57%
295
Collect a one-time growth impact fee from new housing development projects to pay 8%
for park improvements 45
Increase county taxes to acquire and develop park facilities to offset population .26%
growth impacts 139
2
3
4
5
TOTAL
19%
14%
7%
3%
99
74
35
18
521
5%
11%
21%
55%
25
59
113
291
533
18%
24%
17%
15%
94
129
89
78
529
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q33 If a park growth impact fee were to be collected from new housing
development projects, what percent of this cost would you recommend be
charged for every new single-family house to be developed in the county?
(The county does not currently charge growth impact fees.) Percentage of
cost:
Answered: q00 sI;ypeg : 612
RESPONSES OMITTED DUE TO ERROR IN SURVEY WEBPAGE.
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q34 Do you have any specific comments or recommendations to make
about the proposed park plan or this survey?Comments:
Answweied:290 Skipped: 02
SEE FOLLOWING PAGES FOR RESPONSES.
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Q34 Do you have any specific comments or recommendations to make
about the proposed park plan or this survey?Comments:
Aris�,vewd: 29(i Skippefl: 722
RESPONSES
I am very impressed with the hiking and walking trails in the areas and all of the beautiful
parks. Thank you!
The survey is very long and some questions seemed redundant. My feedback on the parks is
that the signs telling people to mask their children outside has made most families decide to
not use parks, because that is a personal medical decision that the Parks Department should
NOT be advising. Masking children under 5 is a serious health risk. Advising people to mask
children over age 2 puts children at risk for multiple reasons and I have been very disappointed
to see the Parks Department support such baseless and careless "requirements". There is
also the potential for lawsuits if a child is injured FROM wearing a mask because of your
signs. You might want to budget for upcoming claims against Whatcom County Parks and
Recreation.
I couldn't figure out how to enter amounts our household would be willing to pay. It's difficult to
quantify, partly because we are able to pay, whereas many others are not. I would like to see
payment options that tax higher income brackets rather than people who are struggling.
Everyone pays gas tax, excise tax on property, etc. How can we get more wealthy people to
pay more??
More off leash dog trails like the one at Hovander please! Would be great to have the pump
track in Ferndale cleaned up/upgrades. Would love a multi use park in Ferndale up on church
hill- so many houses and not many walkable parks.
Before any new parks or facilities are open, our existing ones need to be maintained. I can
refer specifically to Hovander park, where the animal area and fences are in disrepair. Silver
lake, where the floating foot bridge is degrading quickly, and Tennant lake interpretative center
has been closed for years. I do notice the improvements, and appreciate them., but to add
more work by adding more facilities, makes it more unlikely that these things will get fixed.
I did not answer parts of the survey where I have no experience (eg horseriding, soccer fields)
. I hope you will consider waivers for low-income home owners and also try to reduce the
impact of fees on low income renters.
Love the county parks. Crucial to keep restrooms clean.
Keep the parks safe for families and the elderly who pay taxes, keep the homeless out of the
parks. If needed a % of the park budget can be used to help house the homeless in shelters
and programs that promote health and recovery.
Much too confusing! Hard to figure out just what I think you're doing well. Much easier to say
what I think priorities should be. Thank you.
10 There needs to be changing tables in the men's bathrooms. I know this is a minor issue and
more handled by the maintenance team than planning but it is 2021 and men do change
diapers and if there are changing tables in the women's bathroom, there better be some in the
men's.
11 No
12 Once taxes are increased they just NEVER go away or decrease (percentage -wise) even if the
aggregate amount collected increases due to population growth or inflation.
13 1 believe that as fast as the growth and building is happening in this area, we need to
immediately accomplish plans to include saving the out of doors for our future generations.
14 Improve communication of programs to the public as well to Local Distric Organizations.
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16
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Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
Instead of taxing single family homes could a tax be levied on developers? For each proposed
development site? Commercial and residential? They should consider how their proposals
impact the community and lack of open space. We would be happy to pay more taxes for the
parks but can hardly afford our property taxes as is.
Fairly good survey. My problem with any tax applied in any format, is that regardless of intent
in it's imposition, the monies DO NOT end up applied for the projects that the tax was intended
for.
No
I notice much more focus on parks in more urban areas like Bellingham and the parks out in
the county feel much more neglected. It would be nice to see more parks and playground
development out in the county. As Whatcom county continues to grow, those numbers will also
be reflected in our rural neighborhoods. In particular I think the park at the Van Zandt
community center could use a big revamp. There's a huge community out in that area and no
where for children to play unless they are able to go to Bellingham for a nice park.
Government needs to live within its means. We should cut other parts of the government if we
want more parks.
Please make efforts towards creating a north -south pedestrian/bicycle corridor in the south fork
valley, from Deming to skagit county line. Thank you considering this
Picnic tables were removed from the deck on the service building at Silver Lake Park when it
was refurbished. Some additional seating (benches) should be added so a person can sit and
enjoy the view from the deck. The department needs to be pro active in advertising facilities to
the residents.
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22
Your consideration of services for youth and seniors is good to see.
4/30/2021 2:14 PM
23
Please not increase in taxes. We are being taxed out of our homes.
4/28/2021 5:48 AM
24
Save more forests, like Stimpson Reserve. More walking trails that exclude bikes and dogs.
4/27/2021 11:02 PM
25
Finish what is stared ex horse trail south fork park. Very dif3appoited in this park no place to
4/27/2021 8:30 PM
good
26
This survey is a bit wordy in some places, had to read the question twice, often. You guys
4/27/2021 5:35 PM
need to do a little more self promotion. There are many things mentioned that I have no clue
what the park actually has, or offers. For example, wetland conservation areas? Additionally, I
would like to see further development for local users in South fork Park. Picnic tables,
benches along the trail, further hiking trail development along the river woukd be nice. Few
people use this park because little is offered. We therefore have lots of drug activity and two
deaths in the parks short existence. Please make this a place locals will use, and not just a
dumping ground for societal trash.
27
The parks department cannot adequately take care of what they already have; active
4/27/2021 5:25 AM
monitoring for security and crime. Why would I encourage the parks dept to grow or increase
services when the basic element of locking up parks or making regular rounds to deter crime
isn't being done?
28
The need for more trail development is evident in most multi use areas. Bikers, hikers, and
4/26/2021 9:26 PM
horseback riders are starting to pile up in most areas and the lack of variety and quantity of
trails is to blame. It will just continue to get worse
29
Focus on connectivity with other public or conserved land. Fragments habitat between
4/26/2021 9:04 PM
development will only decrease wildlife and biodiversity over time. Increase taxes proportional
to the amount of land developed, with large housing developments paying the highest taxes for
maintaining and acquiring land for conservation and recreation.
30
Over 1/2 of the land in Whatcom County is undeveloped wilderness, recreation area or national
4/26/2021 9:01 PM
forest (fallow open space). That provides enough hiking and horseback riding and mtn biking
opportunities. Make more campgrounds and quit promoting bike use of paved roads.
31
Preserving 10-20 acre farm parcels with a building right
4/26/2021 8:44 PM
32
Please look into motorized off road opportunities. There are NONE in this county
4/26/2021 7:45 PM
33
Survey the Foothills and you'll see how visitor pressure has increased here during Covid. We
4/26/2021 7:08 PM
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need logging road access for recreation, parking, alternatives to the Discover Pass for the
poor.
34 The citizens of the South Fork Valley are tasked with the maintenance and operation costs of
4/26/20216:13 PM
the Van Zandt Community Hall and Josh Vander Yacht Memorial Park. These venues are
essential to the Valley, but neither the County nor the Parks Dept. is willing to step up and help
out. The cost to the County/Parks would be minimal, and the return in terms of community -
building would be immense. The South Fork Valley needs your help.
35 One of the things I love most about living here is the accessibility to parks, beaches, and
4/26/20219:27 AM
trails. It's also becoming extremely difficult to afford to live here. I'm afraid raising taxes for
existing residents will continue to make it more difficult to afford to live here.
36 The portions left blank resulted from my pitiful lack of knowledge about existing services and
4/24/2021 5:22 PM
resources.
37 The questions didn't allow me to express how grateful I am for the beautiful parks, trails, and
4/24/2021 2:18 PM
natural areas the county provides. I love our parks and natural areas and hope the county can
preserve more of our natural treasures from development. Thanks to the staff and employees
who take such good care of our parks and natural areas!
38 Please do not increase taxes. Use growth fees and allocate existing revenues more effectively
4/22/2021 1:09 PM
39 1 would support a tax on new Property Owners homeowners it must also include those who
4/22/2021 7:25 AM
purchase Condominiums
40 1 would like to see the Birch Bay Beach Park property prioritized for development now that the
4/21/2021 11:11 AM
Pedestrian facility is finished. There will be a dramatic need for restrooms and parking in the
days ahead as the shoreline "Promenade" becomes a popular destination in Whatcom County!
41 Whatcom county spends millions on parks and property acquisition. Our population is already
4/20/2021 8:45 AM
totally tapped out financially so to even suggest taxes, levies or bonds is a joke. Our Star Park
is 100% community paid for in Ferndale. Start doing fundraising and have donor and volunteer
events instead of pushing us further into the poor house for the sake of recreation. We have
everything we could need for it and more except county water parks.
42 1 don't want to pay anymore taxes, I can barely afford to live in the town I grew up in. Work on
4/20/2021 8:17 AM
getting the homeless out of our parks and open space areas. We pay enough in homeless and
affordable housing this should not be a probation Bellingham/whatcom county!!
43 Hopefully park management will continue to support and improve all of the parks they have
4/20/20213:41 AM
been entrusted to care for. Something needs to be done about Lake Samish Park parking
situation. I would love to visit this park but I will not due to the terrible parking. Bulldozing the
old rangers cabin could provide a lot more parking spaces. Also want to mention how much my
family love visiting Hovander Park. Have been taking them there forever and we love to visit
the animals, wish there were more and of course the gardens are fantastic.
44 A few suggestions: 1) The county needs more disc golf opportunities on City of Bellingham
4/15/20214:06 PM
and Whatcom County property! 2) Funds for land acquisition for conservation and recreation
should be borne predominantly by developers. The new population growth should pay for its
impact. Thanks!
45 keep military training out of WA parks
4/15/2021 12:37 PM
46 Survey to long and no one wants more taxs
4/13/2021 8:30 PM
47 KEEP MILITARY TRAINING OPERATIONS OUT OF WASHINGTON PARKS!
4/13/2021 9:29 AM
48 Hard for me to answer some questions. A "don't know" option might have been nice on some
4/13/2021 8:28 AM
questions.
49 We are seniors who moved here recently. We are very impressed with the hiking trail system
4/12/20219:51 AM
and use it frequently. But very disappointed in the road biking opportunities. We were avid road
bikers and came from an area of the midwest that was honeycombed with safe, dedicated road
bike trails and found virtually none here. We are not interested in riding on the side of a road.
50 BRING THE ANIMALS BACK TO HOVANDER! It is a farm park and it needs the farm animals
4/12/2021 8:15 AM
51 The trails at Lake Samish Park are deteriorating and need some attention. I heard that
4/11/2021 12:00 PM
mountain bikes aren't allowed on those trails, and they are there are the time. How about some
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signs saying so? They are chewing up the trail that is too fragile, steep, and narrow for
mountain bikes. Thx.
52
If they would stop building high rise housing, it would slow the growth rate. Perhaps we are as
4/11/2021 11:08 AM
big as we need to be. If there isn't housing find somewhere else to live. It's not that hard.
53
Yes, this survey is terrible.
4/11/2021 12:06 AM
54
1 just want to look at the possibility of the county buying more land by point whitehorn- large
4/10/2021 3:00 PM
tracts are just getting absorbed for real estate with very a short term, narrow minded
perspective toward maintaining a balance between a health ecosystem and housing.
55
1 don't know who the target is for this survey but I didn't feel the survey was well written. It
4/10/2021 11:58 AM
seems to assume that the person filling out the survey participates in all types of recreation
(water sports, Hiking, Biking, ATV, etc) and has an appreciation of all of them. It also assumes
the person understands the amount of the particular taxes and the financials concerning the
purchase of the land and then for the improvements and maintenance of this land. Although I
am a enthusiastic proponent of the Parks and Recreation and wish to support it, I don't have
the depth of information or knowledge to answer many of these questions.
56
The last question on impact fees was not well stated so I suspect many will not understand
4/10/2021 8:19 AM
what the percentage was related to. Should have been an option to reduce spending on roads
and transition that money toward bike/walking trails between neighborhoods and communities
57
Many of the questions in the beginning of the survey were difficult to answer because I don't
4/9/2021 10:43 PM
participate in all of the categories mentioned.
58
My comment is regarding your survey. There are many questions for which I have no
4/9/2021 5:36 PM
experience or opinion (for example, disc golf opportunities). Your data will be useless without
an option for people to select "Not applicable" or "No opinion".
59
We NEED waterfront access for horses, there are currently no places to take a horse in the
4/9/2021 3:57 PM
water to swim. I miss it. Yeah, I'm certain you haven't gotten this comment before.
60
Make lake terrell and Archery Range officially horse accessible. Allow for trailer parking.
4/9/2021 11:48 AM
61
Would be nice to have dual use parks for horses, as well as trails to the beaches for them.
4/9/2021 11:35 AM
Opening up the lake Terrell resource would be a inexpensive way to start. Working with intalco
to bet beach access via their wildlife area also.
62
Reduce the number of new homes, apartments, condos being built. Fewer people, less need
4/9/2021 11:33 AM
for new recreation areas.
63
We need more water access, fresh and salt water. As much fun as the horse and ATV trails
4/9/2021 10:03 AM
could be, they are not reaching the majority of residents. Both of those activities are expensive
and not accessible to most people. They should be considered, but at a much lower priority
than walking, hiking, and biking trails.
64
1 think it's very important to make sure that recreational activities for youth and families are
4/9/2021 9:25 AM
still accessible thru our population growth. I think we may need an additional pool, and I think
it's important that the burden of paying for facilities does not fall on our low income neighbors. I
would love to see a tax on homes above a certain valuation - whether that's at the time of sale
or yearly.
65
Thank you for planning for growth. It's happening now and the impact is being felt.
4/9/20219:16 AM
66
New multi family and multi usee buildings should pay more than current or new single family.
4/9/20218:48 AM
Those buildings have significantly more impact on the land and population
67
we need more salt water access and fresh water swim areas
4/9/2021 8:17 AM
68
Recreational amenities are a major draw for new residents so aiming their direction for revenue
4/9/20218:11 AM
seems fair.
69
What about working with current landowners that may own land that is suitable for parks or
4/9/2021 8:05 AM
recreation. You could always provide tax credits for those who choose to use there land for
public access. Sort of like the Open Space was supposed to be. Providing land owners tax
breaks or other assistance for putting in there own "parks and camping spots" and even trails
or water access that is open to others. Assisting them with the permitting process or other
processes necessary to make them "legal". I think more people would be willing to allow others
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to use their land, but the liabilities and regulations for such use are overwhelming. Think of all
the people who want to do something as simple as HIPCAMP or HARVEST HOST or a basic
VBRO / AIRB&B and all the hoops and regulations are very discouraging. Adjusting some of
the regulations would only encourage people to share their land. This would take alot of
pressure of local government to have to provide all our recreation opportunities. I would love to
talk with someone in this area as we are wanting to do HIPCAMP on our 110 acres. if there is
any one interested in assisting us, you can contact me at ratherbridin2@netzero.net I think
private owned parks and camp area is the new way to go. This helps both the land owner by
providing extra income and the government because it takes the burden and pressure off them.
70 More trails, no homeless camps
71 The parks have sufficient facilities and far too few staff for effective maintenance and
historical/ educational programming. I support low -impact trail programs with few off -leash
dogs, off -road bikes and ATVs. I would like to see the Roeder Home again offer community
programming and have been alarmed at the insurance requirements that have driven
community groups such as the Highland Games and Bluegrass Festival away from the parks.
Partnerships with Ag are desirable and historical programming should be strengthened. Look to
the Boulder County Colorado model (similar in geography without the shorelines and in
demographics including ag) for a picture of community engagement and success.
72 Finish the toxic waste site area next to Boulevard Park as soon as possible,
73 1 keep hoping we will see plans for a new pool facility for swim lessons. It is so hard to get our
kids into swim lessons now. Just think when there are even more people.
74 Please please please expand Disc Golf in Bellingham. With the population growth of
Bellingham and the sport of Disc Golf growing so fast we are in need for a new course.
Cornwall is over used and crowded to the point I don't enjoy playing disc golf.
75 For current facilities, maintain high quality. To maintain quality, a reservation system, such as
at Silver Lake may be needed for new facilities.
76 If the county made more backcountry sites, they could collect smaller fees but usage would
increase. Especially if you provided 4x4 opportunity as well. You could charge for a 4x4 permit
also
77 tax the rich!
78 Manage what we have now well, enhance what we have, do not expand programs or put new
taxes in place.
79 Clearly mountain biking is a major draw for our area, and continues to attract visitors and new
residents to Whatcom county. Continued development of multi -use trail infrastructure to
support a growing population is critical. Also, we need an 18-hole disc golf course in
Bellingham- somewhere other than Cornwall Park. I urge the county to look at options for
building a world -class disc golf course in the woods at Whatcom Falls Park, Lake Padden, in
the Chuckanuts, or other wooded county or city parkland near town. Additionally, the county
parks should consider a recreational easement or property acquisition to allow development of
the popular disc golf course in Glacier, WA. Thanks for making Whatcom county the best
place to live in Washington!
80 The parks need more outreach and educational programs to help even more people understand
the value of these special places
81 We need more disc golf in and around where people live. This means Bellingham. Cornwall (city
park, I know) is bursting at the seams. There has been such an incredible growth in disc golf
the past year, a great disc golf course would bring in big tourism and would be in constant daily
use year-round. Also, disc golf has the effect of cleaning up parks, bringing foot traffic to
corners of parks that previously hosted undesirable behaviors. (Look at Cornwall's trajectory,
for a long time it was a cruising hotspot, and hangout for gang members. Now it's one of the
most family friendly parks there is! No needles, no camping, very little sketchy behavior.).
County Parks would be showered with love and appreciation by the disc golf community! The
Whatcom Disc Golf Club is almost 500 strong and has a really energetic core of passionate
disc golfers willing to chip in and help make improvements at the drop of a hat!
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82 In general I have a great time using and accessing the wide variety of activities available in our 4/5/20214:05 PM
county and very much appreciate the work you do. Having started disc golfing about a year
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ago, I would love to see additional options for the sport. I'm aware that I am part of a huge
boom in the sport, and although places like Cornwall Park and the Mossy Rock course are
great spots, on busy days they get quite crowded and can be hard to play. The course in
Blaine is also quite fun, but could use some more consistent management in terms of upkeep
as it is way too easy to lose a disc when those holes get overgrown. Seeing the course at
Cornwall expanded to an 18 hole course or perhaps developing a new course all together would
be awesome. Especially during this strange past year, disc golf has been an amazing way to
hangout with friends/family while doing a safe, distanced, outdoor activity and I don't know
what I would have done without it! I've seen people as young as 4 and as old as 75 out
playing, and it's an awesome way to get a diverse amount of people out to enjoy the beautiful
city that we live in! I would love to see the facilities supporting this sport continue to grow with
the large number of new players I continue to see and meet on the courses! Thank you so
much!
83
More support towards youth hockey
4/4/2021 11:06 PM
84
We need a rec center/events center, including an ice arena. With the new NHL team coming to
3/31/2021 11:09 PM
the region this year, there will be an explosion in demand for Hockey and other ice related
sports. I witnessed this growth in Colorado after the NHL came to the region.
85
The disc golf courses have become very crowded. More disc golf courses please!
3/31/2021 2:04 PM
86
Birch Bay DESPERATELY needs public restrooms. Maybe even multiple restrooms as there is
3/31/2021 12:39 PM
a lot of public beach!
87
The city needs more indoor soccer fields and an updated ice arena to support hockey and
3/30/2021 5:52 PM
skating growth
88
this survey was too long
3/30/2021 4:56 PM
89
With the impending interest in hockey to surge as a result of the new Seattle Kraken hockey
3/30/2021 9:19 AM
learn launching, our facilities for ice will be seriously under serviced and certainly outdated.. I
recommend improving, redeveloping, and at least preparing for the demand. Combining with
indoor soccer/ lacrosse for a vibrant and fiscally efficient mixed use facility makes sense as
well.
90
Please don't put a tax on the ballot for parks right now, We need to pass our tax for getting our
3/30/2021 5:49 AM
Birch Bay library built. Meanwhile, please open our Birch Bay park and put in the restrooms,
91
It was too long to think about each question in detail
3/29/20213:45 PM
92
Bathrooms in Birch Bay and to provide more picnic space and parks for events.
3/29/2021 3:36 PM
93
Every new park we should TRY to connect to a bike TRAIL (not just a lane but a TRAIL) so
3/29/2021 3:07 PM
you don't have to build as much parking.
94
survey too long to keep most people's attention
3/29/2021 2:44 PM
95
Reduce bureaucracy and be smart about how you spend money. Do not harass property
3/29/2021 2:26 PM
owners regarding their ability to drill private wells. Use the private sector to help you build and
don't run up costs due to crazy ideas..... keep in budget and make sure people are doing their
jobs.... reward good workers and get rid of those who have unnecessary jobs or are not working
hard....
96
Ensure for equitable restrooms - even now you have far more fixtures for men than women.
3/29/2021 2:20 PM
Move towards single occupant type toilet rooms. Better for potty parity.
97
POINT ROBERTS NEED HELP... the parks there are just sad. Need for more facilities that are
3/29/2021 1:24 PM
kept up. The boat launch should really be a top priority it is not is good working order.. need a
certain car to even attempt to launch boat there
98
Yes, I noticed that improving or building new infrastructure for ice hockey is not part of any of
3/29/2021 10:01 AM
the recreation plans. This sport will certainly grow in our county as the Seattle Kraken generate
excitement around ice hockey with more kids becoming interested in learning and playing.
More fans will generate more sources of income as well to pay for new infrastructure.
99
Charge for a Trail pass like in Okanagan County, Teton County, ID and other areas.
3/28/20214:49 PM
100
With the growing interest in hockey, the proximity to the Canada border and the new Seattle
3/28/20214:07 PM
team, we need to redesign the sports Plex to accommodate an improved rink and the
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Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
installation of additional rinks.
We need to improve/add more sheets of ice to the area. The local hockey association has
been growing at a rapid pace for years and the current facility is just not good enough. With the
Seattle Kraken coming this fall the interest in hockey is only going to grow. This community
needs to recognize how important this sport is to the county.
We need more and better ice rinks for hockey and skating. Renton has a nice facility with a full
sized and a smaller rink housed together. This would be wonderful to have here in Whatcom
county.
I think the county should considered the impact of having a new nhl team. It would nice to see
a new ice facility and outdoor rinks that could be used for roller hockey and lacrosse.
3/28/2021 1:43 PM
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104
Please continue to support and grow disc golf facilities across Whatcom County.
3/28/2021 11:31 AM
105
When will the city improve the Sportsplex? The city is a disrespectful landlord by allowing the
3/28/2021 11:16 AM
building to deteriorate.
106
Many of the questions had no relevance to me and NR was not a choice. There is no
3/28/2021 11:10 AM
information about going back to change a response. The questions about $ were practically
plucked out of thin air although I use the parks and trails almost daily and they are one of the
most important reasons I moved here (I am retired). Cornwall Park gets tons of use. Maybe we
need more like that for the new developement. I really dont like the current fad of meandering
sidewalks and think most of the new construction in town is extemely ugly and practically
unlivable.
107
There needs to be more field space for youth sports besides soccer. This town is over run by
3/28/2021 11:09 AM
soccer fields and there is a need for lacrosse, flag football fields. Astro turf would be preferred
as we get so much rain. We should think about offering tax incentives for people to donate to
building astroturf fields whether in someone's will or as a yearly donation, the Sportsplex is a
declining mess it should be redone somehow. If we don't invest in our young people how will
we survive as a thriving community long term? What about assessing a tax on local
businesses to fund youth parks? Thank you!
108
1 would request more resources for indoor ice surface activities. A new or expansion to ice
3/28/2021 11:06 AM
skating rink will be necessary, in my opinion. When WWU and Blazers return post covid, and
with an increase in interest and demand for ice time as a byproduct of the soon to be formed
Seattle Kraken hockey team, the single ice surface in Bellingham could become overburdened.
Youth hockey will need available resources to continue growth and affordable opportunities to
be more inclusive to all demographics.
109
There should be a "no opinion" or "not applicable" button. And a way to indicate I am interested
3/27/2021 9:54 AM
but I don't have enough information to judge.
110
There are many outdoor recreation areas already here and they don't seem to be crowded.
3/26/2021 11:46 PM
111
Disc golf has been rapidly expanding in Bellingham and Whatcom county. The current parks
3/26/2021 5:37 PM
supported disc golf opportunities are not adequate for the area or the population. The WDGC
has done an excellent job improving access to disc golf for the community and should be
further partnered with and invested in. A disc golf course should be a priority for the upcoming
development of King mountain area parks. With the king mountain neighborhood expanding so
rapidly, park and trail access in this area needs to be a priority.
112
Add more disc golf courses. Cornwall is packed with people all the time and Mossy Roc is
3/26/2021 10:38 AM
getting much busier. Huge increase in use in the past couple years.
113
no
3/26/2021 9:14 AM
114
Hoping for a county disc golf course. The Whatcom County Disc Golf Club has around 450
3/25/2021 8:14 PM
current members + all the other folks that enjoy playing a round of disc golf. Disc golf is an
increasingly popular sport and another course in this area would be a welcome edition for the
local golfing community. Thank you.
115
Please develop more beach access and facilities for cartop boat launch. Outdoor shower, foot
3/25/2021 7:25 PM
washers, hoses. Marine park is lovely but parking is often not viable. Glass beach needs
improvements. Larrabee boat launch could use outdoor shower, foot washer, hoses.
116
As a mountain biker and disc golfer, Bellingham leads the way in mountain bike infrastructure.
3/25/2021 6:39 PM
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The amount of trails, pumptracks, and the general community is amazing. However,
Bellingham is severely lagging behind in disc golf options. Disc golf is one of the fastest
growing sports in the country and Bellingham has the natural resources to become a top
destination for players. Kayak Point in Stanwood is an example of how quickly the sport is
growing, they have built a world class complex and players come from all around the Puget
Sound to pay to play. Thank You
117
Very long may discourage people from filling it out all the way
3/25/20214:23 PM
118
Some of the park services listed at the front of the survey I do not use. There should have
3/25/2021 3:12 PM
maybe been a N/A Option. Also, based on the recent conversation at the Whatcom County
Council Finance meeting, I do not support parks budgets supporting firing ranges.
119
lam one of many multi generation households (grandparents raising grandchildren) and would
3/25/2021 8:39 AM
love more sheltered seating areas in parks as well as areas for Bocci ball, croquet. We love
the glow in the dark croquet game in Ferndale the water "fight" as well.
120
Whatcom county needs more disc golf options. It's one of the fastest growing sports, and has
3/25/2021 6:37 AM
a very low cost and environmental impact.
121
Thank you for the survey. The choice and quality of outdoor hiking and forest areas is what
3/25/2021 6:29 AM
drew me to this community. I am will to pay for expanding and maintaining them. I am not in
favor of funding any recreation involving motorized equipment of any kind.
122
1 would love to see more access to lake whatcom and lake samish. Too many people and very
3/24/2021 11:35 PM
small amount of place to be able to enjoy these areas during the summer. Would also like to
see more parking at our trailheads and moto trails in the city.
123
Mountain Biking is overrunning traditional hiking trails. Many out of area mountain bikers leave
3/24/2021 9:37 PM
no room to park at trailheads. Mountain Bikers are endangering hikers in multi -use areas. I
prefer removing mountain bike access to Chuckanuts except along Interurban. Also, people
are leaving dog poop bags on trails. Improved signage reminding people is needed. I also favor
leash laws but feel people need to be educated as to why it is significant. I'd support funding
an ethics educational program. Leave no trace, safety, right of way, pet control and first aid.
124
More disc golf. Acquisition of struggling existing ball golf courses is a prime example of win-
3/24/2021 6:45 PM
win thinking, particularly in light of the growth demographics around the sport. Existing
examples are Kayak Point Disc Golf Resort (managed by Snohomish County), Tall Firs Disc
Golf Course (in Monroe), and many others across the nation. Most of these sites are pre -
developed, making adaptation to disc golf's much smaller footprint and far lower operational
costs extremely attractive.
125
Disc golf is currently underserved by both the city of Bellingham and Whatcom County. We
3/24/2021 5:42 PM
need more 18 hole courses, allowing for more people to enjoy this lovely sport and allowing a
market for all things related to blossom.
126
In Point Roberts, the loss of the dock at Lighthouse Park has been very detrimental to the
3/24/2021 3:07 PM
community. The original design failed, but that does not mean that it is impossible to build
such a facility. The ability to safely launch boats at the park, or at least somewhere in the
community is important to the tourist industry. In the case of PR, a non-resident fee would
severely negatively impact the use of any boat ramp. If anyone is exempted from user fees, it
should be all the property owners, since many of the people who would be using the facilities
would be Canadians who own vacation properties.
127
Need more of road parks for 4x4
3/24/2021 1:31 PM
128
Disc Golf is a rapidly growing sport that is underserved in both bellingham and whatcom
3/24/2021 12:31 PM
county. The course is Ferndale is poorly laid out with tee pads on only a few holes. This
course could be expanded to add additional holes. The course at Cornwall park is only 9 holes
long which results in it being overcrowded. Cornwall is a beautiful park/course, but it would be
nice to add additional holes in order to spread out players more effectively. In a sport growing
as fast as disc golf is, it would be nice to see whatcom county parks recognize that and make
the necessary and appropriate improvements to better serve the community. Disc golf is great
because anyone can play it and enjoy it, from 10 year olds to 804- year olds. It's a fun and
competitive sport environment that promotes exercise and sportsmanship. Please consider
allocating more funds to building our whatcom county disc golf community. Thank you!
129
Plan does not address indoor sports, most obvious missing component being ice hockey and
3/24/2021 11:47 AM
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Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
ice sports. Hockey is growing here and will bust open when the Seattle NHL team starts
playing, and hockey facilities in the county are woefully inadequate at present.
130
We need more Disc Golf courses! There are only two 18 hole courses within the county and
3/24/2021 10:16 AM
none of them are within Bellingham city limits. The Cornwall Park course is a great beginner
course, but is getting far too crowded during after work hours. Disc Golf is a quickly growing
sport with hundreds of members of the Whatcom Disc Golf Club. It has provided a great way
for members of the community to take part in a safe, socially distanced activity during this last
year of the pandemic.
131
Disc golf courses are becoming very popular and unfortunately are getting overcrowded. I'd
3/24/2021 9:52 AM
love to see another disc golf course added in the county.
132
Point Roberts needs a public dock. Lighthouse camp ground needs to be open this summer so
3/24/2021 9:39 AM
the locals can use it, like a lot of us do every year. Boundary Bay needs some attention, trash
cans at the seawall, parking signs, clean up.
133
Please develop more disc golf options. The number of players has exploded during the
3/24/2021 9:12 AM
pandemic, and the current public options (most notably Cornwall) are constantly crowded.
Adding another 9 holes to Cornwall would at least spread that out, and adding another course
that caters to players of a similar skill level would help even more. Improvement of the
Fairhaven course so that it isn't perpetually swampy with any recent rain would make it more
playable and spread players out as well.
134
Add more Disc Golf courses and ask questions specifically about Disc Golf to the next survey.
3/24/2021 8:53 AM
Also, please increase road bike accessibility as much as possible. Thanks!
135
Disc golf is underrepresented in Whatcom county and the increase in popularity will be too
3/24/20218:46 AM
much to maintain the crowds that come to Cornwall.
136
Would love to see additional disc golf infrastructure put into the Bellingham area.
3/24/2021 8:34 AM
137
There needs to be a network of scenic trails connecting Whatcom County Communities. This
3/24/20218:21 AM
could be achieved through cooperation with Farmers and Land owners through right of ways for
walking along property lines. Similar to those found in the European Countries such as Ireland,
Scotland, and England. This system of trails allows for more active regular movement for
pleasure and discovery of the County by simply "rambling" through the countryside. The
walkability of our county is appalling. Steps need to be taken to create an extensive network of
simple walking paths and gates to get around without motorized vehicles. In addition, Disc golf
is currently underserved by both the city of Bellingham and Whatcom County.
138
It's too long to expect most people to finish it. A few of the questions were ambiguous. With
3/24/2021 12:15 AM
the Kraken starting up this fall, demand for ice hockey, figure skating and public skating is
going to have a huge increase in demand. I'm surprised that wasn't even mentioned in the
survey.
139
Fix homelessness
3/23/2021 10:17 PM
140
This was way too long. A place to rollerblade would be nice.
3/23/2021 10:14 PM
141
Out of county visitors/tourist numbers will most likely continue to increase and put a large
3/23/2021 9:43 PM
burden on existing parks and trails. Funding by way of taxing new development and/or lodging
or fuel tax makes a lot of sense. Some motorized dirt bike trails could be easily incorporated in
the vast forest areas within the county and be done in a low environmental harm manner, no
worse than existing multiuser trails, let alone clear cutting. Thank you!
142
Our property taxes keep getting increased; our sales tax was just approved to be increased;
3/23/2021 9:03 PM
the cost of living in this area has been skyrocketing; all of these while our income does not
and has not increased. We are suffocating - we can not pay more. The county must
understand that we are still in a pandemic, we have an 18% unemployment rate! You can't
sqeeze any more out of us. We are taxed out and you have to come up with other ideas - think
outside of the box for a change and get creative rather than forcing us to pay more in taxes &
fees. How about increasing the property taxes of those with income levels above $300K?
143
More disc golf courses to handle the increase of disc golfers in the area. It's a fast growing
3/23/2021 8:28 PM
sport.
144 If the County is interested in acquiring more outdoor recreation facilities and land, then please 3/23/2021 8:09 PM
create a plan that will allow the Sudden Valley HOA to successfully disband, allowing us to
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simply be County constituents without additional layers of management and expense of
maintaining and insuring facilities and lands already used by the public. I'm sure the majority of
residents would be more than happy to sign over those facilities, sports fields, marina, golf
course, campground area, dog parks, trails.. heck, you can take the 2 pools, and the building.
we "lease" for pennies to house the Whatcom County Library This would save the County the
expense of acquiring and building new facilities and you would be rescuing 8,000 constituents
from the nightmare of living in a large HOA in WA - where legislation is written by lobbyists for
the Community Association Institute and our Senators' votes go to the biggest pockets. You
could even levy a small tax for roads to cover additional expenses (it would still be less than
the HOA assessments). County constituents flock to this area daily for the recreational
opportunities, including those within Sudden Valley which are all 100% funded and maintained
by homeowners HOA fees. And, we pay higher taxes than County constituents that live within
the BHam city limits. It's time to re-evaluate your relationship with Sudden Valley.
145
We need more disc golf courses. It is the fastest growing sport. Silver lake would be a
3/23/20214:35 PM
awesome place for a course . Camping fishing disc golf doesn't get much better than that.
146
Bellingham is in need of another disc golf course within city limits. We currently only have a 9
3/23/2021 12:52 PM
hole course at Cornwall but it gets crowded and congested. The growth of the sport could
support another 9 hole course or even an 18. Also the disc golf community will do ALL of the
work from getting funds for the baskets to maintaining the course when it's done. All we need
is space and permission.
147
The county needs a disc golf course or multiple. It's an inexpensive way to get people of all
3/23/2021 12:38 PM
ages using the land and facilities. The whatcom disc golf club has helped with the installation
of courses. Costs are for tee pads, baskets, parking, restroom, maybe a shelter.
148
I'm sure you'll get a lot of specific requests, so here's mine. There's a strong disc golf
3/23/2021 11:35 AM
community here and I'm sure they'd be happy to raise funds and do the labor to add an
additional course or two. There's plenty of room, especially in the new park on Cordata.
Thanks!
149
The survey is slanted towards expansion --buying more property. Adding amenities to existing
3/23/2021 11:08 AM
properties and making better use of these is a higher priority to me than adding more property.
Also, a $250 per $look in assessed value property tax is far too much, especially if the money
is only going to buy land.
150
Developers buy into existing infrastructure and need to pay for the same in their developments.
3/23/2021 9:38 AM
151
More kayak launching locations, an 18 hole disc golf course and more additional parks would
3/23/2021 9:22 AM
be nice. Thank you!
152
Whatcom county is severely lacking disc golf opportunities. The Whatcom Disc Golf Club
3/23/2021 9:04 AM
currently has over 460 members and is growing exponentially. This significant user group is
undeserved in Whatcom county. Disc Golf is one of the fasted growing activities and Whatcom
County needs to provide a quality 18 hole course.
153
Divert money from homeless to pay for parks
3/23/2021 7:01 AM
154
Land and development costs are lower now than they ever will be. Act promptly.
3/23/20216:57 AM
155
Please add more shoreline access for freshwater and saltwater areas for walking. Thank you!
3/23/2021 5:01 AM
156
These ideas seem old and outdated. Why are they using better technology to save money?
3/22/2021 10:35 PM
There should be solar panels powering every shelter and park office. Need new blood and
diversity in upper management. A female executive would be a great start. Parks management
are a bunch of old white men looking after their good of boy network covering each other's
asses. Clean house already
157
If able purchase land that will benefit the majority of citizens. With each new purchase have a
3/22/20219:20 PM
maintenance management plan in place to secure funding for on going maintenance. Also
provide more funding to the department to pay for existing park staff for maintenance & hire
new staff to spread the load.
158
Thanks for asking for our input. Federal transportation funds are also available for some trails.
3/22/2021 6:41 PM
I think there's a difference between transportation trails (paved/along roads) and recreation
trails (soft surface) that wasn't distinguished in the survey. Not sure how BC funds recreation
and trails, but they do have some of the best parks, trails and well maintained. The footing is
amazing for the wet conditions. Equestrian sporting and recreation activity in Langley BC
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Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
across the border is plentiful but yet almost non-existent here. Equestrian activities is
symbiotic with the preservation of open space, farms and outdoor recreation. Not to mentions
brings in a lot of jobs, tax revenue and businesses. Something Whatcom Cc might want to
consider for return on investment.
159
Love the parks, but we are already taxed a ton for space we can't use without a use permit.
3/22/2021 5:16 PM
That model makes no sense.
160
Whatcom County has much higher than typical canoe, kayak, SUP, etc. demographic. The
3/22/2021 3:52 PM
existing fresh and saltwater access for "pedestrian" launch of these craft is increasingly
crowded/overused. There is more and more conflict with motorized boat launch useage.
161
Please look at replacing or fixing the sea wall at Maple Beach. The footings are exposed and
3/22/2021 3:20 PM
the road has been undermined. (Point Roberts)
162
Yes. Point Roberts has been paying taxes to the county and not receiving the benefits in terms
3/22/2021 2:33 PM
of park maintenance or investment in improving the parks. For this reason I have answered $0
at every opportunity with regard to additional investments required by Point Roberts residents
for improvements. We have already been paying for improvements and maintenance that isn't
happening, so I adamantly oppose further taxation for this purpose. I have tried to answer your
survey with a view to the entire county, but I find myself utterly unable to divorce the Point
Roberts experience from the financing questions.
163
Adopt a place program. Inc] parks, trails, etc
3/22/2021 1:37 PM
164
My family are very disappointed with the erosion of amenities at Lighthouse Park in Point
3/22/2021 12:38 PM
Roberts. There used to be an interesting Orca display center, a great lookout tower, a floating
dock, a large slide and many swings in the children's playground. All of these have sadly
disappeared. The boat launch ramp is frequently covered with debris from the ocean. It
requires regular clearing. Lighthouse Park lacks a lighthouse. A few years ago a couple offered
to donate $500 000 towards the construction of a working lighthouse, but the offer was turned
down. This park was a focal point in Pt. Roberts for homeowners and visitors, young and old.
Today Lighthouse Park is a mere skeleton of its former self!
165
Point Roberts needs a boat launch, a dock and lighthouse at LIGHTHOUSE park.
3/22/2021 11:22 AM
166
Please try to provide these services for people who are less able to afford additional spending.
3/22/2021 11:21 AM
Nature and recreation should be available to everyone. Subsidize hiking, playgrounds, and
family activities, not golfing, shooting, and horseback riding!
167
It might be nice if you added some questions about degrees of personal usage of different
3/22/2021 10:44 AM
facilities.
168
no
3/22/2021 10:16 AM
169
Due to the homeless camps and rampant crime in our parks, I do not feel safe using them. So
3/22/2021 8:11 AM
I do not use them. The answer is not more parks —maintain and secure the ones we have!
170
YES! Point Roberts needs its dock back! Just because the engineers who built the last dock
3/22/2021 7:59 AM
didn't engineer it to withstand the ocean at Lighthouse Park site, doesn't mean we shouldn't
have a dock! It's completely unfair! Our dock is what makes the park fun. It's a travesty that
our community wasn't allowed to rebuild our own dock if you can't supply us with one.
PLEASE brings us a new viable dock or allow us to construct one. Thank you!
171
Parks are for families to enjoy. A place to take children or grandchildren and feel reasonably
3/22/2021 5:26 AM
safe. Homeless encampments should be removed immediately
172
thank you for soliciting citizens opinions
3/22/2021 5:20 AM
173
My concerns are all focused on Point Roberts, specifically Maple Beach. It would be great to
312IJ2021 6:58 PM
have Parks people around, to have some garbage collection along the beach and more county
support for the existing parks and public spaces. Lighthouse Park needs upgrades and
washroom facilities. The road tax that is collected in Point Roberts by gas stations should stay
in Point Roberts and be put towards proper road systems and BIKE LANES!!! The tar and
gravel used to repave all the roads a couple of years ago is awful. It's terrible to cycle on, to
rollerblade on, to skateboard on... It absolutely does not lend itself to a family friendly or visitor
friendly road system. Please consider redoing this job with asphalt.
174
Point Roberts has not been treated fairly by Whatcom County Parks and Rec... you need to
3/21/2021 6:46 PM
175
176
177
178
>Thanks for the awesome parks and trails! We love them. >Question 33 should apply to all
residential units, not just single family homes. >Since city parks were mentioned, how about
getting the city mayor to enforce the no -camping law. That would be a huge improvement for
allowing the general public to enjoy their local parks. >Can't end on that note. The city and
county parks significantly add to the quality of life here in the Bellingham area and help folks
lead a healthy lifestyle. The health savings alone justify any of the small public costs. Keep up
the great work!
179 1 think the least expensive route would be to improve access and amenities on land you
already own. Create access points at lakes and beaches from land already owned by city or
county. Increase parking and shuttle opportunities on land already owned. Don't allow
overcrowded parks to ruin the surrounding neighborhoods by allowing guest from outside the
community to park on and destroy private property. People leave trash everywhere and park all
over yards, it is not fair to neighbors of parks to have to do all the cleanup after park goers.
180 Limit downhill biking on hiking trails. TOO DANGEROUS
181 A few questions asked for choices regarding programs, classes and events. WCPR cut out
classes years ago, programs too and the Highland games. Besides Ski to Sea, what else @
WCPR is applicable to those questions? We recognize the important need for WCPR to have
more money to continue their high standards caring for our parks. Tossing out an increase of
$250. per $1000. is a huge jump from what we currently pay to support WCPR. We recommend
a more modest increase and yes we'd accept an increase.
182 There were no questions about actually using the parks and the quality of the experience. Too
many of the parks are becoming less usable and scary to go to because of the number of
homeless, the drug users, the trash. There are places we don't go to anymore because of it.
Sunset Pond, Cornwall Park, Post Point and areas of Fairhaven Park. Please consider some
sort of safety measures for those who want to use these beautiful parks legitimately in your
planning efforts. Realistically I know this is a problem everywhere.
183 More attention to the Point Roberts area. We have Lighthouse Park with no lighthouse and a
deplorable boat launch. A park at Maple Beach with no facilities... not even a garbage can. As
well as a cement erosion barrier that is failing.
184 Please build a Lighthouse at Lighthouse Park in Point Roberts.
185 This is a terrible survey. The questions are vague and not detailed enough to express my
views
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
have a representative from Point Roberts added to the committee.. example is the dock and
shelters and lighthouse Park ... we do not have an off leash dog park here and it is sorely
needed... our tax dollars are not utilized properly for our area.
Point Roberts LIGHTHOUSE 3/21/2021 5:14 PM
For the Maple Beach Park at Point Roberts - there needs to be garbage cans supplied by the 3/21/2021 4:43 PM
Parks Department - they say that they cant go on the road because that is not park so they
can be installed on the Sea Side of the seawall for the summer time - and they need to
address the smooth seawall that does not stop water momentum
Point Roberts Needs a public Dock and Boat launch 3/21/2021 4:36 PM
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186 Tax the hell out of any new development. Every building. That's how creeping sprawl happens. 3/21/2021 9:38 AM
187 Get rid of the invasive species taking over 3/21/2021 9:14 AM
188 We need a dock for boat launching in Point Roberts! It ridiculous that we still don't have one. 3/21/2021 9:14 AM
Use the area next to the marina and or create a public/private boat launch using
Port/Park/Marina entity. I believe the County owns the land next to the Marina/ breakwater.
189 Point Roberts needs a proper boat launch at Lighthouse Park. The previous floating dock was 3/21/2021 9:01 AM
a complete failure. RV sewer dump at campground is also desirable. No tax increases please.
We are already struggling to pay our property tax as is. Point Roberts suffers from high
taxation with very little benefit for our community. We have extremely limited access to county
facilities outside of Point Roberts.
190 take care of lighthouse Park amenities as this park is valuable asset for both residents and 3/21/2021 8:10 AM
visitors, boat ranp a must anf a viable floting dock too, fire your dock engineers our old float
12 / 18
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
system lasted 16 years. maintain the whale cener and observation stations.
191
dock and launch ramp in Pint Roberts
3/21/2021 7:16 AM
192
County Parks has dramatically reduced the facilities at Lighthouse Park in Point Roberts,
3/21/2021 6:59 AM
creating a source of considerable frustration to residents and visitors. The dock, Orca Center,
whale -watching platform, and much of the boardwalk & picnic area have been removed,
compromising people's ability to make full use of the park. Washrooms are locked and outdoor
spigots disabled much of the time. At minimum, the dock should be replaced. It was used for
boat launches, fishing, and just children hanging out. What we have left is a pathetic ghost of
what we once had.
193
Please please do NOT raise taxes in any capacity or formula to pay for more parks!!! Reduce
3/21/2021 1:50 AM
expenses if changes must be made. The parks are great and we as a community CANNOT
stand more taxes on anything. Families are already greatly suffering under so many massive
ways in which we are taxed. If you continue to tax us to death this county will be destroyed of
economic diversity. You will be left with a fully gentrified elite community and also an
increasingly impoverished one.
194
Consider Point Roberts as a stand alone project. /. Area .gas tax % goes to parks and trail.
3/20/2021 11:50 PM
ESP. Washrooms on the beach..
195
Start being more fiscally responsible with the tax money you are currently using. politicians
3/20/2021 11:44 PM
should have to sign a contract so that they are responsible for the promises they have made to
get elected
196
1. No added accommodations for motorized vehicles, bicycles, or horse trails that are used by
3/20/2021 8:13 PM
hikers. 2. No added accommodations for motorized water craft. 3. County population growth
and services for same to be paid from new residential and commercial construction diverse
fees, levies, taxes. 4. Additional funding from gas taxes for all, but no increased use fees for
parks which would deter same from being a travel and stay destination for tourism income for
all businesses and not just income from park use.
197
More and more people are getting in to fishing and hunting. Most are bank fishermen. There's
3/20/2021 7:14 PM
definitely not enough bank/ dock fishing spaces in Whatcom County. Lake Terrell is a prime
example. The one fishing dock fills up so quick every day and it's very hard to get a spot to
fish. One to 2 more socks with access astound that lake would be great. Lake Samish has
really no bank fishing access. The rocky bank that runs by 1-5 doesn't have safe or good open
areas to fish.
198
It was very long and there were some terms I was unfamiliar with, such as farmland
3/20/2021 7:01 PM
conservation and general obligation bond, that could have used more explanation.
199
Single family homes are not the problem; the giant rental buildings including the lower income
3/20/2021 6:59 PM
buildings are the issue. These tenants do not contribute anything to the tax base. The single-
family home owner is paying an exorbitant amount of taxes to cover the use of Park facilities
by renters. A tax should be placed on renters or rental buildings to pay for the additional use
and additional creation of Parks.
200
Point Roberts needs a new and safe small boat launch facility The breakwater at marina would
3/20/2021 5:53 PM
help shelter landings and launching. An all weather dock at lighthouse park would also greatly
increase access and fishing opportunities.
201
There are a lot of rental apartments going up built by outside investors. There are a lot of out of
3/20/2021 5:19 PM
town day use especially Chuckanut, northshore. There should be more pay to play options.
Taxing single family homes already stretched thin should not be an option. When are renters
paying in their subsidized housing? City should be taxing the large developments who get tax
breaks. Parks should be charging out of county user fees. Offer less access for out of town so
locals can enjoy local access. Stop the homeless encampments and destruction of our parks
that tax payers have to pay to clean up.
202
1 answered the survey based on where in the county I live, the facilities that I know are
3/20/2021 5:17 PM
important to my neighbors and me, while still trying to keep the big picture and environmental
issues in mind.
203
A Fishing wharf, Breakwater and launching ramp are desperately needed in Point Roberts paid
3/20/2021 5:06 PM
for by user fees,tax increases or bond issue. Get it done!!!
204
We need a functional boat launch and more public access to our beaches
3/20/2021 5:05 PM
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Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
205 Biggest issue for me and many others in Point Roberts is a small boat dock. 3/20/2021 4:33 PM
206 Please build a safe boat launch at the Point Roberts Marina where the boat launch was 3/20/2021 4:28 PM
suppose to be built. We have public parks access there. It is safe from wave action behind the
break water in the entrance. We also need a Walking/fishing pier with end ramp to seasonal
dock for boat access Lighthouse Park Point Roberts. but the safe boat ramp is the most
important
207 Whatcom County has not met current obligations to provide a boat launch at Lighthouse park. 3/20/20214:16 PM
The previous design failed and the residents are in need to sustain the viability of this place.
We already pay high taxes, can Whatcom County Parks please explain what will be done to
proceed with a public boat launch at Lighthouse Park, or at the Marina.. Thank you! J Katz
360-945-2383
208
209
210
211
212
213
214
215
216
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218
Boat launch facility Point Roberts. As part of any multi family/commercial development
shoreline project require beach access. Institute growth management fees and require project°
to pay proportional share impact on existing and proposed park master plan facilities.
none
Survey too long
Point Roberts badly needs a dock. In the last few years, the quality/quantity of facilities at
Lighthouse Park has seriously deteriorated. We lost our beloved dock that was in constant
use, and the picnic area and boardwalk was seriously downsized. It is depressing to remember
the wonderful park that was in place when we moved here. What's more, Lily Point parking
area is in constant need of repair. The holes often get humongous. The person who works
there now is doing her best, but we need a lot more gravel to fix it.
There needs to be a way to register no opinion. For example, I do not own or ride horses, so I
have no opinion about supporting them. ATVs are in another category though, because they rip
up trails and cause pollution (including noise and litter) which has an adverse affect on me and
the environment. Some of the questions here were ambiguous, which left me guessing at
meanings.
The county and cities have overspent budgets building and maintaining parks used by a small
percentage of actual taxpayers. Increasing user fees is only reasonable. Enough with the land
buys. We are starting to vote no on all taxes if you don't start showing some restraint.
Need more splash pads, pool & easy walking trails.
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We don't need superficial cosmetic improvements such as a new lighthouse. We need 3/20/20213:11 PM
infrastructure for the post pandemic era to make our community financially independent. A
good place to start would be investing in a 3D printer to develop affordable housing, public
work spaces equipped with high speed internet so people can work remotely, and tourist
accommodation, investment into renewable energy such as wind and water turbines for our
shoreline. 3D printed buildings are a fraction of the cost of traditional construction so the
equipment pays for itself. For more information see this video. https://youtu.be/kA4DFv4lU7Q
Land acquisition is woeful in Point Roberts. All inland forest areas here have trails and I've
seen no effort to acquire these relatively inexpensive tracts. The inland forest areas and
wetlands could be acquired for what will look like tiny amounts in the future. Land acquisition
and easements should be prioritized because once it's gone, it's gone. Programs and facilities
can come later. People of all ages already use these lands and treasure them. The vast
majority of people that I meet, who aren't seeking to profit from development, would prefer that
we retain our forests and landscapes to additional programs and facilities. I know this because
I talk to people about it. It's why people come here and like to live here. Save these lands now.
50 acres of forest land with trails that are heavily used by the community sold recently for a bit
over one million dollars. No public access was sought (or at least made public) for the even
more heavily used Reno Ranch beaches when that enormous stretch of coastal land adjacent
to Monument Park was bought and subdivided. The loudest voices here are the pro -
development ones who try to shame the majority based on their own personal financial
interests. They are a small minority who are largely responsible for slowly killing what most
people love about this place.
no 3/20/2021 2:34 PM
3/20/2021 2:31 PM
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3/20/2021 2:11 PM
3/20/2021 1:56 PM
There should be a n/a or a no interest section in some of the answers as I have no opinion (or 3/20/2021 1:54 PM
14 / 18
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
a negative opinion) on some uses such as mountain bikes, ATVs or horses.
219 Point Roberts property owners pay somewhere between $5 and 6 million annually in property
taxes and yet the county parks are substandard by any measure. Lighthouse Marine Park has
only an ugly rusty steel light (no lighthouse in sight) and nether park has a dock. The LH
campground is tiny and the facilities are bare bones, The trails at Lily Point Park have fallen
into disrepair because of erosion. Considering that the PR's economy is solely based on
tourism, the lack of attention from Whatcom County to the two parks is a disgrace.
220 Concerned about the use of parks for non -recreational purposes. Safety factors based on lack
of security of inner city parks and non -enforcement of rules.
221 No need to spend more money for recreational facilities to be taken over by the homeless until
we reclaim for the general public what we already have. I do not want to spend for current or
new recreation facilities for myself or my grandkids when the ones we have have become
dangerous homeless campgrounds and drug distribution .sights
222 Point Roberts feels like a forgotten child in all the county plans. For the live of God, can
someone pay attention to us and fix the dock? Fix Lighthouse Park? It's like a death by a
thousand cuts over the last 20 years here.... and proportionately it's hard to see where all the
taxes collected from Canadian and USA property owners get invested back in the Point.
Please please please pay attention to us.
223 please remember that Point Roberts is here and part of whatcom county ... we have no easy
access for boats or kayakes ....we need a boat dock.
224 Willing to pay more tax or levy for a dock at lighthouse park. Each town should pay for their
own facilities
3/20/2021 1:35 PM
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225 Point Roberts lost a lot of park amenities at Lighthouse park: boardwalk space, whale lookout, 3/20/2021 12:06 PM
dock, even the boat launch is now substandard. I would like to see a pier built using the
existing (newish) pilings at Lighthouse Park. It seems engineering isn't able to create a suitable
dock, so maybe a pier (non -floating) would be feasible.
226 Point Roberts needs a public boat dock for launching and docking small watercraft such as
kayaks, canoes, fishing boats and sailboats
227 Put more money into the County Parks in Point Roberts -- with input from the local popluation.
Build a fishing dock in Point Roberts.
228 We love using the parks in this county and hope that it will be a big draw to people moving
here in the future. However Bellingham needs to get a grip on the homeless situation because
it would be a very sad situation to put money into the parks to have it become a homeless
camp and not a place that families and other people can enjoy. We moved here from California
and know that Whatcom county impressed us with its parks And I hope that others that visit or
move here will continue to love our park system as much as we do.
229 Point Roberts raised funds for a lighthouse to be built but at Lighthouse Marine Park, but the
County refused based on "maintenance cost." Crazy. We need a lighthouse and a system to
cover maintenance. #2. All dog waste disposal bags provided by County should be FULLY and
rapidly BIODEGRADABLE please. Trailside bags and bag "escapes from pockets" show up
everywhere, including on beach and in the sea. Easy remedy and good public education move.
230 Remove the homeless so we can enjoy the parks again! My family can no longer use the
parks in the city of Bellingham due to the trash, needles and unstable people who are milling
around. My families safety in parks is my #1 priority, we are forced to go to Ferndale or Lynden
to enjoy parks.
231 Parks are overcrowded, trail etiquette becoming a huge problem. We need more dedicated
space, more public access of ocean and lake shorelines. Trails are being overused and
inappropriately used causing damage. There is too much competition for parking and camp
sites and backcountry access. Fee increases are justified but marginalized communities
should be able to access for free. We live next to Gailbraith Mountain and have seen a huge
influx this year and problems with overcrowding and lack of respectfulness on the trails and to
others that tried to share access.
232 Keep up the good work !
233 Keep and acquire as much natural property such as what the Whatcom Land Trust does as a
15 / 18
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Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
legacy for the future.
234
Keep parks and recreation areas free from squatters
3/20/2021 6:59 AM
235
Less mtn bike trails, enforce off leash dog and dog cleanup rules, support water access sites
3/20/2021 5:20 AM
236
1 would like to see some type of a "speed limit" on trails that are used by both walkers and
3/19/2021 11:45 PM
bikers.
237
You should have a N/A button to hit.
3/19/2021 10:07 PM
238
We need to be aggressive and prioritize preserving natural space, creating new parks, and
3/19/2021 9:53 PM
recreation opportunities. Keep Whatcom Green, keep our quality of life high. Don't allow over
development and degradation of our environment.
239
Encourage non -motorized, conservation -oriented use of trails, parks, etc.
3/19/2021 9:25 PM
240
There is a huge over reach in projected Lake Whatcom park development. Campsites near the
3/19/2021 8:24 PM
highest levels of the Bonneville Power lines will cause summer forest fires. Who will pay for
those mistakes. Bikes and hiking trails mixed together just don't work. Parking permits should
be required. And boat launch areas should require shoreline development permits.
241
More money spent on parking and trail maintenance on highly used Stimpson Family Nature
3/19/2021 8:08 PM
Preserve and Lookout Mountain Forest Preserve. Parking is horrible at Stimpson park, for
example, and is under urgent need of improvement.
242
no
3/19/2021 7:48 PM
243
No.
3/19/2021 7:42 PM
244
Too many grouped items many would find mutually exclusive (e.g. cross country ski trials and
3/19/2021 7:35 PM
snowmobile trails). I feel the goal should be primarily on acquiring and preserving opens space
now and I developing and improving later. It's gonna be impossible soon.
245
Having bathrooms open year round would be extremely helpful to families with children. My
3/19/20217:14 PM
family would love to see another dedicated swimming area in the county (with good parking).
Thanks!
246
Wilderness/Open Space doesn't come back. Future generations won't thank us for the
3/19/2021 7:10 PM
buildings and roads. They will thank us for the things we refused to destroy.
247
No
3/19/2021 6:28 PM
248
Please do more to enforce park rules Dogs are off leash everywhere Patrons pollute and leave
3/19/2021 6:22 PM
trash at the parks Homeless people occupy the parks full time My wife will not go alone to any
park in Bellingham Shameful
249
1 do not feel safe in our current parks or trails due to the homeless/drugs.
3/19/2021 6:16 PM
250
Do not add any new taxes
3/19/2021 5:45 PM
251
More and different parks are always great!
3/19/2021 5:29 PM
252
Lake Padden and Lake Whatcom need public boathouses for human powered boats. Monthly
3/19/2021 5:14 PM
or annual rental by users.
253
consider "user pays" - for children in athletic programs or using sports fields, there could be
3/19/2021 5:12 PM
"business" sponsors to make it affordable for some families (biking, snow sports etc should all
be "user pays") - and BTW, several parks I used to take my grandchildren too can no longer be
used due to being taken over by those unhoused.... this will be an ongoing and likely growing
problem. This survey doesn't represent the reality of that problem.
254
In an effort to respond to all the questions, I picked "3" when I didn't have enough information.
3/19/20214:49 PM
255
Please. Protect and Add to open space. Preserve land now before it is ruined by greedy
3/19/2021 3:18 PM
developers. Just because people want to move here doesn't mean they can. Dont ruin this
beautiful land with density. Please preserve! Also separate dog trails from hiker trails. The
dogs are way out of control, off leash, and they leave feces everywhere. Dog owners are
increasingly irresponsible for their pet poop. Multipurpose trails are having more and more
problems. No dogs allowed on trails for hikers.
256
We need more natural space and parks to keep a good quality of life. Thanks for your work.
3/19/2021 2:49 PM
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Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
257
You should have other options for people's satisfacton with facilities, eg, "I don't use these" or
3/19/2021 12:54 PM
"no opinion"
258
If you want surveys like this to accurately represent residents, make it a lot shorter and a lot
3/19/2021 11:55 AM
more clear.
259
Mixed use trails for mountain bikers and hikers can sometimes create hazards for both.
3/19/2021 10:21 AM
260
No thank you
3/18/2021 8:09 PM
261
Our country has minimal options for motorized use (dirt bikes, atv, snowmobile, etc) and this is
3/18/2021 7:30 PM
a topic that really needs reevaluated and addressed.
262
stop development, make more green space.
3/18/2021 6:26 PM
263
The online reservation system is terrible. Canadians and people out of the area should not be
3/17/20214:56 PM
able to reserve campsites etc at the same time as walkham County residents. Welcome
County residents should have priority. Canadians and out of county residents should have to
pay more. Do not let the homeless population take over our parks.
264
Too much undeveloped waterfront property held by all local jurisdictions not yet developed for
3/17/20214:21 PM
needed recreation.
265
Survey difficult to answer as familiarity is driven by park or parks used. Observed deterioration
3/17/2021 1:30 PM
of standards, dog leash enforcement and landscape due to park users refusal to follow the law
at Hovander. You need more personnel there to uphold the law and make the park safe again.
266
More Garbage cans!
3/17/2021 7:05 AM
267
Doing well everywhere except motorized off road options. Doesn't seem Whatcom county has
3/17/2021 4:00 AM
any at all.
268
We live in a beautiful area with areas that should be protected and available for the enjoyment
3/16/2021 10:24 PM
of residents.
269
Please build more disc golf courses near where people live (Bellingham). The courses that
3/16/2021 10:18 PM
exist are extremely popular and busy. If you build it, we will come (and we'll help take care and
develop parkland). And more places for swimming! More people/more heat=explosion of anger
and terrible health outcomes, especially for poor people.
270
More outdoor/indoor swimming options and off leash fenced dog areas please!
3/16/2021 10:17 PM
271
Maintain what exists - no new taxes.
3/16/2021 8:25 PM
272
Not once was aquatics mentioned in this survey. We don't need more trails or parks, we NEED
3/16/2021 8:19 PM
more pools. We are surrounded by water and we have one pool for our region. This is
irresponsible. People in Whatcom County should not have to go to Skagit County or Canada to
swim or get their kids swim lessons. Stop ig boring the aquatics community! Our pools are
over subscribed and run down.
273
Keep homeless drug addicts out of parks
3/16/2021 8:00 PM
274
Survey is not very well done. When asking me how I feel about things you should be finding
3/16/20217:19 PM
out if I use the facility/do the activity first. This information along with what I would support is
actually giving you better data about what the community wants. Would also be good to ask
what parks or trail areas I use the most.
275
no
3/16/2021 7:07 PM
276
The people in this county cannot afford more taxes, more fees, etc. We have a very high -risk
3/16/2021 6:12 PM
poverty population and the outdoors are their only escape. Please do not over tax citizens. The
money is there - you just have to stop wasting it!
277
We need public swimming pools in Bellingham.
3/16/2021 5:42 PM
278
1 would prefer not to have additional regressive taxes like gas or vehicle licensing or park
3/16/2021 5:23 PM
access fees implemented. Property taxes here are at least half, if not a third of the area I
moved here from. We were lucky enough to be able to afford a home and would be happy to
pay a little more to support the community. Frankly, we bought because we could not prove to
the three rental companies that own this town that we could afford to pay rent on a one or two
17 / 18
Whatcom County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Survey
bedroom apartment but were able to get approved for a mortgage of 500,000 with a lower
monthly cost than those apartments. After moving to Bellingham (admittedly not very long ago)
we noticed there is a tension between land preservation and equitable housing. I have heard
many long term residents (of Bellingham) call for increased development because of the
skyrocketing housing costs while others admonish development for preservation purposes. I
would encourage Bellingham City officials to consider reforms to the rental monopolies in town
(not allowing pets, increasing rents exponentially, requiring 4 times rent to prove you can live
there, etc). That may relieve some of the tension between the strong feelings about
development vs. preservation. This may not be the right place, but since this asked for
comments I figured I would share.
279 You were missing collaboration and consultation with local Native Tribes. You are under treaty
obligations to consult with the Lummi Nation and other communities whose lands and sacred
sites were stolen. Especially since you discussed fishing and water access.
280 There needs to be more playgounds in the Puget St area, there is nothing within walking
distance. The Samish Crest trail system should be expanded and protected.
281 It might be beneficial to look into a tiered system for real estate tax. We are seeing an
increase in housing prices and some are being boxed out of the system. If we could tax living
in houses lmillion or above a different rate than those under 500k that would be beneficial to
those locals who are having a hard time finding a home.
282 Keep it simple. No special programs. Parks, trails restrooms, parking.
283 Please prioritize protecting our natural and open spaces! I would advocate for the county
prioritizing more land acquisitions if necessary to mitigate for potential development
encroachment.
284 The urban already developed areas are being ignored. As density increases, insufficient parks
are being set aside for everyone to have outdoor space. All new urban development should
required new park space and every resident should have a balcony for urban outdoor space.
285 The county needs more mountain bike and multi -use trail systems to exist. This cannot be at
the expense of moving equestrian or moto users. We have so much land at our disposal and
very few trails.
286
287
288
289
290
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Trail connectivity is a high priority. 3/15/2021 7:00 PM
We invest WAY too much in Football, Baseball type sports facilities ( and the upkeep in those 3/15/2021 6:53 PM
facilities) - when those sports are actively played by only a minor fraction of our population. We
need to support activities available ( not spectated) by the largest proportions of our residents.
More ( many more) cabins, yurts, alpine huts, etc will get folks out and about. I mourn, still,
the loss of Kulshan Cabin - for example. Also, food service and supplies at Silver Lake,
Samish Lake. Etc will reduce travel/carbon and increase satisfaction. FYI / the su age on
Shehome hill is wrong. You spent a lot of money on the new tower, but not a dime on updating
the map. It's that kind of lack of detail and care that is frustrating. The project manager should
have updated the way finding ( yes - it's COB, I know, please tell them )
There needs to be a shoulder on the roads going around north lake Whatcom for runners and
cyclists safety.
Our parks are wonderful and varied in the landscapes they protect and services they provide.
Parks will be more and more important as the population grows.
Provide more dog bag dispensers, and trash cans to put it in. Then enforce the law better.
What good is new trails, or parks, when you see dog poo, or used dog bags on the ground or
hanging in the trees.
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3/15/2021 5:57 PM
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Appendix C:
Master Capita/ Improvements List
DEPARTMENT WORK PLAN
MASTER CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS LIST
10/42023
Project
i
SCHEDULE
PARK FACILITY
0_Countywide
REGION
All
PROJECT
Misc. Parks Capital
SCOPEr
TBD
FEET
$600,000
$100,000
$100,000
$100,000
$100,000
$100,000
5100,000
r
TOTAL
$0
Improvements
0_Countywide
All
Comprehensive
Develop departmental
REET
$100,000
$50,000
$50,000
$0
Parks, Recreation
planning and guidance
and Open Space
document (6 year planning
Plan
period)
0_Countywide
All
Misc. Parks Capital
TBD
REET
$600,000
$100,000
$100,000
$100,000
$100,000
$100,000
$100,000
$0
Improvements
O_Countywide
All
Comprehensive
Develop departmental
FEET
$100,000
$50,000
$50,000
$0
Parks, Recreation
planning and guidance
and Open Space
document (6 year planning
Plan
period)
0_Countywide
All
Forest
Develop forest
FEET
$100,000
$25,000
$75,000
$0
Management Plan
management plan for all
departmental forested
properties, including Lake
Whatcom Park, Lookout
Mountain Forest Preserve,
and Canyon Lake
Community Forest
Alston Preserve
West
Day use
Assist Lummi Island
REET
$50,000
$50,000
$0
improvements
Heritage Trust with facility
improvements
Alderson Beach Access
West
Day use
Day use parking, restroom,
REET, LTAC
TBD
improvements
and beach access
improvements
Bay Horizon Park
West
Development
Playfields, multi -use trail,
Grants, FEET, NW
$815,000
X
$815,000
repave parking areas and
Park District,
improve ADA accessibility,
Donation
Install
directional/informational
signage
Bay Horizon Park
West
Development
Install energy systems
Grants, FEET, NW
$500,000
x
$500,000
upgrade, (e.g. rooftop solar
Park District,
arrays, electric vehicle
Donation
charging stations, etc.)
Bay Horizon Park
West
Demolition
Remove Hostel Building at
Grants, REET, NW
$493,000
$493,000
$0
Bay Horizon Park, restore
Park District,
area to multi -purpose
Donation
playfield
Bay to Baker Trail -Maple
East
Planning
Develop master trail
REET, LTAC,
TBD
X
Falls to Glacier
corridor plan linking
Grants, Donation
recreational and
community assets
1 OF 11
DEPARTMENT WORK PLAN
MASTER CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS LIST
10/42023
Project
SCHEDULE
PARK FACILITY
Bay to Baker Trail -Maple--
REGIONNOT
East
PROJECT"••E
Development
Improve restroom &
FUNDING SOURCEr
REET, Grants,
$4701,11000
r24
2025
2026r2028
•
X
TOTAL
$470,000
Falls to Glacier
parking facilities,
Donation
reconstruct bridges,
boardwalk and install
7
wayfinding signage, tread
upgrades and re-establish
degraded trail sections
Bellingham Senior Activity
West
Development
Improve ADA accessibility,
Grants, FEET,
$866,000
$94,000
$772,000
X
$0
Center
upgrade interior lighting
Donation
(Code compliance), Energy
efficiency upgrades (e.g.
insulated windows, roof -
replacement, HVAC, solar
array, etc.). Investigate
subgrade conditions for
long-term building
stabilization
Bellingham Senior Activity
West
Utilities
Replace aging and damaged
REET
$50,000
$50,000
$0
Center
sewer line
Birch Bay Beach Park
West
Development
Develop Parking &
REET, LTAC, Parks
$5,365,000
$260,000
$5,105,000
$0
Restroom Facilities (Phase 1
District, Grants,
3 Costs per Master Plan)
Donation
Canyon Lake Community
East
Restoration
Alternate Access Agreement
REET
$150,000
$100,000
$50,000
$0
Forest
Canyon Lake Community
East
Development
Develop expanded trailhead
Grants, FEET,
$625,000
X
$625,000
Forest
facility, (asphalt parking,
Donation
CXT Toilet, improve
pedestrian circulation,
install
directional/informational
signage)
Canyon Lake Community
East
Restoration
Reconstruct Bridges (2-20
REET,
$275,000
X
$275,000
Forest
foot bridges, and 3-40 foot
Conservation
bridges), Trail rehabilitation
Futures,
with partner service
Donations
organizations.
Cherry Point Beach Access
West
Development
Parking, Beach Access,
REET, Grants,
$375,000
X
$375,000
Signage
Mitigation
C+uicanutMtn hark ";Booth
Samish Park
Evaluate regional trails
Grants, Donation
$20,000
X
$20,000
connector trail
connectivity, including2.7
miles connecting Samish
Park
C ft(ck8nut Mtra, dark „
but ;
Pine & Cedar
Install restroom, kiosk,
REET, Grants,
$625,000
X
$625,000
Trailhead
signage and parking
Donation
.:'
improvements
limprovements
Table
ice
20F 11
East Region
South Region
West Region
DEPARTMENT WORK PLAN
MASTER CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS LIST
10/42023
Project
NOT
SCHEDULE
PARK FACILITY
Deming Eagle Homestead
REGION
East
PROJECT
Development
SCOPE
Install CXT toilet, improve
FUNDING SOURCE
REET, Grants,
Budget
$625,000
2023
2024
2025
2026
2027
2028
D
X
TOTAL
$625,000
Park
accessibility, (walking paths,
Donation
parking, picnic areas).
Dittrich Park
South
Development
Develop regional park
REET, Grants,
TED
X
master plan that considers
Donation
both Dittrich and Samish
Parks in the context of
providing appropriate
recreational access that is
-
sensitive to existing land
use patterns, site limitations
and facility demand, and
opportunities for regional
connectivity
Dittrich Park & Samish Park
South
Development
Develop park master plan,
REET, Grants,
$3,250,000
X
$3,250,000
for new day -use facility,
Donation
(Parking, restrooms, picnic
area, water access).
East Whatcom Regional -
East
HVAC
Evaluate existing boiler
REET
$134,770
$134,770
$0
Resource Center
efficiency and serviceability
East Whatcom Regional -
East
Commercial
Upgrade appliances, and
Grants
$150,000
$150,000
$0
Resource Center
Kitchen
accessories to upgrade
facility to commercial
kitchen status
East Whatcom Regional
East
Vehicular and
Remove and replace
REET, Grants
TBD
Resource Center
Pedestrian Paving
damaged and degraded
pavement and curbing
East Whatcom Regional
East
Day use
Construct play fields and
REET, Grants,
$660,000
X
$660,000
Resource Center
improvements
covered court
Donation
Ferndale Senior Activity
West
HVAC
Replace/upgrade heating
REET
$335,000
$33S,000
$0
Center
I
I
land ventilation system
3 OF 11
DEPARTMENT WORK PLAN
MASTER CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS LIST
10/412023
Project
NOT
SCHEDULE
PARK FACILITY
Headquarters Complex
REGION
East
PROJECT
Administrative
SCOPE
Renovate administrative
FUNDING SOURCE
REET
Budget
$1,500,000
2023
2024
2025
2026
2027
2028
D
x
TOTAL
$1,500,000
Campus
office, add staff restroom,
Renovation
public meeting space, entry
& gallery. Expand staff
office space into adjacent
administrative building.
Construct new department
maintenance shop, convert
-
existing facility to office
space and dry -storage.
Renovate public parking
area, pedestrian walkways,
and informational signage.
Headquarters Complex '
East
Administrative
Replace/upgrade heating
REET
$93,623
$93,623
x
$0
Office HVAC
land ventilation system
Headquarters Complex
East
Administrative
Install energy systems
REET
$500,000
x
$500,000
Campus
upgrade, (e.g. rooftop solar
Renovation
arrays, electric vehicle
charging stations, etc.)
Headquarters Complex
East
Service Building
Electrical service upgrade &
REET
$165,000
X
$165,000
shop floor
Headquarters Complex
East
Parking and
Improve ADA accessibility,
REET
$372,400
$77,300
$295,100
$0
pedestrian
replace deteriorating and
improvements
uneven paved surfaces, etc.
Headquarters Complex
East
Utilities
Water Service &
REET
$81,411
$81,411
$0
Distribution - Phase II
HovanderPark- Tennant
West
Planning
Develop park master plan
REET
$275,000
$275,000
$0
Lake
addressing current capital
projects (restrooms, picnic
shelters, road and parking,
maintenance facility, animal
contact area, etc.),
community connections,
improvement opportunities
and operations plan.
Hovander Park - Tennant
West
Day use area
Construct 3 picnic shelters
REET
$440,750
$66,700
$374,050
$0
Lake
HovanderPark- Tennant
West
Animal Contact
Improve accessibility, pens
Donation
$260,000
X
$260,000
Lake
area
and features
HovanderPark- Tennant
West
Maintenance
Construct shop/
REET
$130,000
$65,000
$65,000
$0
Lake
building
equipment storage building
able Ke
40F 11
East Region
F
South Region
West Region
DEPARTMENT WORK PLAN
MASTER CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS LIST
Iff. Pf l
Project
SCHEDULE
PARK FACILITY
Hovander Park -Tennant
REGIONNOT
West
••JECT
Getz Barn
SCOPE
Parking, trailhead and
FUNDING SOURCEr
REET, Grants
$500,000
r24
2025
2026r
X
$500,000
Lake
recreational
restoration of old dairy
development
construction
HovanderPark- Tennant
West
Road, entry,
Surface/construct parking
REET, Grants
$2,400,000
$250,000
$225,000
$1,925,000
$0
Lake
parking & utility
lots and improve access
Improvements
roads. Construct new
restrooms and renovate
existing restroom facility.
HovanderPark- Tennant
West
Development
Install energy systems
REET, Grants
$500,000
X
$500,000
Lake
upgrade, (e.g. rooftop solar
arrays, electric vehicle
charging stations, etc.)
Hovander Park -Tennant
West
Hovander Barn
I
Exterior paint, weather
REET, Grants
$147,000
$147,000
Lake
proofing
Hovander Park -Tennant
West
Interpretive
Remodel interiorfor Multi-
REET, Grants,
$504,500
$67,000
$437,500
$0
Lake
Center
use, and replace septic
Donations
system.
HovanderPark- Tennant
West
Bridge
Replace bridge over slough
REET
$250,000
x
$250,000
Lake
between Tennant Lk &
Animal Contact Area
HovanderPark- Tennant
West
Flood repair and
Restore gravel roadway
REET
$262,000
$80,000
$182,000
X
$0
Lake
mitigation
surfaces, damage to
improvements
structures, and identify
flood reduction/mitigation
opportunities such as
improving stormwater
conveyance structures (e.g.,
culvert at hand launch
facility)
HovanderPark- Tennant
West
Rental residence
Structure demolition and
REET
$55,500
$55,500
$0
Lake
site rehabilitation
Hovander Park -Tennant
West
New restroom
install new restroom
REET
$1,350,000
X
$1,350,000
Lake
building
building in park core
ititeVBtb3n iY8�l
ontfi--Trail
Resurface trail, (e.g.
REET,LTAC,
$250,000
X
$250,000
improvements
upgrade pavement surface
Donations
from gravel to asphalt).
Improve wayfinding and
interpretive signage
Jensen Family Nature
West
Parking
Asphalt pavement, concrete
REET, Grants
$225,000
X
$225,000
Reserve
Improvements
curbing, striping and
improved drainage facilities
5 OF 11
DEPARTMENT WORK PLAN 10/42023
MASTER CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS LIST
Project
SCHEDULE
Jost`VaritlerVac it ;East
REGIONNOT
, ?
PROJECT"•PE
Van Zandt
Renovate community hall
FUNDING SOURCEr
REET, Grants
$552 0000
$100,000
$452,000
r26
2027
2028•
TOTAL
$0
" Community Hall
facility to improve ADA
access, and increase
occupancy
3iisfnvantlerYacht
East. ";
' Day -use
Replace wood play
Grants, REET,
$325,000
X
$325,000
i. Improvements
structure, surfacing, edging
Donations
and fall -protection.
Resurface sports courts.
LA Whatcornpark
South"".
HertzTrail
Capital maintenance
REET
$353,500
$353,500
$0
program
Lake What'EbriL�,ark
`: South,' „I Parking & day -use
-:
Expand parking and
REET, Grants,
$3,839,000
$500,000
$3,339,000
$0
improvements
trailhead facility, drainage
Donation
improvements, Day -Use
area, shelter, and
restrooms. Relocate
existing single stall vault to
midway point on Hertz Trail
...t.... om {dark
South
Mooring Dock
Construct small boat docks
REET, Grants
$500,000
X
$500,000
Lek 11t'atcom,i;'"ark
`SouthI_
Hertz Trail
1 mile multi -use trail
REET, Grants
$117,000
X
$117,000
Extension
Leke Whatcom#ark`
South` `. `
South Lake
Develop vehicle access and
REET, Grants
$1,500,000
X
$1,500,000
Whatcom
trailhead, day use amenities
-
Lighthouse Marine Park
West
Planning
Initiate regional Pt Roberts
REET
TBD
regional recreation master
plan. Evauatefacility
connectivity, capacity, and
development/redevelopme
nt of park amenities, for
example opportunities for
an off -leash dog park,
observation platform,
and/or boat launch facility
Lighthouse Marine Park
West
Park Office &
Replace siding and roofing
REET
$168,350
$168,350
$0
Rental
Lighthouse Marine Park
West
Walkway
Surface, widen and connect
REET, Grants
$30,000
X
$30,000
improvements
0.5 mile walkway for
accessibility
6OF11
DEPARTMENT WORK PLAN
MASTER CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS LIST
10/42023
Project
SCHEDULE
PARK FACILITY
Lighthouse Marine Park
REGIONNOT
West
••JECT
Development
SCOPE
Install energy systems
FUNDING SOURCE-
Grants, BEET, NW
$500,000
r23
2024
2025r
X
$500,000
upgrade, (e.g. rooftop solar
Park District,
arrays, electric vehicle
Donation
charging stations, etc.)
Lighthouse Marine Park
West
Campground
Reconstruct campground
REET
$175,000
X
$175,000
Improvements
roads, campsites, camp -
furnishings, shelters, and
utilities (water, electric,
septic). Construct new
restroom facility near group
camp, install
directional/informational
signage.
Lighthouse Marine Park
West
Parking
Asphalt pavement, concrete
REET
$254,900
$254,900
X
$0
Improvements
curbing, striping and
improved drainage facilities
Lily Point Marine Park
West
Parking
Install asphalt pavement
REET
$241,136
$241,136
$0
Improvements
over existing gravel parking
area.
U kout Mountain Forest '
South,, -?
Road repairs
Repair 2021 storm damage
REET
$660,016
$100,016
$560,000
$0
i7res'er�e
LoaJ(out Mo�ntiain Forest °`
South
Parking
Install asphalt pavement
REET
$124,000
$124,000
$p
Pfe5rve
Improvements
over existing gravel parking
area.
Lcrokbut Mourrfaln Forest,
SovLh;
Trail system
Develop 98 miles of trails
BEET, Force
$1,087,900
$392,150
$264,500
$241,500
$189,750
x
$0
Fiiesewand Lake;
improvements
and auxiliary trailhead
account, Grants,
Whacam PaYlf
facilities
Donation
Lummi Island
West
Water access
Evaluate feasibility of
REET
$103,450
$103,450
$0
locating and developing a
boat and water access
facility
Maple Falls Community
East
Development
Service building stabilization
REET, Grants,
$1,025,000
$200,000
$825,000
$0
Park
(roof replacement), Parking,
Donation
restroom and information
kiosk. Improvements to
also serve as trailhead for
Maple Creek Park
Nugent's Corner River
East
Day -use
Expand & improve parking,
REET, grants,
$625,000
X
$625,000
Access
Improvements
pedestrian walkways, CXT
donations
-
toilet,
directional/informational
signage.
Phillips 66 Soccer Park
West
Walking Trail
Surface 1.0 mile trail
REET
$140,000
X
$140,000
C
70F11
DEPARTMENT WORK PLAN 10/42023
MASTER CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS LIST
Project
NOT
SCHEDULE
PARK FACILITY REGION
f#lantatlonR,iffa(fangel�' Southi`�,i
PROJECT
Indoor Range
SCOPE
Replace target carrier
FUNDING SOURCE
Grants
Budget
$460,000
2023
$100,000
2024
$360,000
2025
2026
2027
2028
D
TOTAL
$p
--
Improvements
system replacement,
remodel facility interior.
P1afiYa#1oq Rifle,{,iarige , ;;Paccess/bridges
utdoor range
Renovate outdoor rangeREETI
$1,355,500
$700,000
$655,500
$p
mprovements
facilities, (facility
C—MIA! ON
improvements, and
enhanced environmental
protection measures).
Point Whitehorn
each
Bridge replacement
REET
$150,000
X
$150,000
Point Whitehorn Marine West
Parking & Day -Use
CXT Toilet, Asphalt
REET
$250,000
X
$250,000
Reserve
Improvements
pavement, concrete
curbing, striping and
improved drainage facilities
Samsh park �otrth
# Water Supply
Replace water system
REET
$50,000
$50,000
$0
Upgrade SCOPE
Sarri)sh Park- SoU.. '
Boat rental
Construct concession facility
REET
x
facilities
to improve customer
service, and operational
efficiencies, (Dockside
rental kiosk, and support
infrastructure)
Sam slaPark South
Lodge Renovation
Renovate lodge, (restrooms,
Grants, REET,
TBD
x
concessions, office space,
Donations
etc.)
SamIthPetk ,;. South
„Parking and
Replace concrete walkways,
REET
$325,000
$75,000
$250,000
$0
walkway
improve ADA access, picnic
1 improvements
area improvements, parking
and drainage
improvements, and trail
upgrades
Satxi5h ParkSouth,'
Structure
Structure demolition and
REET
$50,000
$50,000
$p
-'.
Demolition
site rehabilitation
Semiahmoo Park West
Restroom Building
Reconstruct restroom
REET
$50,000
$50,000
x
$0
sewer connection to City of
Blaine sewer system
Semiahmoo Park West
Interpretive
Remove and replace exising
REET
TBD
Signage
interpretive signage
MM
i
8 OF 11
DEPARTMENT WORK PLAN
MASTER CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS LIST
10/42023
Project
SCHEDULE
PARK FACILITY
Silver Lake Park 'East
REGIONNOT
••JECT
Park Programming
SCOPE
Evaluate potential
FUNDING SOURCEr
REST
TBD
x
programming opportunities
to improve recreational
services. Engage staff to
identify potential expansion
opportunities (e.g., living
history at Gerdrum, and
Black Mt. Forestry, campfire
talks, and skill share events)
Silver Lake Park
East
Lagoon Bridge
Replacement of 300' of
REET
TBD
x
walk replacement
boardwalk
Silver Lake Park
East
Beach and picnic
Terraced lawn day use
REET
$435,000
X
$435,000
area
improvements, walkway
improvements
and stair replacement, sand
volleyball, replace lagoon
walk
Silver Lake Park
East
Renovate Bath
Eliminate showers, remodel
Grants, REET
TBD
x
House
interior to expand toilet
facilities and other
plumbing fixtures.
Renovate facility to
accommodate four -season
use.
Silver Lake Park
East
Red Mt
Reconstruct site utilities
Grants, BEET,
TBD
x
Campground,
(water & electric), renovate
Donations
Group Camp &
campsites, camp
Cedar
furnishings, roads &
Campground
driveways.
Improvements
Silver Lake Park
East
Development
Install energy systems
Grants, FEET, NW
TBD
x
upgrade, (e.g. rooftop solar
Park District,
arrays, electric vehicle
Donation
charging stations, etc.)
Silver Lake Park
East
Renovate cabins:
Renovate cabins, indoor
BEET
$183,700
$121,242
$62,458
$0
scope each one
plumbing, flooring &
insulation
Silver Lake Park
East
Cabin area parking
repave cabin access road
FEET
X
$0
improvements
and cabin parking area
Silver Lake Park
East
Rental Cabins
install new rental cabin
$175,000
X
$175,000
structures
Silver Lake Park
East
Restroom building
Construct new restroom
REET
$2,150,000
$1,000,000
$1,150,000
$0
building in Group
Campground
.be Ke
East Region
9 OF 11
�'.
South Region
West Region
DEPARTMENT WORK PLAN
MASTER CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS LIST
1O 2023
PARK FACILITY
REGIONNOT
••JECT
Project
SCHEDULE
Silver Lake Park "East
Maintenance
SCOPE
Renovate and expand
FUNDING SOURCEr
REEY
r25
2026
2027r
•
x
TOTAL
building
existing shop, (restrooms,
breakroom, work area, and
associated parking and
security facilities).
Silver Lake Park
East
Trail
Construct new 2 mile multi-
Grants, REET,
x
improvements
use connector trails,
Donations
expanding loop
opportunities.
Silver Lake Park
East
Restroom &
Construct new shower and
REET
$2,050,000
$1,850,000
$200,000
$0
Shower building
restroom building near
cabins & cedar camp
Silver Lake Park
East
Day -use
Reconfigure and surface
REET
X
$0
improvements
Day -use parking, (Lodge,
-
Boat Launch, Playground,
and Gerdrum).
Silver Lake Park
East
Picnic Shelters
Renovate or replace existing
REET
picnic shelters
Silver Lake Park
East
Campground
Install playgrounds in 2
REET
$110,000
X
$110,000
playgrounds
campgrounds
Silver Lake Park
East
Lodge Renovation
upgrade concessions, ADA
REET
$231,000
$231,000
X
$0
upgrades to restrooms and
deck &dock areas, and
install fire suppression
system, and roof
replacement.
Silver Lake Park
East
Ranger's
Structure demolition and
FEET
$61,800
Residence
site rehabilitation
South Fork Park
East
Trail development
Construct 4.25 mile multi
REET, Grants
$862,300
$132,500
$149,200
$306,800
$273,800
$0
use trail
South Fork Park
East
Nesset Farm
Deveop trailhead and
REET, Grants
TBD
access route from Saxon Rd
South Fork Park
East
Nesset Farm
Care taker residence
condition assessment
South Fork Park
East
Restore Nesset
Renovate interior of historic
Donation, Nesset
$997,500
$152,500
$845,000
$0
Farm buildings
farmhouse SCOPE
Foundation
South Fork Park
East
Loop trail
gravel surface existing soft
REET
$276,600
$276,600
$0
improvements
surface trail at trailhead
facility
South Fork Park
East
Nesset Farm
Install new public restroom
Donation, Nesset
$175,000
$65,000
$110,000
$0
Restroom
and replace bridge @
Foundation
Nesset Creek
5tmp5onfaltlity.%laYure `;,South
Parking
Asphalt pavement, concrete
FEET, Donations
$80,075
$80,075
$0
Reserve
Improvements
curbing, striping and
improved drainage facilities
Surrias3etNOX,Gilter
East;Building
Roof replacement
REET
$25,000
$25,000
$0
,
�-
stabilization
tame
Ke
East Region
10 OF 11
- :South
Region
West Region
DEPARTMENT WORK PLAN 10/42023
MASTER CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS LIST
11 OF 11
Appendix D:
Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan
Goals and Policies related to Parks &
Recreation
11141,4113
!�.
The Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan is reviewed every 8 years, and was last updated and adopted by the County
Council in 2016. The Comprehensive Plan provides broad guidance for Whatcom County activities. The following
Whatcom County County -Wide Planning Policies (Adopted April 1993 and revised 3/11/1997, 1/25/2005, & 2/9/2021)
are taken from the County's Comprehensive Plan and pertain to parks and recreation:
H. Open Space/Greenbelt Corridors
1. Adequate open space is vital to the quality of life and sense of place in Whatcom County. The county, cities, Port
of Bellingham, and other appropriate jurisdictions should coordinate protection of linked greenbelts, within and
between Urban Growth Areas, parks, and open space to protect wildlife corridors and to enhance recreational
opportunities, public access and trail development.
2. The county and the cities shall plan for greenbelts and open space in their Comprehensive Planning processes and
coordinate with each other. Open space systems should include lands which contain natural areas, habitat lands,
natural drainage features, and/or other environmental, cultural and scenic resources. With increased residential
densities, jurisdictions also should ensure provision of adequate neighborhood parks and play areas within safe
bicycling and walking distance for children.
3. The county and the cities shall encourage, to the extent it is feasible, separation of Urban Growth Areas
through planning, zoning, development regulations, open space purchase, conservation easements and other
mechanisms which may be appropriate. Also, an array of incentives such as density bonuses, design flexibility
and transferable development rights shall be offered to affected land owners.
4. The County and Cities should work cooperatively to protect and restore stream corridors within Urban Growth
Areas that support anadromous fish.
County -Wide Transportation Facilities and Strategies
7. Priorities shall be established and expenditures coordinated for county -wide bicycle and trail corridors. Bicycle and
pedestrian -specific trails and other facilities shall be included during project planning and review. Coordinated
corridors and cost sharing should be explored among all responsible and interested parties.
L. Impact Fees
1. The county and the cities are encouraged to adopt fair and reasonable impact and/or mitigation fee ordinances to
ensure that new growth pays its fair share of the cost of capital facilities, such as transportation improvements,
parks, and schools..
Within the Comprehensive plan there are chapters which include goals, objectives, and associated policies that apply to
park, recreation and open space activities. These include but are not limited to the following:
CHAPTER 4 —Capital Facilities
Goal 4F: Achieve level of service targets for park and recreational facilities identified in this chapter. Support objectives
and priorities identified in the Comprehensive Park and Recreation Open Space Plan, in the Natural Heritage
Plan, and in this plan.
Policy 4F-1: The following level of service standards are adopted for parks and trails:
Developed parks 9.6 acres per 1,000 population
Trails 0.60 of mile per 1,000 population
Policy 4F-2: Seek non -capital opportunities to acquire, enhance and maintain park lands, trails, and other recreational
facilities. Consider partnering with cities, school districts, park & recreation districts and others when planning
and implementing park and trail projects
Policy 4F-3: Include acquisition and development costs in the six -year CIP for future trails projects.
Policy 4F-4: Place a high priority on improvements to existing county recreational sites and facilities and using them to
their full potential, including those outlined in the Whatcom County Comprehensive Park and Recreation Open
Space Plan, before investing capital in the acquisition and development of new facilities.
Policy 4F-5: Continue to provide and support activity centers, including senior centers, to serve the growing population
of Whatcom County by the following methods, as needed, which are listed in priority order: (1) implementing
programming changes, (2) adding space to existing centers, and/or (3) establishing new centers.
Goal 41: Consider alternative funding sources to assure levels of service adopted in the plan.
Policy 41-1: After all other financing options have been exhausted, consider the use of bonded indebtedness to finance
major capital investments in infrastructure.
Policy 41-2: Identify and promote public private partnerships to provide and enhance the provision of necessary services.
Goal Q: Ensure that capital facilities provide protection for threatened and endangered fish and wildlife species.
Policy 4.1-1: Fish and wildlife habitat should be carefully considered when selecting projects for the Six -Year Capital
Improvement Program.
Policy 4.1-2: Projects selected for the Six -Year Capital Improvement Program shall not degrade habitat for threatened and
endangered species.
Policy 4.1-3: Projects selected for the Six -Year Capital Improvement Program should strive to restore degraded habitat
for threatened and endangered species, when the projects are in direct contact with such habitat. The County
Council will determine when such restoration is financially feasible through adoption of the six -year capital
improvement program and the County budget.
CHAPTER 6 - Transportation
Goal 6F: Develop a system of bicycle and pedestrian facilities that encourages enhanced community access and
promotes healthy lifestyles and supports the recreational segments of our economy.
Policy 6F-1: Planning and design shall emphasize connectivity to the greatest extent possible, creating regional networks
of bicycle and pedestrian facilities. Regional networks include both an on -road bicycle facility and walkway
network and a regional multi -use path network. These networks should be interconnected; for example,
walkways connect seamlessly with pedestrian paths and bike lanes connect to shared -roadway bike routes. The
networks should also be coordinated with public transportation hubs and activity centers to enable multimodal
trips of longer distances.
Policy 6F-2: Provide safe pedestrian facilities in all new construction and reconstruction transportation projects where
there is the potential for significant use, unless physically or financially impracticable. An example of such a
location would be in a traffic corridor within one mile of a school or community center that links residents to
such facilities. Traditional curb/gutter/sidewalk designs may not always be the ideal approach for projects since
they require large impervious surfaces and may detract from the rural atmosphere. Other separated walkway
designs should be considered that provide a physical barrier from motorized traffic.
Policy 6F-3: An effective bicycle and pedestrian system for Whatcom County will require facilities for both regional
connectivity and local access. Regional connectivity can be defined as transportation routes connecting major
activity centers, towns, and cities within the region. A good example of a regional facility would be the proposed
Nooksack Loop Trail or the existing bike route along Hannegan Road.
Policy 6F-4: Coordinate with local community organizations, associations, or other governing structures in designing and
implementing improvements, such as safety improvements and infrastructure. Identify, analyze, and prioritize
pedestrian and bicycle projects based on the following criteria:
• safety improvements are needed
• serves a residential or relatively high density rural or urban population area
• serves a location frequently traveled by seniors, children, or people with disabilities
• leads to a school or is part of a school route
• provides access to a recreational facility or park
• functions as a key network link for the regional nonmotorized network
• offers economic development potential for an underserved area
• ease of implementation due to low cost, public ownership, or other feature
CHAPTER 7 — Economics
Goal 7C: Ensure adequate infrastructure to support existing and future business development and evolving
technology.
Policy 7C-7: Recognize the importance of governmental services and facilities to support economic development. Update
capital facility plans and appropriate adequate funding for public facility upgrade or expansion necessary to serve
projected population and business growth.
Policy 7C-10: Develop plans and prioritize facilities for the County to become internationally recognized as a "Trail -Town"
tourist destination (one that offers 100 miles or more of contiguous walking/hiking trails) by 2027.
Goal 7E: Enhance the economic trade, tourism and industrial siting advantages of the county's location adjacent to the
Canadian border.
Policy 7E-1: Support attractions for Canadians and other visitors so they will remain in the community longer and
distribute their spending throughout the community. Some of the examples would include support for such items
as the following:
• Events such as the "Ski to Sea" race and festival.
• The Whatcom Museum, Mount Baker Theater, other historic and cultural centers, and community
revitalization efforts.
• Parks and open spaces.
• The Bellingham Festival of Music.
• The Mount Baker outdoor recreation area.
• Farmers markets and other natural resource -based activities.
• Projects, events and activities of unincorporated areas such as Point Roberts, Birch Bay and East County.
Goal 7G: Coordinate economic development with environmental, resource, and other comprehensive land use and
open space policies and measures to enhance the community's overall quality of life.
Policy 7G-1: Recognize the natural environment as a major asset and manage environmental resources accordingly. We
need both economic prosperity and environmental sustainability.
Policy 7G-3: Provide support to Whatcom County's tourist industry to maintain and enhance a balance between the
economic benefits of tourism and the local quality of life.
Policy 7G-5: Coordinate environmental and economic planning efforts.
Goal 7H: To promote economic diversity, continue to support the resource industries as significant elements of the
local economy including the employment base.
Policy 71-1-2: Work with other agencies and groups to improve the condition of the fishery resource, including habitat
maintenance and enhancement, especially for habitats utilized by threatened and endangered fish species.
Policy 71-1-7: Encourage growth of tourism, recreational activities, and businesses that provide for diversity of the natural
resource industry, provided that they comply with the County regulations and, when located in a rural area,
preserve the rural character.
Goal 7K: Enable a geographic balance for economic growth within the capacities of the county's natural resources,
natural systems, public services, and public facilities.
Policy 7K-4: Encourage resource and tourism based recreational, commercial, and cottage industry uses to create
economic opportunity in the rural areas of the county.
CHAPTER S — Resource Lands
Goal 81): Reduce land use conflicts between Whatcom County's agriculture and non-agricultural landowners.
Policy 8D-9: Encourage low intensity recreational activities that help sustain and are compatible with agricultural uses.
Goal 8J: Support the Department of Natural Resources to ensure forest practices avoid adverse impacts to the habitat of
threatened and endangered fish and wildlife species and to marine waters that support shellfish resources.
Policy 8J-1: Ensure that adequate riparian buffers, based on best available science, are maintained along rivers and
streams.
Policy 8J-2: Minimize sedimentation to rivers and streams, to the greatest extent possible, using BMP's.
CHAPTER 9 - Recreation
Goal 9A: Address county -wide recreational needs by adequate provision of day use parks.
Policy 9A-1: Because the cities currently provide the highly developed urban parks, the County's role should be to
provide rural regional parks that are centered around a unique feature or recreation opportunity.
Policy 9A-2: Because of the unique features of the site, location within the county is not as important as good road
access.
Policy 9A-3: Development standards will vary according to the use intended. For the intensive use park areas, all facilities
and improvements should be built to a high standard and designed to be easily maintained.
Policy 9A-4: All parks must be designed to create a minimal impact upon surrounding property and to the site itself.
Policy 9A-5: Day use parks should be designed with one entrance and control point so that entrance fees can be
charged.
Policy 9A-6: If possible, regional parks should be located on existing or proposed trail routes and ideally should enhance
countywide trail system connectivity.
Policy 9A-7: The parks should be designed to accommodate a range of age groups, accessibility and interests.
Policy 9A-8: The County should only accept sites that meet the above standards.
Goal 913: Provide multi -use camping parks to serve county resident needs as well as provide a tourism draw.
Policy 913-1: All the policy statements and design standards for regional parks should also apply to multi -use camping
parks.
Policy 913-2: Because camping parks will attract many non -county residents, they should be recognized for their tourism
value but at the same time county residents should not subsidize the cost of camping. Camping fees should pay
for campsite expenses.
Policy 913-3: A wide variety of camping types should be offered including primitive sites, tent sites, full -service RV sites
and group camping areas.
Policy 913-4: The camping areas should be physically separated from the other parts of the park with the ability to be
closed off during winter months.
Policy 913-5: Most large camping areas should be designed to a high standard with full -service hookups, flush toilets and
rest rooms, showers, laundry and other support facilities.
Policy 913-6: Future Park development should consider the financial ability of the County, and should focus on existing
park lands before considering further acquisition.
Goal 9C: Expand outdoor recreation opportunities for county residents by providing enjoyable trails for hiking,
horseback riding, bicycling, walking, boating, and other trail activities in a safe environment.
Policy 9C-1: Trails should be interesting and attractive. Trails which follow natural water courses, pass significant natural
resources, traverse interesting scenery or cross areas of outstanding beauty provide interesting and enjoyable
experiences for the trail user.
Policy 9C-2: Incorporate existing and proposed trails into a comprehensive and integrated system of looped and
interconnected trails which give users a wide choice of routes and environments.
Policy 9C-3: Trails should link other recreational uses in the Foothills area and connect to existing trail systems in the
National Forest and state land.
Policy 9C-4: The wet climate of Whatcom County may preclude extensive multi -use of some trails or require seasonal
limitations. Trail routes should take into account soil conditions, steep slopes, surface drainage and other physical
limitations that could impact the areas from overuse.
Policy 9C-5: Bicycle trails should provide opportunities for the recreational rider as well as the touring and commuter
bicyclist.
Policy 9C-6: Bicycle routes and paths should minimize the conflicts between motorists and bicyclists.
Policy 9C-7: Hiking trails should have a variety of lengths and grades for the casual stroller as well as the serious hiker
and when practicable, be accessible.
Policy 9C-8: Hiking trails should reach areas of natural beauty with the purpose of permitting hikers to seek areas of
solitude and get away from the built environment, especially noise and other pollution.
Policy 9C-9: Equestrian trails should be accessible most of the year. Some equestrian trails should be close to the urban
areas.
Policy 9C-10: Adequate parking, signage, trash receptacles, and toilet facilities should be provided at all major trailheads.
Policy 9C-11: Where public funds are used to construct or maintain dikes, levees or revetments, public access should be
encouraged for trail purposes, where appropriate.
Policy 9C-12: Water trails for non -motorized boats should be identified with provisions made for parking, launching
areas, and places of interest along the water route where boats can land.
Policy 9C-13: Work toward partnering with other agencies and the public to accomplish recreational goals.
Policy 9C-14: Investigate multi -solutions that will accommodate several county goals, such as recreation, water retention,
and flood prevention measures, utilizing a similar piece of property.
Policy 9C-15: Sharing of corridors for major utilities, trails and other transportation rights of way is encouraged when not
in conflict with goals to protect wildlife, public health and safety.
Policy 9C-16: Implement the goals, policies and recommendations of the latest Whatcom County Pedestrian and Bicycle
Plan that are consistent with this plan and within the County's fiscal capabilities.
Policy 9C-17: Promote the integration of trails within subdivisions, planned unit developments, and other development
proposals that provide internal circulation and connect to nearby recreational opportunities and ideally enhance
countywide trail system connectivity.
Policy 9C-18: Acquisition of and planning for trail corridors should be encouraged as new subdivisions and development
occurs, if the trail has been identified in a park, trail, open space, or other plan adopted by Whatcom County.
Policy 9C-19: Continue to update the trails inventory to identify all designated and non -designated trails in the county.
Policy 9C-20: Continue to support the County's long-range parks and recreation vision of developing a countywide
trail network, while respecting property rights, and working collaboratively with willing landowners to acquire
easements or property for public trails, when opportunities exist.
Policy 9C-21: Provide non -motorized access to regional recreational and outstanding scenic areas in the county.
Policy 9C-22: Reduce conflicts between the various trail user groups and provide appropriate signage.
Policy 9C-23: Provide bike lanes or wide shoulders where appropriate for trail corridor connection in conjunction with
major road improvements.
Policy 9C-24: Coast Millennium Trail - Continue to develop trail corridors, particularly off -road segments such as the
airport connector and shoreline access.
Policy 9C-25: Hertz North Lake Whatcom Trial Extension - Develop and implement a plan to either acquire Rights of Way
for a trail corridor along the abandoned RR R/W between the existing North Shore Trail and Blue Canyon Road or
consider an alternative route to link these points.
Policy 9C-27: Nooksack River Trail - Develop and implement a plan to acquire Rights of Way for a trail corridor and
picnic areas along the Nooksack River between Ferndale and Glacier, to provide recreation opportunities, inter -
community transportation, and tourism development.
Policy 9C-28: Continue to collaborate with other organizations, groups, or individuals consistent with the goals identified
in the Natural Heritage Plan for Whatcom County and the Whatcom County Pedestrian and Bicycle Plan.
Goal 91): Provide specialized recreation areas taking advantage of unique opportunities to serve both county residents
and visitors.
Policy 9D-1: Because these facilities are unique, adopt specific standards for each one individually.
Policy 9D-2: Explore need for community parks as undeveloped areas of county increase in density.
Policy 9D-3: Encourage development of sport field complexes to meet the needs of organized recreation activities, using
public and private partnerships where possible.
Policy 9D-4: Promote the integration of recreational and open space opportunities in subarea planning, subdivisions and
other development proposals.
Policy 9D-5: The dedication and acquisition of open space and recreation opportunities should be encouraged as new
subdivisions and development occurs.
Goal 9E: Recognize the shoreline as one of Whatcom County's unique assets and provide adequate physical and visual
access for present and future generations.
Policy 9E-1: As economically feasible, acquire for public use as much of the saltwater shoreline as possible. Public and
private resources should be explored to further this policy. A reasonable goal is to acquire for public access a
minimum of 15% of the saltwater shoreline and adjacent tidelands in Whatcom County.
Policy 9E-2: Continue to review the Nooksack River Plan (Jones and Jones, 1973) and implement those elements which
are beneficial, appropriate and economically feasible.
Policy 9E-3: Provide pedestrian, interpretative and small boat access sites for a diversity of public shoreline.
Policy 9E-4: When the County acquires property for flood storage or fish and wildlife purposes, the County should
consider secondary use for park and open space purposes.
Goal 9F: Coordinate with the DNR to provide ORV opportunities.
Policy 9F-1: Recognizing that there will continue to be a demand for ORV riding, the county should continue to assess
its role in the ORV program. Between the Washington State Department of Natural Resources and the Forest
Service, some joint solution may be possible.
Goal 9G: Encourage multi -use indoor activity centers to meet the needs of the population, using public and private
partnerships where possible.
Policy 9G-1: Support multi -use of the existing senior/community centers to maximize their full potential.
Policy 9G-2: Continue the cooperation between the County and the Cities and Point Roberts Park District on ownership
and management of the existing senior/community centers.
Policy 9G-3: Evaluate the cost/benefit ratio of adding a multi -purpose facility on the property owned by the Parks
Department at Smith and Northwest Roads to meet the expanding demand by all age groups in the Bellingham/
Ferndale growth corridor.
Policy 9G-4: Expand the Plantation Rifle Range to meet the needs of citizens and law enforcement agencies.
Policy 9G-5: Acquire property for a buffer area around the Plantation Rifle Range to insure the ability to continue its use
in the future.
Policy 9G-6: Continue to utilize the Roeder Home for cultural arts activities, community events and gatherings while
utilizing partnerships, leased space, or creative opportunities to accommodate program expansion.
Policy 9G-7: Continue to monitor the need for additional aquatic facilities in the community, with the basic assumption
that Whatcom County will not be an indoor aquatic provider in the near future.
Policy 9G-8: Continue to search for partnerships with other public agencies and private groups in providing recreation
facilities such as golf facilities, camping, and resort centers.
Policy 9G-9: Expand the partnership concept to incorporate school buildings and other public or private facilities which
can accommodate meetings and recreational functions.
Goal 91-1: As economically feasible, continue to implement the Whatcom County Comprehensive Park, Recreation and
Open Space (CPROS Plan) goals and policies through adoption of the Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan
Six -year Capital Improvement Program (CIP).
Policy 91-1-1: Continue to monitor park and recreation service needs throughout the county and encourage others to
provide the identified service needs.
Policy 91-1-2: Develop facilities and areas that will be particularly attractive to Whatcom County residents.
Policy 91-1-3: Develop and maintain facilities at a high standard. These standards should be established in accordance with
the Whatcom County Comprehensive Park and Recreation Open Space (CPROS Plan) and the Whatcom County
Comprehensive Plan.
Policy 91-1-4: Design and develop recreation facilities for low maintenance.
Policy 91-1-5: In keeping with policies in other chapters of this plan, consider strategies for ensuring the provision of
community parks in accordance with appropriate standards. In the residential UGAs not associated with cities and
in Rural Communities, mechanisms are needed for acquisition, development, and subsequent maintenance and
operations. Community Associations and Park Districts are options to be explored.
Policy 91-1-6: Continue to plan for full utilization of existing senior/community centers and explore partnerships to help
absorb future need.
Policy 91-1-7: Continue to identify and develop major planning initiatives identified in the CPROS Plan.
Policy 91-1-8: Develop strategies to acquire land currently leased for the Plantation Rifle Range and a buffer around the
rifle range
Policy 91-1-9: Galbraith/Lookout Mt. — Develop and implement a plan cooperatively to acquire Rights of Way for trail
corridors and for the purchase or lease of additional acreage, along with pursuit of formal usage and mitigation
agreements with private individuals or land owners, to preserve or expand the recreational values for residents
and tourists with reasonably limited impact on both local residents and the environment.
Policy 91-1-10: Stewart Mt. - Negotiate with current landowner to obtain formal usage agreements for access to logging
trails, to open public access corridors between Lake Whatcom recreation areas and the South Fork Valley.
Goal 91: Develop a stronger financial base for recreational services.
Policy 91-1: Design future recreation facilities and areas with the ability to charge user fees.
Policy 91-2: Explore new innovative methods of financing facility development, maintenance, and operating needs.
Policy 91-3: Consider joint ventures with private clubs, public agencies, commercial operations and other groups to build
and maintain facilities.
Policy 91-4: Seek to design and develop facilities that will encourage tourism.
Policy 91-5: Consider the establishment of park impact fees based on the Growth Management Act.
Policy 91-6: Experiment with novel public -private partnerships to provide facilities that will provide a quality experience
to draw tourists to Whatcom County's parks. Some examples would be privately operated zip -line facilities and
strategically located seasonal food trucks. Part or all of the "rent" provided could be by the provision of privately
funded public use facilities such as toilets and shuttle buses used to service these private facilities.
CHAPTER 10 — Environment
Goal 10A: Protect natural resources and systems, life, and property from potential hazards.
Policy 10A-1: Support good stewardship of Whatcom County lands, and apply this principle to the management of public
lands.
Policy 10A-10: Support acquisition, conservation easements, open space, and other such programs to protect high -
value natural areas as identified through the GMA planning process, the Natural Heritage Plan, the state Priority
Habitats and Species (PHS) program, the Lake Whatcom Management Program, and other sources.