Some of the events listed here are contingent on whether each jurisdiction is approved to enter the corresponding phase of the governor’s four-phase reopening plan. Check with each venue for the latest information.
Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest: There is a phased reopening of the forest’s campgrounds, restrooms, trailheads and day-use areas to align with Gov. Jay Inslee’s transition plan. Garbage service and water facilities continue to be unavailable. Visitors should plan to be as self-sufficient as possible. This includes bringing their own water, knowing how to properly dispose of human and dog waste, and packing out all garbage. Go to www.fs.usda.gov/mbs for more information.
Beware of bears: Bears have been visiting the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest in high numbers this year. The bears are attracted by the scent of garbage and waste. Help limit bear interactions by properly disposing of waste and packing out trash every time you visit trails or day-use areas. If you need to report a problem bear, contact the Department of Fish and Wildlife or call local law enforcement. Go to www.fs.usda.gov/mbs for tips on what to do if you encounter a bear.
Free firewood: Free firewood cutting has been extended in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest through Dec. 31. No permit will be required during this time. The opportunity was originally scheduled to expire July 17. Forest managers made the decision to extend the provision to continue to assist area residents who rely on wood for heat. Woodcutters can collect up to six cords of firewood for personal use. A cord equates to a wood stack that is 4 feet wide by 4 feet high by 8 feet long. Go to tinyurl.com/cutfirewood for more information.
Find your favorite park: Still playing it safe? Virtually explore Washington’s state parks during the governor’s stay-home order. Washington State Parks Foundation’s website features an interactive map of Washington’s 124 state parks, as well as virtual tours, park information and trip reports. The virtual tours provide a 360-degree view with navigational tools and a walk-through of state parks, trails, campgrounds, retreat centers, interpretive centers and vacation houses. More at www.waparks.org.
Mountain Loop Highway: Expect traffic delays and road closures near the Mountain Loop Highway this summer. Repairs at Red Bridge Campground Road (at milepost 0.1) require the road and campground to be closed through Aug. 28. These dates are tentative and subject to change. Call 360-436-1155 for more information.
Get wild: The Camano Wildlife Habitat Project, sponsored by Friends of Camano Island Parks, hosts presentations the third Wednesday of the month. The next presentation, “Nearshore Habitats” is set for 7 p.m. Aug. 19 via Zoom. Jerilyn Ritzman, Shore Stewards coordinator for WSU Extension Island County, will lead the presentation. She will highlight the nearshore habitats you’re also helping protect when you take good care of your property. Call 360-387-2236 or go to www.camanowildlifehabitat.org.
Free park-ing: The next day to visit Washington state parks in 2020 without an entrance fee is Aug. 25 (National Park Service’s 104th birthday). Other free dates are Sept. 26 (National Public Lands Day), Nov. 11 (Veterans Day) and Nov. 27 (Autumn Day). More at www.discoverpass.wa.gov.
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