Port commission sets special launch for derby

Thursday, August 30, will be a free launch day at the Elochoman Slough Marina, thanks to the generosity of Wahkiakum County Port 1 commissioners.

When organizers for the annual Warriors and Widows Salmon Derby approached the port for one flat launch rate for volunteers, the commissioners agreed to make it a free launch day for all.

"I think there is going to be a big turn out again," Commissioner Brett Deaton said of the event.

"I hope they catch some fish," Commissioner Bob Kizziar added.

In other business, Deaton said that the Elochoman Buoy 1 needed to be relocated.

"There have been a lot of groundings out there," he said. "The shoal has grown on the south end of Hunting Island. The Coast Guard cutter that tends buoys is coming off dry dock and will be in our area in two weeks and it will be a long time before it will be here again. We're trying to get moving on this so we can get them to move it. Otherwise it will be next year."

The sewer pump went out at the marina for the second time in recent memory, according to Assistant Port Manager Todd Souvenir. After some discussion, commissioners agreed to follow up on the matter at a later meeting.

Administrative Assistant Mackenzie Jones said that the Farmers Market would be extended through the end of September. She has been approached by more vendors who hope to have produce ready to sell during the late summer months.

Meanwhile, she's already planning for next year's market.

Kizziar praised port staff for keeping everything orderly during the recent Wooden Boat Show and Cathlamet Art Festival. Commissioner Scott Anderson gave a quick update on the local Broadband Committee.

"It seems to be a very highly motivated group," Anderson said. "It's interesting to see how quickly things can move along."