Cathlamet pool opens Monday, maybe earlier

Pool staff supervisor Duncan Cruickshank is certain that the Julia Butler Hansen Municipal Pool will open on Monday but suggests there might be a chance that doors will open this Saturday in time for open swim.

The weather is supposed to be hot, so check the Cathlamet Swimming Pool Facebook page for more concrete information on the potential Saturday opening.

New and seasoned lifeguards have been training for the coming summer season using the StarGuard program, implemented last year. The program, which also provides the curriculum for swim lessons, is a little different than the one provided by Red Cross, but Cruickshank likes it.

One thing he likes about it is that swimmers taking lessons have to ask for permission before they get in the water, which gives them a little more respect for their leaders and their environment.

The only change to rates this year comes in the form of a punch pass. Swimmers can still pay the daily rate, purchase a season pass, but now they also have the option to buy a six punch pass.

The schedule will remain the same as last year, with water aerobics at 7:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday; lap swim at 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday; open swim from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 7:30-9:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Lessons will start in a couple weeks.

For more information on lessons, rates and schedule, check out the Town of Cathlamet website, the Cathlamet Swimming Pool Facebook page, or call 360-795-6515.