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The Dungeness River flows out of the Olympic Mountains into Dungeness Bay. Located at the north end of the Olympic Peninsula, the area’s natural beauty and quality of life have attracted many newcomers during the last decade. Much of that growth has happened in the lower river valley, in the rural, unincorporated areas of Clallam County. (See Study Area Map)
This growth impacts water quality. Numerous on-site septic systems, some of which are failing or improperly maintained, a proliferation of hobby farms where management practices may be less that optimal, and accumulated waste from many pets, are contributing to increasing fecal coliform bacteria levels in local water bodies. Johnson, Bell, Cassalery, Matriotti, and Bagley Creeks have been placed on the state’s Water Quality Assessment (303[d]) List of impaired waters due to unacceptable levels of fecal coliform. In 2000 Washington Department of Health closed some areas of Dungeness Bay to shellfish harvest, also due to high levels of fecal coliform bacteria. The closure area was expanded in 2001 and again in 2003.
There is a strong local commitment to recovering and protecting water quality in the Dungeness watershed, and a variety of activities are ongoing or planned to deal with the water quality issues.
Public Participation Opportunities
None at this time.
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