Item 1

A pod of orca was reported at 9 a.m. this morning at Triton Point.  The whales were reportedly swimming south.  Also, a possible pod sighting yesterday (without any seal agitation which would indicate transients) of potential whales following a small boat in Dabob, and Susan Berta at orcanetwork.org just emailed us that a report came in of a possible humpback near Shelton.

If you see orca in Hood Canal or if you have old family photos of orca in Hood Canal, we need to know.  Please call in any sightings of any whales to 1-866- 672-2638, or email to susan@orcanetwork.org.  Photos and other documentation are needed by August 28, 2006.

We continue to work with federal government agencies that are establishing protected habitat for resident killer whales.  If Hood Canal is designated as protected habitat, any plans to industrialize the canal would be severely impaired.

Item 2

Please do not be fooled by the proponents of I-933.  This initiative would retroactively roll back environmental protections and zoning restrictions and directly impact the quality of life for all while benefiting only a few.  It would also cost tax payers many, many millions (billions?) in court costs and legal fees to settle claims by various developers.  It is largely funded by out-of-state developers. While tagged with nice sounding names, it is not nice and not necessary.  It essentially allows property owners to do as they please while offering no protection to their neighbors.  If permits are not provided, tax payers will have to pay.   From our perspective, it might also open the door to the pit to pier project.  Urge your friends to carefully consider I-933 before going to the polls this November.

Item 3

Fred Hill Materials has filed an application to expand mining at Shine pit by another 20 acres.  We do not oppose responsible mining operations to serve local needs.  However, we will probably comment on the application.  The application paper work is available from the Jefferson County Department of Community Development.  Comments may be submitted until August 30, 2006.

Hood Canal Coalition

Thank you for your continued support. 

Stay tuned,

Hood Canal Coalition Steering Committee