FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 29, 2024
*** UPDATE TEMPORARY CLOSURE ***
Windy Cove Crab and Fishing Dock Repairs
(Winchester Bay, Oregon) The Douglas County Parks Department would like to provide an update on the temporary closure of the Windy Cove Crab and Fishing Dock, located at 936 Salmon Harbor Drive in Winchester Bay, Oregon. The Parks Department had to temporarily close the Windy Cove Crab and Fishing Dock on February 1, 2024, due to structural damage that occurred during a high-water event in January. At the time of closure, the Parks Department was hoping that the assessment of damages and repair work to the dock would be a quick process, but unfortunately that is not the case.
As with any repair project involving a public use facility, there are numerous steps that are required before the location can safely reopen to the public. In this case, based on the initial assessment a thorough evaluation of damage both above and below the waterline must be completed before a repair plan can be put together by an engineering firm. The Parks Department has already assessed the damage above the waterline, and currently has a diver scheduled to do the underwater assessment on April 1. As soon as the repair plan is completed, the Parks Department can then apply for an emergency permit from the Army Corps of Engineers to complete the repair work outside the established in-water work period (November 1 through January 31) for the Umpqua River Estuary. Once the repair plan and permit are in hand, a solicitation for contractors to make the needed repairs can begin. Additionally, a log was discovered trapped under the dock but attempts to remove the log have been unsuccessful. The Parks Department hopes to get this log removed next week before it can cause additional damage.
We know that the Windy Cove Crab and Fishing Dock is a popular destination for both locals and visitors. In the meantime, if you are looking for a place to crab in Winchester Bay without a boat, we suggest checking out Dock 9 near the west boat launch in Salmon Harbor. Some fishermen have even reported success catching crab off the banks with a fishing pole crab trap.
This repair project is a priority for the Parks Department, and staff are working diligently to complete the repairs and safely reopen the dock as soon as we can. Unless any unforeseen complications arise, it is our goal to reopen the Dock this summer. Public use of the Windy Cove Crab and Fishing Dock is not permitted during the closure. Public notice will be provided when the dock is reopened and safe to use again. The parking lot, day use area and beach access at the Windy Cove County Park continue to remain open for public use. Safety is always our number one priority for the recreating public, and we ask that citizens respect this closure and stay off the dock until it is safely repaired. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we continue working hard to improve and preserve your recreational opportunities in Douglas County Parks.
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Media Contact: Tamara Howell, Douglas County Emergency Communications & Community Engagement Specialist, Douglas County Public Affairs Office | Office: (541) 957-4896 | Cell: (541) 670-2804 | Email: tamara.howell@douglascountyor.gov