Washington State Parks announces that work has begun at Sequim Bay State Park to replace the retaining wall and make other improvements at the park’s boat launch facility. The project is expected to be completed at the end of November.

During this time, the boat launch and parking area are closed. Campers can also expect construction traffic and noise in this area of the park.

The timing of the boat ramp closure occurs during the height of the recreational crabbing season, which typically runs from July 1 through Labor Day weekend. This is also the busiest time of the year at the park. However, construction must coincide with the in-water work window, as required by regulating agencies, to ensure construction occurs during a time of year that minimizes harm to salmon and forage fish.

The boat launch work involves:

• Replacing the old creosote-treated timber bulkhead with a new, more habitat-friendly bulkhead.

• Replacing old creosote-treated boat launch pilings and installing new floats.

• Installing stairs for easier and safer beach access. Beach access at the ramp area is used largely by recreational oyster harvesters.

The work is being done by Olympic Peninsula Construction Inc., a firm based in Port Ludlow.

People who make camping reservations for dates during the construction period are being notified of the closure.

Recreationists advised to plan ahead

Washington State Parks advises crabbers and other boaters to plan ahead for possible crowded conditions at other nearby boat launch facilities. Other boat launches available in the area include:

• John Wayne Marina. About a mile north of the park. (https://portofpa.com/186/John-Wayne-Marina)

• Port Williams, operated by Clallam County Parks. Located just outside the entrance to Sequim Bay. (http://www.clallam.net/Parks/portwilliams.html)