clatsop county parks and recreational lands master plan

As representatives of Clatsop County citizens, we are more convinced than ever thatClatsop County’s diverse recreational holdings are among our most valuable assets.What we have discovered gives us a deeper appreciation for the privilege of living hereand stronger commitment to pass this on as a legacy for future generations.-Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan Task ForceThank you to the citizens of Clatsop County who attended public meetings,participated in the survey and symposium and reviewed the draft reports.i

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTSClatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan Task ForceCarolyn Eady, ChairRecreational Lands Advisory CommitteeMarc AuerbachRecreational Lands Advisory CommitteeJohn BensonRecreational Lands Advisory CommitteeMary BlakeSunset Empire Parks and RecreationRichard FencsakBikes and BeyondGail GalenRecreational Lands Advisory CommitteeLynne LelandOregon Equestrian TrailsNeal MaineNorth Coast Land ConservancyTom ParkeWeyerhaeuser Company, RetiredNancy SellsRecreational Lands Advisory CommitteeLarry SprouseOregon Department of ForestryScott StonumNational Park Service, Fort ClatsopDebra Kraske, Assistant County AdministratorPatrick Lines, State Parks AdvisorSteve Meshke, Parks ForemanHelen Westbrook, Board of Commissioners’ LiaisonClatsop County Recreational Lands Planning & Advisory CommitteeMarc Auerbach, ChairJohn BensonCarolyn EadyGail GalenDale McDowellNancy SellsCharles WassingerClatsop County Planning CommissionBruce Francis, ChairMarc AuerbachWilliam “Bill” HarrisJeff MartinBrian PogueDirk RohneCharles SwitzerClatsop County Board of CommissionersRichard Lee, ChairLylia GaebelSamuel PatrickPatricia RobertsHelen WestbrookConsultantIllahee Group, Vancouver WAii

Table of ContentsIntroduction 11. Planning Process 3Statewide Planning Goals 3Clatsop County Comprehensive Plan 4Goal 8 41992 Recreation Master Plan 5Recreational Lands Planning Advisory Committee 6Master Plan Task Force 72. Public Involvement 9Master Plan Task Force Meetings 9Park Opinion Survey 11Public Workshops 12Commissioner Presentation 13Symposium: “Hidden Presence, Undiscovered Treasures” 133. Clatsop County Today & Projected: Demand for Outdoor Recreation 17Present Situation 17Demographics 19Planning Area 20Natural Features 21Benefits of Recreation and Open Space 22Statewide Outdoor Comprehensive Recreation Plan 24Demand for Trails Today and Projected 314. Recreation Providers: Overview of Resources and Supply 37Diverse Recreational Lands 37Public Lands 41Federal Lands 41State of Oregon 41Cities 42Clatsop County 42Public School Districts 43Park and Recreation District 43iii

Private Providers 43Industrial Forest Lands 44Recreation Inventories 445. Park System Goals, Objectives and Action Strategies 53Planning Goals 53Objectives and Action Strategies 53Goals, Objectives and Action Strategies List 546. Definitions and Standards 59Park Classifications 59Shared-use Parks 60Special Use Areas 61Natural Areas 61Gateway and Leased Park Designations 63Classification Matrix 64Zoning 657. County Parks and Recreational Lands 67Parks and Recreational Lands 67Habitat Summary 70Designated County Parks 71County-Owned Recreation Sites 104Other County-Owned Actual or Potential Recreation Sites 113Camping Facilities 115Land and Water Trails Proposals 1168. Park System Financial Analysis 117Park System Management and Financial History 117Current Budget Resources 119Grant Funding Opportunities 123Other Mechanisms and Resources 125Financing Summary and Recommendations 126Parks Management Recommendations 128iv

9. Park System Summary Recommendationsand Capital Projects List 129Introduction 129Summary of Recommendations 130Procedural Recommendations 136Capital Projects List 137AppendixTask Force MeetingsA2005 Clatsop County Parks System Survey and Summary Report BPublic Meetings SummaryCCommunity SymposiumDTop LWCF Priorities: Region 1ESCORP Phone Survey: Disability InformationFSCORP: Role of County Park and Recreation DepartmentsGLocal Area Trail MapsHRecreation Rules and Map: Astoria District - ODFIRecreation Rules and Map: Weyerhaeuser Forest Lands – Clatsop CountyJTillamook and Columbia County Camping FeesKLocations of Proposed LNG Proposals on Columbia RiverLGrant Summaries and WorksheetsMRegional Recreation Council - Proposed CharterNClatsop County Park Rules and RegulationsOArticle: Sigfridson Park Adopted by Class of Star of the Sea SchoolPArticle: Camp Kiwanilong Celebrates 70 th AnniversaryQOther Funding Mechanisms and ResourcesRClatsop County Travel Impacts, 1991-2004SCounty-Owned Water Access SitesTOther County-Owned ParcelsUv

FiguresFigure 1 – Symposium Mapping Exercise 16Figure 2 – Park and Recreational Lands Map 69TablesTable 1 – Participation Rate by Activity 26Table 2 – Top 10 Outdoor Activities – State Residents 26Table 3 – Percentage of Region 1 Participating in Recreation Activities(11 most popular) 27Table 4 – Changes in Recreation Participation in Region 1 (1987-2002) 28Table 5 – Most Significant Participation Growth Activities in Region 1 29Table 6 – Land Managed for Recreation: Examples by Provider 38Table 7 – Other Land in Clatsop County Open to the Public for Recreation 39Table 8 – Supply of Outdoor Recreation Resources and Facilitiesby Major Supplier in Clatsop County 40Table 9 – Oregon Parks and Recreation Department Lands in Clatsop County 45Table 10 – Clatsop State Forest Recreation Facilities 46Table 11 – Public Water Access: Rivers and Streams 47Table 12 – Public Water Access: Boat Ramps 48Table 13 – Designated Area Trails 49Table 14 – Golf Course 49Table 15 – School District Facilities 50Table 16 – Other Tennis Courts 50Table 17 – Camping/RV Facilities 51Table 18 – Goals, Objectives, and Strategies 54Table 19 – Park and Recreational Lands Classification Matrix 64Table 20 – County Zoning Relevant to Parks and Recreation Lands 65Table 21– Parks and Recreational Lands 68Table 22 – Habitat Summary 70Table 23 – Facility Inventory by Site 71Table 24 – Undeveloped County-Owned Water Access Sites 113Table 25 – Current Budget Resources 120Table 26 – Available Grant Programs 123Table 27 – Other Mechanisms and Resources 127Table 28 – Capital and Maintenance Improvement Plan 138vi

References“Creating Connections: The Oregon Recreational Trails How-To-Manual,” a componentof “Oregon Trails 2005-2014: A Statewide Action Plan,” Oregon Parks and RecreationDepartment, May 2004. (www.prd.state.or.us/trailsplanning.php)“Clatsop State Forest Recreation Management,” PowerPoint presentation, RMPTFmeeting, 2005.“From Rails to Trails in Oregon: The Springwater Corridor,” Community DevelopmentDepartment, City of Gresham, February 1993.“Local Greenprinting for Growth Workbooks –Vol 1: OverviewVol. II: How to Define a Conservation VisionVol III: Securing Conservation FundsVol. IV: How to Acquire and Manage Park and Conservation Lands,”Trust for Public Land, 2003“Oregon Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan 2003-2007,” Oregon Parksand Recreation Department, January 2003.“Oregon Trails 2005-2014:Water Trails PlanNon-Motorized Trails PlanMotorized Trails Plan,”Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, February 2005.“Rails-with-Trails: Design, Management and Operating Characteristics of 61 Trails alongActive Rail Lines,” Rails to Trails Conservancy in cooperation with National ParksService, November 2000.“Rails-with-Trails: Lessons Learned, Literature Review Current Practices, Conclusions,”U.S. Department of Transportation, August 2002.“Surface Transportation: Issues Related to Preserving Inactive Rail Lines as Trails,”Report to the Hon. Sam Brownback, U.S. Senate; U.S. General Accounting Office,October 1999. (GAO/RCED-00-4)vii

INTRODUCTIONIt is significant that the Clatsop County Recreational LandsMaster Plan Task Force (the “Task Force”) went about its workduring 2005 and 2006 – 200 years after Lewis & Clark’s Corpsof Discovery reached the mouth of the Columbia River. TheCorps set foot in this area November 26, 1805. They campednear the present-day John Day boat ramp after crossing theColumbia River at Aldrich Point. On December 9, the Corpsstarted construction of Fort Clatsop to make their winterhome. For three and one-half months they explored this area.Captain Lewis wrote more in his journal about what hediscovered here than anywhere else on the journey.The 12 Clatsop County citizens on this task force served as alatter-day Corps of Discovery, taking an inventory of existingparks and recreation sites, examining the many details ofparks management and operation, and exploring ways topreserve some of our most valuable resources. The reportthat they produced is a comprehensive examination of thedemand and supply of outdoor recreation in Clatsop County,including an in-depth examination of the county-ownedresources. It is an update to the 1992 Clatsop CountyRecreational Lands Master Plan and, as such, is part of thecounty’s Comprehensive Plan.“We need to takeseriously the evidencethat open spacecounts in human livesand that places wherewe play can be placesof hope.”Martin J. RosenFounding Memberand Presidentof the Trust forPublic Lands1972-1977The Task Force’s report is organized into nine chapters:1. Planning Process Key milestones in Oregon’s long historyof land-use planning.2. Public Involvement Methods of outreach and resultsobtained through involvement of Clatsop County citizens in theplanning process.3. Clatsop County Today and Projected: Demand forOutdoor Recreation Examination and analysis of currenttrends, conditions and outdoor recreation needs and demand.4. Recreational Providers: Overview of Resources andSupply The broad spectrum of recreational providers, typesof resources and inventories of current supply.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 1

5. Park System Goals, Objectives and Action StrategiesFive identified planning goals with subsequent objectives andaction strategies for parks and recreational lands.6. Definitions and Standards Proposed park classificationsystem to better manage, plan for and promote county parkresources.“Everybody needsbeauty as well asbread, places to play inand pray in, wherenature may heal andgive strength to bodyand soul alike.”John MuirSierra Club Founder7. County Parks & Recreational Lands Benchmark dataobtained in on-site inventories at county-owned parks andrecreation sites.8. Park System Financial Analysis A review of fundingmechanisms currently in use or available, and recommendedways to achieve more stable funding.9. Park System Summary Recommendations andCapital Projects List Recommendations for meetingrecreation needs of residents and visitors in the next tenyears.“In the end, oursociety will bedefined not only bywhat we create, butby what we refuse todestroy.”John SawhillPresident of theNature Conservancy1990-2000Building A LegacyWe must remain aware of our role as land and water stewardsof Clatsop County, with a responsibility to protect andpreserve the quality of life we enjoy here today. Economicgrowth, housing development and jobs should be balancedwith the need to protect our resources. Without a healthyenvironment we threaten our own health, water and foodsupplies, and the overall stability of natural systems thatsustain us.Partnerships, a coordinating council, innovative fundingstrategies and marketing tools recommended in this reportserve as effective means by which to bring about greaterrecognition of our common cultural, ecological andrecreational values. Above all, they reinforce the need topreserve and enhance these resources for future generations.2 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

1 > PLANNING PROCESSThe update to the Clatsop County Parks and RecreationalLands Master Plan builds on Oregon’s long history of land-useplanning and policymaking at the state and local level. Keymilestones are described here.> Statewide Planning GoalsThe State of Oregon has long maintained a strong statewideprogram for land-use planning. The foundation of theprogram is a set of 19 Statewide Planning Goals to which localgovernments are required to conform. In more than threedecades since the goals were first established, there havebeen modifications in process, but the goals themselves haveremained the same.The 19 goals express the state’s consistent policies on landuse and related topics such as citizen involvement, housing,natural resources and recreational needs. Most of the goalsare accompanied by “guidelines” that suggest ways in which agoal may be applied but (as noted in Goal 2) the use of theguidelines is not mandatory.Local comprehensive planning is the means by whichmunicipalities achieve the Statewide Planning Goals. State lawrequires each city and county to adopt a comprehensive plan,along with the zoning and land-division ordinances necessaryto put the plan into effect.Oregon’s Land Conservation and Development Commission(LCDC) reviews local comprehensive plans to ensureconsistency with the Statewide Planning Goals. When LCDCofficially approves a local government’s plan, the plan is saidto be “acknowledged” and becomes the controlling documentfor land use in the area covered by the plan.“There is a shamelessthreat to our environmentand to the whole quality oflife, an unfettereddespoiling of the land.Sagebrush subdivisions,coastal ‘condomania’ andthe ravenous rampage ofsuburbia in the WillametteValley all threaten to mockOregon’s status as theenvironmental model forthe nation …“We are in dire need of astate land-use policy, newsubdivision laws and newstandards for planning andzoning by cities andcounties. The interests ofOregon for today and inthe future must beprotected from graspingwastrels of the land ...”From Gov. Tom McCall’sopening address to the 1973Legislative AssemblyJanuary 8, 1973Later that year, theLegislature adopted SenateBill 100, creating Oregon’sStatewide Planning Goals.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 3

Oregon’s planning laws apply not only to local governmentsbut also to special districts and state agencies. The lawsstrongly emphasize coordination – that is, the need to keepplans and programs consistent with each other, with the goalsthemselves, and with acknowledged local plans.> Clatsop County Comprehensive PlanClatsop County’s Comprehensive Plan is consistent withOregon’s Statewide Planning Goals. First adopted in 1983 andamended over the years, the plan represents literallythousands of hours of work by citizen advisory committees,the Clatsop County Planning Commission and staff of theCommunity Development Department, all supported by theactive involvement of interested residents.Oregon StatewidePlanning Goals1: Citizen Involvement2: Land Use Planning3: Agricultural Lands4: Forest Lands5: Open Spaces, Scenicand Historic Areas,and Natural Resources6. Air, Water and LandResources Quality7. Areas Subject to NaturalDisasters and Hazards8: Recreational Needs9: Economic Development10: Housing11: Public Facilities andServices12: Transportation13: Energy Conservation14: Urbanization15: Willamette RiverGreenway16: Estuarine Resources17: Coastal Shorelands18: Beaches and Dunes19: Ocean ResourcesThe Clatsop County Plan is a statement of public goals,policies, objectives, standards and maps used in makingspecific decisions about present and future land use. As along-range policy guide it represents a public statement of themost desirable land conservation and development uses forthe next ten to 20 years.As a vital, living document, the Clatsop County ComprehensivePlan is flexible enough to change as long as goals and policies,once established, maintain their consistency and the integrityof commitment that underlies them.> Goal 8Oregon Statewide Planning Goal 8 requires local governmentsto inventory recreation needs based on public wants anddesires. They are also required to inventory recreationopportunities that are available, based on adequate researchand analysis. Goal 8 urges long-range plans, policies andaction strategies.4 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Among issues addressed, it focuses attention on the need to:• Meet recreational needs for high-density populationcenters and persons of limited mobility and finances.• Provide maximum conservation of energy and minimizeenvironmental impact and deterioration.• Make services available to the public at nominal cost.• Meet the needs of visitors to the state.Goal 8 works in synergy with other elements of the statewideplan. Goal 1, for example – the Citizen Involvement Goal –requires that the county develop and implement a programthat provides an opportunity for citizen involvement in allphases of the land-use planning process.Oregon Goal 8(www.co.clatsop.or.us)reads as follows:“To satisfy therecreational needs of thecitizens of the state andvisitors and, whereappropriate, to providefor the siting ofnecessary recreationalfacilities and destinationresorts.”Goal 9 – the Economy Goal – requires the county to plan foreconomic development. In Clatsop County, tourism plays akey role. Large shares of the county’s recreational resourcesare provided for or are used extensively by tourists. Planningfor these types of recreational facilities maintains the county’seconomic health both by encouraging tourism and providingopportunities to keep people healthy.> The 1992 Recreation Master PlanClatsop County’s Recreational Lands Master Plan is a subset ofOregon Statewide Planning Goal 8. The original RecreationalLands Master Plan was adopted Dec. 23, 1992, representingthe combination of two planning documents:Goal 8 – RecreationalLands, Clatsop CountyComprehensive Planreads as follows:“Provide opportunitiesfor Clatsop Countyresidents and visitors toenjoy a variety of qualityoutdoor recreationalactivities through thedevelopment andmaintenance of a wellbalancedcounty-widepark system.”(Goal #2, page 3)1. A recreational needs background report thatinventoried existing recreational facilities; examinedgeneral recreational needs; and reviewed land-usecontrols relating to recreational uses.2. A management tool for county-owned lands thatinventoried county-owned sites; provided site-specificrecommendations; and examined the county’s parkmanagement structure.Goals, Policies and ActionPlans on behalf of Goal 8(amended by Ordinance 05-04) were last updated andadopted by the ClatsopCounty Board ofCommissioners in March2005 (www.co.clatsop.or.us).Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 5

During the process of developing the master plan, the ClatsopCounty Recreational Lands Committee affirmed the followingmission statement:“As the rest of the worldsees Oregonians able tomix economic prosperitywith conservation, theywill be encouraged tobalance theircommunities, cities andcounties in a healthiermanner.”Boone JohnsonFrom SOLV’s OregonOwner’s Manual“The mission of Clatsop County RecreationResource Planning is to pursue adequate funding tosupport Park and Recreation staffing with theability to implement the plans formulated in theClatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan andmanagement policies.”While the master plan served successfully as a tool formanaging the county’s recreational resources, even duringtimes of great financial pressure, it is now out-of-date anddoes not address the future of recreational lands in ClatsopCounty. It does not provide the broad vision needed for parkand trail systems, nor an approach for resolving fundingissues.> Recreational Lands Planning AdvisoryCommitteeOn Oct. 27, 2004, the Clatsop County Board of Commissionersordered the preparation of an updated Clatsop CountyRecreational Lands Master Plan. The county’s RecreationalLands Planning Advisory Committee, a group of citizensnamed by the county commissioners to guide the county onrecreational land-use issues, was named to supervise thepreparation of the plan update.6 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Master Plan Task ForceThe committee created a task force consisting of 12 citizenvolunteers. Those who served included community residents,business and civic leaders, educators and recreationprofessionals. In updating the master plan, the Task Force setgoals and priorities, recommended suitable projects for thecounty’s parks and other recreational lands, and formulatedrecommendations.The Task Force met at least once a month (Appendix A –Meeting Schedule). Members completed extensive on-siteinventories of land managed for recreation in Clatsop County,as well as land not currently managed for recreation butavailable for that purpose. The new plan is expected to servethe county’s recreational land-use planning needs for the nextten years.“A child born todaycould conceivablylive to see 2115. Theplanning done todaywill affect that child’ssunset years as wellas the childhood ofthat child’s grandchildren.We’rereally setting thetone, vision, thefuture of the qualityof life forgenerations.”Mary BlakeTask Force memberand general manager,Sunset Empire Parks& RecreationClatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 7

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2 > PUBLIC INVOLVEMENTThe Master Plan Task Force studied conditions, trends andattitudes in the county and solicited public input to establish aframework for the preservation, restoration and enhancementof recreational lands over the next ten years.> Master Plan Task Force MeetingsThe update to the 1992 Recreational Lands Master Plan isprimarily the work of the Master Plan Task Force, which metmonthly beginning in December 2004. The county retainedthe services of Illahee Group, a private consulting firmspecializing in park planning and design, to assist incompleting various component parts of the plan. Input fromcounty and state staff, state and national parksrepresentatives and local citizens was included in the team’sdeliberations.The Task Force undertook a series of comprehensive, on-siteinventories of designated county parks and other land used forrecreation. Members assessed the current condition of eachproperty and evaluated possibilities for future use.Task ForceMission Statement:The mission of ClatsopCounty Parks andRecreation resourceplanning is to improve thequality of life andenvironment in the county bycreating a more healthful,desirable and prosperousurban and rural community.Five goals were identified along with supporting objectives andaction strategies that provide detailed guidelines of parkstandards, physical improvements, operations andmaintenance, and administrative functions. These arereviewed in Chapter 5: Park System Goals, Objectives andAction Strategies.A new park classification system was developed that will serveas a guide for the ongoing management and use of countyparks and other county-owned holdings. It will also providedirection for the development of new facilities. Theclassification system recognizes the diversity and variety ofuses within the park system and is described in Chapter 6:Definitions and Standards.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 9

Trails were recognized as an important part of theRecreational Lands Master Plan because of their innate abilityto connect people to parks, waterfront areas, businesses andneighborhoods. Terry Bergerson, an outdoor planner with theOregon Parks and Recreation Department, made apresentation to the Task Force at the meeting on July 28,2005. The popularity of walking as documented in our localsurvey also spurred development of recommendationsregarding land and water trails as a key element of theRecreational Lands Master Plan.The Oregon State ParksStatewide Trails Plan goesthe extra mile by includingthree components: nonmotorizedtrails, motorizedtrails, and water trails.Oregon is the first state inthe United States to givewater trails equal billing.Read the plan atoregon.gov/OPRD/PLANSSubcommittees were formed to address issues regardingpublic outreach, funding, policy recommendations andplanning for the community symposium held Dec. 7, 2005.The Parks and Recreational Lands Master Plan includesrecommendations for the overall park system, financingstrategies and the aforementioned trails report, along withextensive appendices with source documentation.The full record of the Task Force including meeting minutesand supporting documents is retained in the county’s publicrecords file.10 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Park Opinion SurveyA survey measuring public awareness and attitudes aboutClatsop County Parks and recreation programs was conductedduring August 2005. Surveys were handed out at key venues,mailed and made available online at the Clatsop County Website. The objective was to obtain information that would beuseful in preparing this report (Appendix B – Survey Form andResults).Sixty-five surveys were returned. Nine of these weresubmitted online. Of the remaining surveys, 26 were from arandom mailing to households in Clatsop County.The results of the survey process are contained in Appendix B.Key findings are highlighted here:• When asked about favorite outdoor activities,walking/hiking received the largest percentage response ofany item (83%). Beach activities and biking werementioned by over half of the respondents, and fishingand wildlife viewing/bird watching by nearly half.• Many survey respondents said they had no knowledge ofmany parks included in the survey or the breadth ofrecreation opportunities available. One Seaside residentsaid, “County parks are seriously under-advertised.”Suggestions included better signage, brochures and mapsof park facilities.• The most heavily used county park was Cullaby Lake Park.62% of all respondents visited the park at least once in thelast 12 months. Sigfridson Park was the least-used countypark and also scored lowest in name recognition.“I think county parksare seriously underadvertised.I’ve livedin the county for 20years and regularlyuse state parks …really had NO ideathere were so manycounty parks!”Survey respondentSeasideFavorite outdoor activitiesidentified in local survey(ranked by percent whoparticipate)Walking/hiking 83%Beach activities 55%Biking 54%Wildlife/bird watching 49%Fishing 49%Swimming 39%Natural & open spaces 37%Non-motorized boating 31%Motorized boating 26%Tent camping 26%Playgrounds 25%Golf 19%Educational 19%Hunting 17%RV camping 15%Target shooting 15%ATV 14%Sport fields 14%Basketball 11%Archery 8%Horseback riding 6%Skating 5%Tennis 5%Yurts 3%Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 11

• Survey participants were asked if they had enoughinformation about specific recreation opportunities.Walking/hiking registered the largest response. Just 26%say they currently have enough information aboutwalking/hiking. 51% say they want more.Other comments referenced the need for more trails and ATV(all-terrain vehicle) ride areas, parking and other fees, lack ofrestroom maintenance, crowded campgrounds, andrecreational impacts of LNG (liquefied natural gas) storagefacilities.> Public Workshops“County parks are notwell distributedgeographically.”“Link the trail system inTillamook forest to trailsin Clatsop forests.Include equestrians.”“Develop more sharedusetrails.”“Parks need signs.”“Put in a bike trial fromFort Stevens toSeaside.”“I had no idea there wereso many parks.”-- Comments by workshopparticipantsTwo public meetings were held in Clatsop County in October2005. The objectives of these meetings were to gather publiccomment on preliminary master plan findings and to solicitadditional opinions about parks and recreational lands inClatsop County. Comparisons are made to state data inChapter 3 of this report.The first meeting was held on Oct. 6, 2005, at Astoria’s RedLion Inn. The second meeting was held on Oct. 13, 2005, inSeaside at the Bob Chisholm Community Center. Bothmeetings lasted approximately 90 minutes. Public notices,newspaper articles and radio play were used to publicize theevents.Fifteen participants, five in Astoria and ten in Seaside,attended the workshops. In addition, the meetings werestaffed by Task Force members and attended by members ofthe Clatsop County Board of Commissioners.Community comments were gathered from questionnaireforms, post-it note statements adhered to displays, and textwritten directly on maps. A summary of comments iscontained in Appendix C.12 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

The need for better awareness of county parks was reinforced,just as in the survey. Participants advised promoting a park orother recreational opportunity in each weekend section of TheDaily Astorian. Better signage was requested.Participants made specific requests for:“Everyone needs aplace to enjoy.ATVs, bikes, horsesand hikers.”Workshop participant• A shared-use trail and mountain bike system at CarnahanPark.• A horse camp at Cullaby Lake.• Parking for horse trailers and large trucks at DeLauraBeach.• A bike trail from Fort Stevens to Seaside.• An ATV park and campground on Nicolai Mountain.• More mountain bike trails.• Greater effort to limit dumping, vandalism and damage tothe dunes being done by four-wheel drive vehicles atDeLaura Beach.> Commissioner PresentationThe Recreational Lands Master Plan Task Force reported tothe Clatsop County Board of Commissioners. Chair CarolynEady made a presentation on Sept. 28, 2005, to reviewprogress on inventories, goals and priorities, and stepsnecessary to complete the work of the charter and finish theplan on schedule.> Symposium: “Hidden Presence, UndiscoveredTreasures”Seventy-eight people gathered on the evening of Dec. 7,2005, to acknowledge and celebrate the recreational resourcesof Clatsop County, and to review work to date by theRecreational Lands Master Plan Task Force (Appendix D).The symposium was held at the Rilea Armed Forces TrainingCenter, 200 years to the day after Lewis & Clark’s Corps ofDiscovery arrived at the present-day location of Fort Clatsop.“Our parks offer awealth ofopportunities forhealth, fitness andwellness, socialinteractions,economic gains andenvironmentalstewardship. Wewant to engage ourresidents in makingthis a workingdocument thatpreserves our mostprecious andvaluable resourcesnow and for the next100 years.”Mary BlakeThe Daily AstorianDec. 1, 2005Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 13

It was an event of historic significance as guests took theopportunity to look closely at Clatsop County’s recreationaland natural resources, and at what the community willpreserve and enhance as a legacy for future generations.Those attending included business leaders, elected officials,planners, parks and recreation advocates, history enthusiastsand interested citizens of all ages.“Talk to everybody.When you give peoplea chance to buy intoyour plan, they’llsupport it.”Frank JagodnikExecutive DirectorOregon Parks &Recreation AssociationDec. 7, 2005“Parks mean so muchto someone like me.”Greta Passetti, Seaside,who made a dailyexercise regime out ofwalking trails in ClatsopCounty as she recoveredfrom a debilitatingstroke, speaking at theDec. 7, 2005 symposiumSpeakers included State Representative Debbie Boone; ClatsopCounty Commissioner Helen Westbrook; Chip Jenkins,superintendent of Lewis & Clark National Historical Park; FrankJagodnik, executive director of the Oregon Parks & RecreationAssociation; and Carolyn Eady, chair of the Recreational LandsMaster Plan Task Force.Neal Maine, executive director of the North Coast LandConservancy and member of the Task Force, presented a slideshow featuring his original photographs. Testimonials fromcitizens Greta Passetti, Margo Lalich and Lujac Desautel spoketo the personal benefits of parks and recreation. Mary Blake,general manager of the Sunset Empire Park & RecreationDistrict, served as master of ceremonies.Harking back to 1805, lights in the mess hall were turned offand candles lit to summon guests to dinner. The mealincluded elk stew, salad greens with pine nuts and driedberries, homemade bread and freshly churned butter. Utensilswere basic, appetites hearty.In keeping with the spirit of Lewis and Clark, guests at eachtable were asked to engage in a discussion of the county’s“undiscovered treasures” and provide a summary of theirobservations. Innovative ideas for parks and other recreationfacilities came from people who use them on a regular basis orwho are curious and want to know more.14 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Comments echoed those gathered in our community surveyand centered on four key areas, suggesting the need to:• Raise awareness of parks and facilities.A number of guests said they did not know about somecounty-owned properties. They said there is an immediateneed to install more signage as long as signs are aestheticallypleasing and “respectful” to visitors.• Build parks closer to major population centers.Interest centered on parks and facilities closest toincorporated areas. There was also a desire for trailsconnecting all parts of the county, with parks serving astrailheads.• Involve youth and volunteers.High school students suggested organizing a Youth Corps, andbuilding on the theme of “making memories” that last alifetime through organized events at parks and other playspaces. The students and many others embraced the conceptof taking ownership of their local parks.• Strengthen connections.Guests expressed the need for better connections on manylevels – for example, a single network of trails linking localcommunities to hiking and biking paths, and other attractions.Chip Jenkins said it would take just a few signs to direct usersof the county’s Lewis & Clark boat launch to the Lewis & ClarkNational Historical Park’s Netul Landing canoe and kayaklaunch site just a mile away. From there they could follow ahiking trail to Fort Clatsop.“Kudos to reccommittee”I attended the Rec LandsSymposium at Camp Rileathis week and I’d like to saygood job to all the finepeople who both organizedand presented the program,but also those inattendance …The year-long work putforth by the Rec LandsMaster Plan Committee isproducing big value andbenefit for the entire region.We all owe them a largevote of confidence andappreciation for their finework …As a past member of theRec Lands AdvisoryCommittee, I am very proudof the terrific work beingaccomplished. Youcontinue a fine tradition ofadvancing the interests ofland stewardship andaccess and responsible useof our wonderful lands andrecreational areas. You dous all proud. Quality of lifein our region is beingpreserved by yourcontinued service andunwavering commitment.RICHARD JOHNSONWarrentonFrom a letter toThe Daily AstorianDec. 9, 2005Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 15

Others advised strengthening connections by partnering withschools, timber companies and other entities, and forpurposes of education and outreach across jurisdictions.(Appendix D – Summary Comments.)Figure 1 – Symposium Mapping Exercise16 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

3 > CLATSOP COUNTY TODAY ANDPROJECTED: DEMAND FOR OUTDOORRECREATIONThe active support and wise use of our underutilizedrecreational lands and facilities can play a key role in creatinga community that encourages healthy growth – socially,physically and economically.> Present SituationClatsop County is well-known for its rich history and wealth ofnatural resources. From the beaches of the Pacific Ocean andwaters of the Columbia River to the lushly forested CoastRange, the spectrum of opportunities for outdoor recreation isamong the finest in the state.This is a keen advantage for residents and visitors, and is amajor reason many choose to live here, including a higherthan-averagenumber of retirees and people of middle ageand beyond starting a second career or small business.Traditionally, Clatsop County’s economy was dependent onproducts and activities associated with its renewable naturalresources. Although not as prominent as they once were,seafood, forest products and agriculture continue to beimportant industries.A workforce analysis by the Oregon Employment Departmentfor February 2003 showed approximately 24% percent of thetotal private employment in leisure and hospitality and about12.8% percent in natural resources and mining, wood productmanufacturing and paper manufacturing.Large numbers of tourists visit during the summer months,fueling a significant portion of Clatsop County’s economy.Highways 26 and 30 provide access to Portland and theNew homes swamp coastalcommunities to south …“More than 5,300 units orbuilding lots have beenapproved for development,according to a survey by TheOregonian …“With it come dauntingimplications for coastalcommunities as they staredown the need to expandboundaries and build roads,sewer and water facilitieswhile confronting a growinghousing affordability problemand pondering how an influxof part-time residents mightchange the civic culture.”Sample numbers of residentiallots or building permits approvedin 2005 or planned fordevelopment in the near term:Gearhart 102Seaside 29Cannon Beach 26Manzanita 30Rockaway Beach 147Lincoln City 1,918Depoe Bay 91Florence 249Bandon 494Brookings 1,061From The OregonianOct. 23, 2005Sources: County and cityplanning and buildingdepartmentsClatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 17

“Next great Destination:Astoria”Sunset Magazinein a feature articleJanuary 2006“The fastest growing epidemicin America is obesity. We’regetting fatter as a nation,putting on an average of onepound a year …“We need to apply some of thelessons learned from tobaccocontrol to obesity control andprevention – especially thepower of education andcommunity-basedapproaches.”Susan BlumenthalFormer U.S. Assistant SurgeonGeneralMarch 8, 2004“In the last 20 years, thepercentage of adolescentswho are obese has tripled andthe percentage of overweightchildren between ages 6 and11 has doubled.”Centers for Disease Controland PreventionAdult obesityrankings at a glance:1. Mississippi2. Alabama29. Washington31. California36. Oregon37. Idaho50. ColoradoWillamette Valley, while Highway 101 connects the county tothe rest of the Oregon coast and southwest Washington.While Cannon Beach and Seaside have long been vacationdestinations, Astoria has achieved “destination” status. Anincreasing number of cruise ships stop in Astoria to enjoy itshistory, retail services and cultural attractions. The Lewis &Clark Bicentennial and creation of the Lewis & Clark NationalHistorical Park are expected to significantly increase tourismlong-term.The area’s recreational opportunities are likely to continue toattract a growing number of visitors. Balancing growth withlivability issues is a challenge for many coastal communities.For example, Cannon Beach is considering whether to expandits urban growth boundary after years of limiting growth.Clatsop County’s recreational assets are as important to thephysical health of its residents as they are to a healthy,growing economy. Much has been made in the media, anddeservedly so, of health issues related to sedentary lifestyles.It is especially disturbing to note that the most rapid rise inobesity nationally is occurring among children andadolescents. Not only does this threaten the lifelong health ofindividuals, many of its costs fall on taxpayers and theinsurance-buying public.To Oregon’s credit, it is the only state not to see gains from2002-04 in the number of obese residents, holding steady at21% in a new study out in 2005 from the Centers for DiseasePrevention and Control. Interest in walking/hiking, bicycling,swimming and other activities, shown in our local survey,plays an important role in keeping our community healthy.With our higher-than-average population of aging babyboomers and retirees, lifelong fitness should be encouraged.Although the state as a whole did not show a rise in obesity,there is room for improvement. Oregon’s obesity ranking fallsjust below the median compared to the rest of the nation. We18 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

can and must do better, and our recreational resources areone of the best means by which to do it.> DemographicsClatsop County is home to an estimated 36,340 residents,according to figures released in 2004 by the U.S. CensusBureau. This represents an approximate 2% increase sincethe last U.S. Census in 2000.The county’s major population centers are along or near thecoast. About one-third of the population resides inunincorporated areas. Growth rates have been greatest in thevacation destination, Cannon Beach, and the city ofWarrenton, which has a large land area and annexedHammond in 1991. Astoria had slight negative annual growthin the 1990s but that trend has reversed.Clatsop County has a lower percentage of youth under 18 thanthe rest of Oregon, but more residents over 45. The numberof persons 65 years and older moving to Clatsop Countybetween 1990 and 2000 was nearly 3% greater than the stateaverage.Net personal income in Clatsop County gets a higher-thanaverageboost from transfer payments by government andbusinesses. Examples are social security, veterans benefitsand pension plans. During the 1969-2003 period, earnedincome in Clatsop County grew by 94.2%. Property incomeincreased by 191.8%, while transfer payments rose 301.4%.The share of Clatsop County's personal income from transferpayments is above both the national average and Oregon’saverage (see sidebar).The population remains less diverse than the state as a whole,although minorities have increased since 1990. About 93% ofthe county’s population identified themselves as white inCensus 2000, compared with the statewide average of 86.6%.(As a caveat, note that racial data from the census is self-Population ofClatsop County’s fiveincorporated cities inCensus 2000:Astoria 9,813Seaside 5,900Warrenton 4,096Cannon Beach 1,588Gearhart 995Annual Growth - Cities’90-’00Astoria -0.3%Seaside 1.0%Warrenton 4.3%Cannon Bch. 2.7%Gearhart -0.3%’00-‘03Astoria 0.3%Seaside 0.8%Warrenton 1.6%Cannon Bch. 1.1%Gearhart 1.5%Source: Portland StateUniversity PopulationResearch CenterTransfer Payments asPercent of Total PersonalIncome in 2003:United States-14.6%Oregon-15.6%Clatsop County-19.0%Source: U.S. Departmentof Commerce, Bureau ofEconomic AnalysisClatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 19

eported. Respondents decide with which racial and ethnicgroup they want to be identified.)Since 1970, the county has gained over 7,800 residents.However, growth between 1990 and 2000 was 13.4% lessthan the state of Oregon as a whole according to Census2000.Finally, it should be noted that population figures representpermanent residents. The population swells to in excess of80,000 on summer weekends with vacationers drawn by thescenery, mild weather, small-town atmosphere and wealth ofrecreational opportunities. The number of visitors can bemany times more than that on special-event weekends suchas the August Hood to Coast Relay, the largest relay event inNorth America, which ends in Seaside.> Planning AreaLand ownership inClatsop CountyPrivate 88.1%State 9.8%Federal 1.3%County 0.8%According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Clatsop County has atotal area of 1,085 square miles – 827 square miles of landand 258 square miles of water. The latter represents 23.74%of the county’s total area. This includes a large area withinthe Columbia River.Land ownership within Clatsop County is primarily private.More than 80% of the land is forested, and much of this isprivately owned industrial forest land. At present, the majorprivate timber landowners are Weyerhaeuser Company,Longview Fibre and Hampton Affiliates.20 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Natural FeaturesClatsop County’s location in the northwest corner of Oregonoffers a spectacular mix of physical features. The terrain ismostly mountainous timberland, bounded on the west by thePacific Ocean and on the north by the lower Columbia River.Douglas-fir, Sitka spruce, hemlock and red alder are theprimary tree species in the forests. The silt loam bottomlandsof the Columbia and its tributary rivers, the adjoining hills andcoastal plain with its dunes and bog lands are home to most ofthe population and offer rich agricultural lands. Whileharvesting on small woodlots makes up 40% of agriculturalsales, dairy and beef are also major-revenue agriculturalresources.Coastal weather patterns supply ample rainfall for agriculturalproduction and forest vegetation, and for feeding numerouscoastal foothill streams. Clatsop County has a temperate,marine climate, with rainy winters and moderate summers.Precipitation occurs mainly from October through April.“Each of us needsto withdraw fromthe cares whichwill not withdrawfrom us. We needhours of aimlesswandering orspates of timesitting on parkbenches,observing themysterious worksof ants and thecanopy oftreetops.”Maya AngelouClatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 21

Benefits of Recreation and Open SpaceNational Recreation andPark Association: “Thebenefits are endless.”More than a popularslogan, this has becomethe rallying cry throughoutthe U.S. and Canada forthe transformation inthinking about parks andrecreation that has takenplace since the early 90s.The benefits “movement”was born largely out ofcompetition for scarcepublic funds – a stress thathas increased over theyears. It became obviousto the National Recreationand Park Association(NRPA) that there was aneed professionally tomove beyond “fun andgames” and make it clearthat parks and recreationplay a vital role in thehealth and well-being ofindividuals, families,neighborhoods,communities and theenvironment.“Active recreationtravelers average $442per party per trip,passive travelers spend$342 and other travelersspend $245 per party pertrip; as a whole travelersspend close to $123 perday.”Travel Industry Associationof America (TIAA), GeneralTourism Trends in Oregon,2000.Recreational lands and open space offer a wealth of benefitsthat can be enjoyed by people of all ages and from all walks oflife.Health and Wellness. Recreational lands provide excellentopportunities for walkers, joggers, bicyclists and equestrians;many are accessible to people with disabilities. Almosteverybody can enjoy the healthful benefits of fresh air,exercise, reduced stress and potential weight loss.Safe, Clean Transportation. Trails are an essentialcomponent of recreation, providing safe, scenic routes to andfrom work, school, shops, parks and other communityfacilities. Trails in and around urban areas have the potentialto reduce dependence on cars and relieve congestion onhighways and streets.Plant and Animal Habitat. Recreational lands and openspace host native plants and animals, including someendangered species. Mushroom picking, hunting, clammingand birdwatching are popular activities among residents andvisitors, requiring habitat to be protected and preserved.Travel corridors for breeding and foraging are needed to keepflora and fauna populations healthy.Economic Development. Recreational lands are attractiveto companies seeking to do business in Clatsop County.Employers today recognize the economic benefits thatrecreational activity provides, such as greater productivity andpotentially lower health care costs. For homeowners, thepresence of nearby parks, trails and open space increasesproperty values.22 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Tourism. Recreational opportunities encourage tourism andgive visitors reason to stay in our area longer, bringing moredollars into the local economy. Unspoiled beaches, naturalforests, hiking trails, camping facilities and waters for fishingand boating are a magnet to visitors. See Appendix S for anestimate of the economic impact of visitors to the countyaccording to the Oregon Tourism Commission.Water Quality and Flood Control. Recreational landsmanaged as natural areas can function as a buffer forwetlands and rivers, leading to improved water quality. Theyalso act as a sponge, absorbing and reducing storm waterrunoff to minimize flooding. This reduces the need for costlyflood control measures.Cultural and Historic Preservation. Cultural resourceslocated on recreational lands – such as historic buildings (theLindgren cabin) and heritage trees (the largest Sitka spruce) –provide the community with a sense of place and culturalcontinuity. People become more aware of their roots and takepride in their heritage when they can visit archaeologically andhistorically significant sites.“Nature-based tourism(travel and recreation forthe appreciation ofnature and the outdoors)is…growing at 30%annually and involvingnon-consumptiveactivities such as birdand other wildlifewatching, hiking andbackpacking, naturestudy and photography,boating, biking, campingand picnicking, andallied activities”Travel Industry Associationof America (TIAA), GeneralTourism Trends in Oregon,2000.“The four (Oregon)counties where travelgeneratedearningscomprise more than tenpercent of the totalearnings are Clatsop,Curry, Lincoln, andTillamook”Oregon Travel Impacts,1991-2005p, OregonTourism CommissionOregon Travel Spendingfor Clatsop County byyear:2000: $3062001: $3202002 : $3262003 : $3242004 : $338($Millions)Oregon Travel Impacts,1991-2005p, OregonTourism CommissionClatsop County TravelImpacts 1991-2004, seeAppendix SClatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 23

Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor RecreationPlanIn 2002, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Departmentcompleted a Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor RecreationPlan (SCORP) 2003-2007 for Oregon. The outdoor recreationhabits of 4,400 Oregonians and 800 residents from California,Washington and Idaho were surveyed in this study.The plan constitutes Oregon´s basic five-year strategy foroutdoor recreation. It provides the state with an up-to-dateregional information and planning tool serving as the basis bywhich all Oregon recreation providers (state, federal, local andprivate) are able to:• Catalogue and rank their recreation needs.• Obtain funding through partnerships and grants.• Clarify their respective roles.The guidance provided by the SCORP report influenced theprocess followed by the Task Force and the presentation of itsfindings.The completion of the SCORP report allowed the state tomaintain its eligibility to participate in the federal Land andWater Conservation Fund (LWCF). (The state has receivedapproximately $235 million from the fund during the last 40years.)To allocate LWCF monies in an objective manner, a set ofOpen Project Selection Process criteria were developed duringthe 2003-2007 Oregon SCORP planning process (See 2003-2006 Oregon SCORP, Appendix J). The Oregon Parks &Recreation Department uses these criteria to evaluatestatewide LWCF grant proposals.24 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Regional recreational trends and issues reported byrecreational providers in SCORP have implications for ClatsopCounty. For example:• Recreational providers consistently report that therecreational infrastructure in Oregon is aging and needsrehabilitation. Recommendation was made to focusrehabilitation priorities on sites and facilities that satisfycurrent recreational need and ensure long-termperformance.• The public is asking land managers to place moreemphasis on preserving existing vegetative communitiesand wildlife habitat systems. People want quiet, naturalplaces where they can go to recreate and renew.• Information and education are in greater demand.• People are taking shorter trips closer to home due to lessdisposable leisure time. The increase in gas prices sinceSCORP was adopted has also reinforced the desire to limittravel by visiting nearby destinations.• There is an increased emphasis on regional recreationplanning. Rural communities are becoming moreinterested in collaborating with managers and recreationproviders with the aim of diversifying their economies,while maintaining their quality-of-life values.• Recreation providers report a significant increase in waterbasedrecreation activities. The latest non-motorizedboating numbers for Oregon state show a 138% increasefrom 1987 to 2002.• Recreational trails are important to Oregonians. Thegrowing number of diverse land and water trail usersrequires planning to provide additional trail facilitiesincluding inter-connected opportunities where appropriate.Nationally, there aresignificant recreationaltrends that are a matchfor Oregon.For example:• Camping is thenumber one outdoorvacation in America.• Biking vacationsrank as the thirdmost popularoutdoor vacationactivity, followingcamping and hiking.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 25

SCORP examined and presented the recreation utilization datacollected in a variety of ways:Recreation Activity: StatewideTable 1 below shows the percent of Oregon’s population thatparticipates in various recreational activities. Nearly three outof four Oregon households surveyed participate in some typeof outdoor activity:Table 1 – Participation Rate by ActivityTable 2 below lists the ten most popular recreational activitiesof Oregon residents.Table 2 – Top 10 Outdoor Activities – State Residents26 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Recreational Activity: Residents Within the RegionIn its study of recreation trends, SCORP divided the state into11 planning regions. Region 1 consists of Clatsop, Tillamookand Lincoln counties, and approximately 1/5 of Lane County(the coastal portion). While it includes an area larger thanClatsop County, the Region 1 findings provide insight intotypes of recreation taking place in the north coastal region.SCORP Region 1:Clatsop, Tillamookand Lincolncounties, andapproximately 1/5 ofLane County (thecoastal portion).Table 3 below shows the percentage of Region 1 residentswho participate in the 11 most popular recreational activities.Both these data and the data collected by the Task Force in itssurvey (see sidebar, page 11) show the popularity ofwalking/hiking, beach activities, nature/wildlife observationand fishing among area residents.Table 3 – Percentage of Region 1 Participating inRecreational Activities (11 most popular)Sightseeing/driving for pleasure 44%Walking for pleasure 41%Beach activities 36%Visiting cultural/historic sites 31%Running/walking for exercise 30%Nature/wildlife observation 29%Collecting (rocks, plants, mushrooms, etc.) 28%Picnicking 24%Fishing from a boat 24%Bird watching 22%Fishing from shore 21%Data extracted from SCORP Table 3.5Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 27

Recreational Activity Trends: Estimated Demand byDestination RegionSCORP estimated the demand for 30 recreational activities in2002 compared to demand in 1987. These data are expressedas user occasions for the destination regions, in contrast tothe home regions of the respondents reported above. Table 4gives these data for Region 1:Table 4 – Changes in Recreation Participation inRegion 1 (1987-2002)*Fewer than 10 observationsSCORP Table 4.628 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

The Task Force had concerns about a few of the levels ofchange reported in this table, specifically “Fishing from a Boat”(0.8% increase) and “Non-motorized Boating” (45.7%decrease). After consultation with OPRD staff, the Task Forcedecided that the statewide figures for these activities (44.3%increase and 137.9% increase) were more representative ofthese activities in Clatsop County.In addition, no mention was made of surfing, which is apopular activity but was not represented in the survey.SCORP combined the demand estimates with an outdoorsupply capacity for each region to develop facility needs.Based on this analysis, SCORP states that the most significantgrowth in recreation in our region (1987-2002) has been asfollows:Table 5 – Most Significant Participation GrowthActivities in Region 1SCORP Table 4.7Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 29

ROLE OF THECOUNTY…CURRENT ROLE:Counties acquire and developparks serving citizens of anarea larger than a singlemunicipality but less thanstatewide. Counties provide asubstantial amount of thepublic sector boating access,and RV and camping relatedfacilities around the state.…Most county programswould fall in the mid-range ofthe recreation opportunityspectrum providing developedand semi- developed outdoorrecreation opportunities forpeople in the urban/ruralinterface. Counties provide asignificant amount of thefacilities for access to naturalresource orientated activitiessuch as camping, hiking,fishing, picnicking, motorizedand non-motorized boating,water-skiing, swimming, ATVriding, bicycling, nature studyand interpretation.HOW ROLE MAY CHANGEIN THE NEXT 5 YEARS:…more urban areas there willbe pressure from communityand environmental groups toacquire more open space,especially along the urbanfringe. This fringe area, moreoften than not, falls under thejurisdiction of the counties.…The county's role ofproviding solely traditionalforms of parks will need toevolve. Some counties arealready evolving to meet thisnew role. Benton, Lane andMarion Counties are currentlymaking an effort in thisdirection.(Source: SCORP. SeeAppendix G)Based on the Demand and Need Analysis, Region 1 is said tohave current peak use exceeding supply in golf, hiking trailsand fishing from a dock or pier (SCORP, p. J-9). This demandexceeding supply is projected to continue for the sameactivities in 2007.LWCF PrioritiesStatewide SCORP issues were identified (SCORP p. J-5):• Major rehabilitation of existing outdoor facilities• Recreational trails/trail connectivity• Land acquisition• Ball fields• Water-based recreational resources and facilitiesSCORP has set the top three Region 1 priorities for LWCFfunds (Appendix E – Funding Priorities):• Funding for additional camping facilities• Funding for new and rehabilitated river access facilities• Funding for additional recreation trails (non-motorized)Projects that address these regional and statewide issues willbe given additional priority points in LWCF funding requests.[Note: Later in the report, it will be shown that the TaskForce recommendations address all three of the regionalissues and all but one of the state issues (i.e., ball fields).]Other SCORP GuidelinesDisability information598 of the 3,741 households surveyed by phone had ahousehold member with a disability. SCORP provides valuableinformation regarding the type of disability and the type ofaccommodation that would be helpful. These results andrespondents’ suggestions are listed in Appendix F.30 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Role of County Park and Recreation DepartmentsSCORP carefully delineates the roles of the various publicproviders of recreation. It describes its current role and howthe role may change by 2007 due to a variety of pressures.The county role is described in Appendix G.> Demand for Trails Today and ProjectedTrails are an important component of any recreational plan. They arethe physical manifestation of the “connectivity” we envision for ourparks and adjacent areas. The demand for trails in Clatsop Countyand the state is intense and worthy of special attention. One needonly look at the miles of user-created trails, often crossing ownershipboundaries, to recognize that the public is serious about blazing newtrails and taking ownership of its trails. (See sidebar on pages 32-33for recent trail developments and Appendix H for local area trailmaps.)In its publication (Creating Connections: The OregonRecreational Trails How-To Manual, May 2004), the OregonParks and Recreation Department (OPRD) reviews some of themany benefits of trails and greenways (see sidebar).The state’s “How-To Manual” divides its discussion between landtrails, both motorized and non-motorized, and water trails. Demandand utilization data for each category of trail are addressed belowalong with critical state and regional trail issues.Non-Motorized Land TrailsAccording to the recent county Task Force survey, over 40% ofrespondents listed hiking/walking as their favorite form of recreation.This corresponds well with 2002 SCORP results that showed“running/walking for exercise” and “walking for pleasure” rankednumber one and two in the statewide user days survey, far ahead oftheir nearest competitor, “birdwatching” (SCORP Table 3-3, pp. 3-7through 3-9).Benefits of Trails andGreenwaysRECREATIONAL VALUE ANDHEALTH BENEFITSThere is a significant healthand fitness benefit as mostrecreational activities on trailsinvolve exercise. This healthbenefit accrues to the individualand, in the form of reducedhealth-care costs, to society aswell.TRANSPORTATIONENHANCEMENT ANDSAFETY BENEFITSTrails encourage pedestrianand bicycle commuting, thusreducing traffic and congestionon roads, and reducing fuelconsumption and its associatedpollution. Designated trailsstrive to define a designatedspace for human-poweredcommuters.ECONOMIC BENEFITSTrails attract tourists that bringa direct economic benefit tolocal businesses.EDUCATIONAL BENEFITSTrail corridors can becomeoutdoor classrooms wherechildren can observe and learnabout their natural and culturalenvironment.ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITSBy preserving critical openspace that provides naturalbuffer zones that protectstreams, rivers and lakes, trailsand greenways can play animportant role in improvingwater quality.PRESERVING OUR HISTORYAND CULTURETrails have the power toconnect us to our heritage bypreserving historic places andproviding access to them.They can give people a senseof place and draw people tohistoric and cultural sites.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 31

Blazing New TrailsTo meet user demand, therehas been a significantincrease in trail creation inClatsop County. Table 13lists the county’s majorrecognized trails.Noteworthy traildevelopments over the pastfew years include thefollowing:Warrenton TrailsAssociation.This non-profit organizationhas been working on a 25-mile loop trail connectingimportant historical andcultural sites in theWarrenton area (Appendix H– Map). Most of theproposed route is accessible,but not well signed oradvertised.Astoria Urban Trail Project.The city recently received agrant to map all of the trailswithin the Astoria area andhas identified many miles ofshared-use trails that crossmultiple ownerships,including the county andODF. The Astoria ParksDepartment has gained staterecognition for the 1.5-mileCathedral Tree Trail, the0.25-mile Column Trail, the1.5-mile James Street Trail,the 0.5-mile Middle SchoolTrail and the 1-mile ShivelyPark Trail.Continued …Also according to the state survey, day hiking in our region hasexperienced an 80.6% increase in user occasions between 1987 and2002. Horseback riding has increased 39.3% in our region;approximately 6.2% of the population participates in this recreationalactivity.As cited on page 31, SCORP 2003-2007 gives one of its top threeRegion 1 funding priorities to additional non-motorized recreationtrails. SCORP (p. 5-4) cites the need for:• Additional recreation trails near populated areas. This includesacquisition of land or easements for trails and trailconnections.• Off-road bicycle trails in the Coast Range and along the coast,and opportunities for equestrian use.• Longer trails for multiple-night backpacking trips.In addition, OPRD has also identified the following top statewide nonmotorizedtrail issues:A. Need for trail connectivity within the region providingaccess from urban to rural trails, connections betweenpublic facilities, parks and open space and connectionsfrom state and regional trails to community trails.B. Need for additional non-motorized trails (for all usertypes) – especially in close proximity to where people live.C. Need for additional funding for non-motorized trailacquisition and development. Potential strategies includeallocating a certain portion of state lottery funds;acquisitions of fee title, easements and land exchanges;and ways to allow users to pay for trail facilities andservices.(Oregon Trails 2005-2014: Non-Motorized Trails, OPRD,February 2005)It is important to recognize that OPRD staff use compliance with theabove issues and priorities when evaluating grant applications.32 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Motorized Land TrailsThe recent Task Force survey elicited one response regardingmotorized trail activity. According to SCORP 2002 survey data,Region 1 had a slight (3.7%) increase in four-wheel driving since1988, and a 22% increase in ATV (all-terrain vehicle) riding. Whenuser occasions for these two activities are combined, they almostequal user occasions for day hiking. One can conclude that thisrecreational activity was under-represented in our local survey;however, it should be noted that our region includes TillamookCounty, which has a very large off-road driving constituency on ODFtrails.In OPRD’s Oregon Trails 2005-2014: Motorized Trails Plan, threemajor statewide issues are identified:A. Need for new trails/managed riding areas, including:• Additional public and privately owned OHV (offhighwayvehicle) recreational areas.• Greater emphasis on developing OHV ridingopportunities on private and local government land.• Additional OHV opportunities in reasonably closeproximity to communities and urban areas• Increased diversity of OHV opportunities.B. Need for regional interagency coordination/cooperation intrail planning and management, including:• Development of a regional approach to motorized trailplanning.• Standardized statewide OHV management practices.C. Need for user education/training (regulatory and safetyinformation) as a means of reducing the number ofpersonal injury accidents involving recreational OHV use.[Note: These goals and objectives are developed in greater detail onpages 47-54 in the above-mentioned publication.]Blazing New Trails,ContinuedAstoria Riverwalk/River Trail.This 3.5-mile shared-use trailnext to the rails on the Astoriawaterfront has provenextremely popular with visitorsand residents alike.Oregon Department ofForestry, Astoria District.ODF is also actively engaged inidentifying the many usercreatedtrials that have beencreated in the Astoria basin,and deciding which should bedesignated as “authorized.”They have also created a horsecamp and riding trail in theeastern part of the county.Lewis and Clark National andState Historical Parks.Several new trails have beencreated including the 6.5-mileFort to Sea Trail, the 2.5-mileClatsop Loop Trail at EcolaState Park, and the 1.5-mileNetul River Trail along theLewis and Clark River at FortClatsop.The Gateway to Discovery. Atrail through a 10-acre coastalforest in Seaside, along with anatural history center,showcases the region’s natural,cultural and historic resources.County Parks Department.The 1.5-mile Cullaby LakeInterpretive Trail along acoastal wetlands was dedicatedin July 2005. An equestriangroup has unofficially adoptedthe DeLaura Beach site.Several miles of trails havebeen created that are sharedwith bicyclists and hikers.[Note: Other improvements intrails on county park andrecreational lands will bediscussed later in this report.]Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 33

Water TrailsBenefits of Water TrailsA water trail can help peoplebecome acquainted with theirriver heritage.People along the river candiscover a whole newperspective of both theircommunity and the aquaticenvironment.A water trail system withidentified launch and landingsites, resting places, mapsand safety information canhelp people traveling on theriver find the best places topaddle based on theirexperience and availabletime.An identified trail can helpprotect natural and culturalresources from degradationby dispersing use and limitingaccess to sensitive areas.Trail information can provideguidelines for low-impact use.Trail maps and guidebookscan direct paddlers to localcommunities for campingfacilities, grocery stores,B&Bs and other amenities,helping enhance localeconomies.A sense of stewardship canbe nurtured through publiceducation and coordinatedvolunteer activities such ascleanups and water qualitymonitoring.An officially recognized watertrail can be eligible forregional and nationalresources and funding.Source: Lower ColumbiaWater Trail brochure, LowerColumbia River EstuaryPartnership (Appendix H)The publication, Oregon Trails 2005-2014: Water Trails Plan (OPRD,February 2005), provides this description of water trails:Water trails (like other recreational trails) are corridorsbetween specific locations on a lake, river or ocean. Watertrails are primarily designed for small watercraft such ascanoes, sea and whitewater kayaks, rafts and drift boats.Necessary water trail facilities include a safe place for thepublic to put in, parking, restrooms, a safe place to take out,and in some cases day-use sites and overnight campsites.Water trails …. emphasize low-impact use and encouragestewardship of the resource.This same report noted the growing interest in water trails throughoutthe state. According to SCORP, power boating has remained at arelatively static level between 1987 and 2002, whereas, nonmotorizedboating activities have increased 138% during the sameperiod.The previous Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan listed 19public and quasi-public boat ramps on the Columbia, Necanicum,Nehalem and other sites (p. 22). The tables on pages 47 and 48identify boat ramps and water access points in the county.The SCORP report also established the following Region 1 fundingpriority:Funding priority for new river access facilities and rehabilitation ofexisting river access facilities• There is a lack of developed river access facilities forangling, swimming, kayaking and canoeing. In addition,there is a need for rehabilitation of existing river accessfacilities. (SCORP, 5-4)34 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Oregon Trails 2005-2014: Water Trails Plan lists the followingstatewide water trail issues:A. Need to address conflicts between non-motorized boatersand waterfront property owners.B. Need for public access to waterways.C. Need for adequate and consistent information resourcesincluding signs, maps, level of difficulty and water levelinformation, and available paddling information.D. Need for safety-related information, user education andoutreach.E. Need for a dedicated funding source for water traildevelopment.F. Need for information describing the social and economicbenefits of water trails (pp. 10-11).Oregon Trails 2005-2014Water Trails Plan (p. 37)lists the top water trailissues in our region:1Need for more publicaccess to waterways.2Need for a designatedfunding source for nonmotorizedwatercraftfacility development.3Need to clearly addressthe navigability issueand clearly define tousers where they canand cannot exit theirwatercraft.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 35

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4 > RECREATIONAL PROVIDERS:OVERVIEW OF RESOURCES ANDSUPPLYLands managed or available for recreation comprise nearly80% of Clatsop County’s total land base, representing a broadspectrum of recreational providers and wide range of uses.> Diverse Recreational LandsThe ownership and management of recreational resources inClatsop County involve a large number of public and privateparties, including governmental agencies, businesses, nonprofitgroups and individuals. The range of providers of landmanaged for recreation in Clatsop County is shown in Table 6.Examples demonstrate the diversity of recreational facilities,such as picnic areas, trails, campgrounds, boat ramps andfishing sites, golf courses and natural areas.This is, however, only part of the recreational picture in thecounty. In addition, there are hundreds of thousands ofadditional acres open to the public for recreation as shown inTable 7. These include wildlife refuges, county sites notofficially recognized as parks, multi-resource state timberlandand privately owned commercial timberland. In total, otherland open to the public for recreation constitutes 421,672acres of the total 539,520 within the county, which representsnearly 80% of the county’s land base.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 37

Table 6 – Land Managed for Recreation:Examples by ProviderPROVIDERTYPE OF RECREATION EXAMPLESRESOURCEThe Public Public Lands Sunset Lake ParkFederalU.S. Department of theInterior National ParkNational Historical Park Lewis & Clark NationalHistorical ParkServiceState of OregonOregon Parks andRecreation Department*Ocean Beach AccessHighway WaysideDel Rey BeachBradley ViewpointDay-use ParkEcolaDestination Campground Ft. Stevens ParkHistoric SiteFt. Stevens ReserveFishing/Boat AccessOregon Department ofForestry**CitiesCountySchool DistrictsParks DistrictsPrivateDestination CampgroundPrimitive CampgroundEquestrian CampTrailActive Sports FieldsSwimming PoolsOutdoor CourtsDay-use PicnicBoat Ramp/Marine ParkMulti-use Recreation AreaPassive Natural SiteFishing/Boating AccessDay-use PicnicActive Sports FieldsGymnasiumsPlaygroundsPublic Swimming PoolsOrganized Rec ProgramsGolf CoursesRV CampgroundsSpruce RunGnat CreekNorthrup CreekBloom LakeWarrenton – SoftballAstoria – Aquatic CenterCannon Beach – TennisHammond – BasinSeaside Quatat ParkAstoria - TapiolaNehalem ParkJohn Day Boat RampCullaby Lake ParkWarren Field-AstoriaKnappa High SchoolAstoria Middle SchoolSunset Pool-SeasideMisc ActivitiesGearhart Golf CourseCircle Creek Campground*See Table 9 for complete listing of recreational sites in Clatsop County**See Table 10 for complete listing of recreational sites in Clatsop CountyNote: In January 2006, the Port of Astoria announced plans for a seven acre public park on the west side ofPier 3.38 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Table 7 – Other Land in Clatsop CountyOpen to the Public for RecreationAVAILABLE LAND / OWNERFederal LandNO. OF ACRESU.S. Department of Fish and WildlifeLewis & Clark National Wildlife RefugeJulia Butler Hansen National Wildlife RefugeHaystack Rock, Oregon Islands National Wildlife RefugeState Land*34,0006,873NAOregon Department of ForestryAstoria District**Forest Grove DistrictTillamook District134,3518,5922,562Oregon Department of Fish and WildlifeJewell Meadows Wildlife AreaBig Creek (north of Hwy 30)Nehalem River (one mile north of Spruce Run Park)*These holdings are described on pages 46-48.**See Appendix I for map and recreation rules.County Lands***DeLaura BeachKnappa DockClaremont ParcelTwilight Eagle SanctuaryWilliamsport Properties***These holdings are described in Chapter 7.Private Land9621435370

The SCORP 2003-2007 Report gives a general review of outdoorrecreation resources and facilities by major suppliers. Data fromRegion 1 were used to extract provider data for Clatsop County, asshown below:Table 8 – Supply of Outdoor Recreation Resources andFacilities By Major Suppliers in ClatsopCounty - 2001Data extracted from SCORP Table G.140 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Providers other than the county are described briefly belowand specific inventory information is presented in a series oftables on pages 45-51. County parks and recreational landsare discussed in Chapter 7.> Public LandsCertain properties or resources are considered to be owned by“the public.” Examples are the waters of the Columbia Riverand the Pacific Ocean or a dedicated public park area within aresidential area. The public is deemed to have the right tofreely access such properties.> Federal LandsUnlike the state as a whole, there is virtually no federaltimberland in Clatsop County. Federal holdings include thefollowing national park and wildlife refuge lands:• The National Park Service operates Lewis & ClarkNational Historical Park. This is America’s newestnational park (as of 2005) and incorporates units inboth Oregon and Washington including Fort Clatsop,the Corps of Discovery’s winter quarters in 1805-06.• The U.S. Department of Fish and Wildlife ownsand manages the 38,000-acre Lewis & Clark NationalWildlife Refuge and 6,873 acres of Julia Butler HansenNational Wildlife Refuge established for theconservation of the Columbian white-tailed deer.> State of OregonState land offers an assortment of recreational opportunitiesthroughout Clatsop County:The Fort-to-Sea TrailA 50-year vision becomes arealityDedicated on Nov. 14, 2005,the Fort-to-Sea Trail was thedream of the same group ofdedicated communityvolunteers who constructedthe replica of Fort Clatsop in1954 and 1955. They had yetanother idea: to build a trailconnecting the fort to the sea.The concept would be torecreate the experience thatLewis & Clark encountered asthey traveled between thetemporary fort and the PacificOcean (Appendix H – Map).The challenges were dauntinggiven the terrain and cost.The actual building of the traildid not start until 2004, whenan extraordinary alliance ofgenerous Oregon companies– along with federal, state andlocal agencies – was able tomake the project happen.The $10 million needed tobuild the trail included $5million for acquiring a 920-acre addition to Fort Clatsopand a 249-acre state park.Monies included federal andstate grants, private donationsand donations in-kind fromcitizens, groups and agenciesoffering labor, materials andengineering expertise.Scott Stonum, the chief ofresource management atLewis & Clark NationalHistorical Park and memberof the Recreational LandsMaster Plan Task Force,commented on the completionof the project:“I was anticipating more of astruggle getting it done,” hesaid. “We had an unfundedproject that was prettymonumental. But thecommunity involvement andcommunity spirit has been anincredible, wonderfulsurprise.”Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 41

• The Oregon Parks and Recreation Departmentoperates sites managed specifically for recreationalpurposes, including campsites, day use areas, beachaccess, waysides and forest preserves (Table 9).• The Oregon Department of Forestry owns andmanages a diverse group of recreation facilities in theAstoria District of Clatsop State Forest (Table 10).ODF has designated recreational activity zones acrossthe Clatsop State Forest as shown in Appendix I.• The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlifemanages over 1,000 acres of wildlife habitat in ClatsopCounty, including the 962-acre Jewell Meadows WildlifeArea.> CitiesThe incorporated municipalities in Clatsop County providerecreational sites and activity programs. The city of Astoriathrough its parks and recreation department has an extensiveinventory of park sites and offers a wide range of recreationalprograms. Although other municipalities do not have solepurposeparks and recreation departments, all own public parkproperties and provide recreational opportunities to theirresidents, people living in adjoining unincorporated areas andvisitors to Clatsop County.> Clatsop CountyClatsop County’s parks system consists of 13 parks totaling574 acres of land and six recreation sites totaling 443 acres ofland. Six of the parks and recreation land sites include publicboat ramps. County park properties offer active recreationalopportunities including camping, day use and passive naturalsites. See Chapter 7 for specific details.42 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Public School DistrictsThe local school districts in Clatsop County provide certainrecreational facilities to the public. School facilities such asgymnasiums and ball fields are often made available forgeneral public use during after-school hours and the summermonths (Table 15, page 50).> Park and Recreation DistrictThe Sunset Empire Park and Recreation District with facilitieslocated in Seaside includes all properties within SeasideSchool District #10 except the incorporated cities of Gearhartand Cannon Beach. It is a tax-levying recreation districtserving an area roughly between Cullaby Lake on the north,Tolovana Park on the south, and Hamlet on the east. It hasan annual operating budget of approximately $2 million, withroughly half of this amount coming from its tax base.The district’s indoor pool and therapy pool are open to thepublic on a year-round basis. Aquatic offerings includeinstruction, fitness, recreation, competition and special eventprograms. A variety of non-aquatic recreation and leisuretimeactivity programs include competitive team sport leagues,children’s and teen activities, arts and crafts and performingarts. The district’s varied recreational offerings are enjoyed bya large number of county residents; estimated participant usesare about 100,000 per year.> Private ProvidersPrivate sector recreational providers include:• Non-profit organizations such as youth soccer and baseballgroups.• Private commercial operators, such as golf courses, RVparks and campgrounds.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 43

Industrial Forest LandsBy total acres, private industrial forest lands provide thelargest land base for recreation in Clatsop County. Privateresource land managers allow limited public recreationalaccess to their lands for activities such as hunting, hiking,fishing, biking and horseback riding. (See Appendix J forWeyerhaeuser Company recreational map and rules.)> Recreation InventoriesDuring the master plan update, the recreational inventories forvarious facilities and recreational providers in Clatsop Countywere generated. Tables for the following are given on pages45 through 51:• Oregon Parks and Recreation Department• Clatsop State Forest Recreation Facilities• Public Water Access: Rivers and Streams• Public Water Access: Boat Ramps• Designated Area Trails• Golf Courses• School District Facilities• Other Tennis Courts• RV and Camping Facilities44 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Table 9 – Oregon Parks and Recreation DepartmentLands in Clatsop CountySITE & LOCATIONPICNICBEACHACCESSCAMPINGBIKE/HIKE/TRAILSArcadia Beach State RecreationSite US 101, 3 mi. south of CannonBeach; 25 acresXXBradley State Scenic Viewpoint,US 30, 22 mi. east of Astoria; 18XacresDel Rey Beach State RecreationSite, US 101, 2 mi. north ofXGearhart; 18 acresEcola State Park, off US 101, 2 mi.north of Cannon Beach X X X XFort Stevens State Park, RidgeRoad, Warrenton; 3762 acres X X X XCOMMENTSRestrooms, parking lotColumbia River viewpoint,restroom, parking lotVehicle beach access andparking lotOcean viewpoints, hike-incamp at Indian Creek.Elmer Feldenheimer ForestHistoric museum,Coffenbury LakeHug Point State Recreation Site,US 101, 3 mi. south of CannonBeach; 42 acresOswald West State Park, US 101,10 mi. south of Cannon Beach 2,474total acres, 281 acres in ClatsopSaddle Mountain State NaturalArea, off US 26, 10 mi. east ofSeaside 2,921 acresXXX X X XX X XRestrooms, parking lot36 primitive campsites,developed portion inTillamook County9 primitive campsites, 2 1/2mi. hiking trail to summitviewpointsSunset Beach, Sunset Beach Road;157 total acres X XSunset Highway Forest Wayside,US 26; South county line; 1,084 total Xacres, 530 in Clatsop CountyTolovana Beach State RecreationSite, US 101, 1 mi. south of Cannon XXBeach; 3 acresFor additional information, see OPRD website at: http://egov.oregon.gov/OPRD/Part of the Lewis and ClarkNat. & State Hist. Parks,restroom, parking lot, trailsRestroom, Steam DonkeyInterpretive TrailRestrooms, parking lotClatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 45

Table 10 – Clatsop State ForestRecreation FacilitiesSITE LOCATION COMMENTS FEESGnat Creek CampgroundHenry Rierson Spruce RunCampgroundNorthrup Creek Horse CampLost Lake4 dispersedcamping sitesBloom Lake TrailJust east of Knappa(milepost 78 on US 30)on the Gnat CreekForest RoadFive miles south of Elsie(milepost 20 on US 26)on the Lower NehalemRoadLowland meadows ofNorthrup Creek north ofHwy 202Just east of HenryRierson Spruce RunCampground, accessibleby trailLower Nehalem RiverBloom Lake Trail On US26 about milepost 25Soapstone Lake TrailBetween mileposts 4 and5 on Hwy 53 in Hamlet,about 0.5 mile down theroad to trailhead.Archery range Just east of Hwy 202between Astoria andOlneyDemonstration forestODF office in Astoria onHwy 202Primitive campground on Gnat Creek with sixwalk-in campsites; several salmon andsteelhead runs throughout the year.Amenities include 32 vehicle sites, five walkinsites, restrooms, drinking water, picnictables and fire pits; garbage service andfirewood sales in summer.Eight horse camp sites with truck and horsetrailer parking, tent sites and horse corrals;vaulted restrooms, manure bins, day usearea, trails and well also available.Only developed facility at lake is a primitiveboat launching area; information kioskavailable. Lake is periodically stocked withtrout by ODFW.Sites include gravel parking areas, tent sites,picnic tables and fire rings.$5 for walk-in tentsites; $2 for eachextra vehicle$10 for vehicle sites;$2 for each extravehicle; $5 for walkintent sites.$10 for vehicle andequestrian sites; $2for each extravehicleNoneNoneTrail offers easy to moderate hiking, leading Nonefrom an information kiosk at the trailhead for1.25 miles to Bloom Lake.Two-mile trail offers moderate hikingopportunities with several bridges, sets ofsteps, a stream crossing and an elevatedwalk along the trail.Unique archery range wandering along aforested trail with various targets to shootat.Seven-acre self-guided demonstration forestwith interpretive exhibits explaining benefitsof forest management; school field tripsencouraged.All facilities open year-round. For more information, call or visit Astoria District Office, 92219 Hwy 202. Phone: (503) 325-5451 orsee ODF website at: http://egov.oregon.gov/ODF/NoneNoneNone46 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Table 11 –Public Water Access:Rivers and Streams*WATERWAY SITE FRONTAGE OWNERSHIPBig Creek Big Creek County Park 1500 LF Clatsop CountyBig Creek Frontage North of US 30 1500 LF ODFWBig Creek Frontage near mouth 1200 LF ODFW access leaseColumbia River South Jetty & River Beach 2 miles State ParksColumbia River Wauna River Beach Georgia PacificColumbia RiverColumbia RiverColumbia RiverWestport River BeachClatsop SpitJetty SandsColumbia River Knappa Dock Clatsop CountyColumbia River Blind Slough North Coast Land ConservancyGnat Creek Frontage below hatchery 1500 LF ODFW access leaseGnat Creek Below hatchery 3 miles ODF open land policyGnat Creek Above hatchery all lands ODF open land policyKlaskanine, N. Fork Sigfridson County Park 4000 LF Clatsop CountyKlaskanine, N. Fork Frontage above hatchery 600 LF ODF open land policyKlaskanine, N. Fork Nehalem County Park 300 LF Clatsop CountyLewis & Clark River Frontage above 400 line WeyerhaeuserLewis & Clark River Lewis and Clark NHP 1.5 milesNecanicum River Klootchy Creek County Park 3000 LF Clatsop CountyNecanicum River Frontage above Black Bridge 1950 LF ODFW ownershipNecanicum River Beerman Creek 1830 LFNehalem River Charney Site (below Elsie) 7000 LF ODFW ownershipNehalem River Spruce Run Park ODF CampgroundNehalem River varied large stretches ODF open land policyNehalem River, N. Fork Foss site below county parcel 1520 ODFW access easementNehalem River, N. Fork Frontage below hatchery 1500 LF ODFW ownershipYoungs River Youngs River Falls City of AstoriaYoungs River Frontage above Falls 9 miles Weyerhaeuser*Partial list of public access points, additional private and public access points exist throughout the countyClatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 47

Table 12 –Public Water Access:Boat Ramps*LOCATION OWNERSHIP MAINTENANCECOLUMBIA RIVERHammond Basin Town of Hammond Town of HammondWarrenton Basin (Skipanon River) City of Warrenton City of WarrentonAstoria Yacht Club (Youngs River) City of Astoria City of AstoriaEast End Basin Port of Astoria Port of AstoriaJohn Day River Clatsop County Clatsop CountyAldrich Point Private Clatsop CountyWestport Slough Georgia Pacific Clatsop CountyEast End Pier Port of Astoria -NECANICUM RIVERQuatat Park City of Seaside City of SeasideFranklin Street City of Seaside City of SeasideBeerman Creek ODFW ODFWHoward Johnson Rock Private PrivateKlootchy Creek Park Clatsop County Clatsop CountyNEAWANNA CREEKBroadway Park Seaside SeasideNEHALEM RIVERPope/Meeker Road ODFW ODFWOTHER SITESKlaskanine River Gindroz/Nygaard PrivateCullaby Lake Clatsop County Clatsop CountySunset Lake Public Neighborhood GroupCoffenbury Lake State Parks State ParksCreep & Crawl Lake State Parks State ParksSkipanon River 2nd Street City of Warrenton City of WarrentonLewis & Clark River Boat Ramp Clatsop County Clatsop CountyLewis & Clark River Netul Landing National Park Service National Park ServiceMill Pond Seaside SeasideLost Lake ODF ODF*Partial list, additional private and public access points may exist throughout the county48 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Table 13 – Designated Area TrailsTRAIL NAME TYPE LENGTH OWNERSHIP/DEVELOPERFort to Sea National Historic 6.5 Lewis & Clark National/State ParkNetul River National Historic 1.5 Lewis & Clark National ParkClatsop Loop National Historic 2.5 Lewis & Clark National/State ParkGnat Creek Hiking 1.5 Oregon Department of ForestryNorthrup Creek Horse Camp/Trail Shared-use 5 Oregon Department of ForestrySoapstone Lake Shared-use 2 Oregon Department of ForestryBloom Creek Shared-use 1.3 Oregon Department of ForestrySteam Donkey Shared-use 0.8 Oregon Department of ForestryFort Stevens Shared-use 9 Oregon State ParksTillamook Hiking 4.5 Oregon State ParksSaddle Mountain Hiking 2.5 Oregon State ParksCullaby Lake Wetland Trail Shared-use 1.5 Clatsop CountyDeLaura Beach Shared-use ~10 Clatsop CountyUrban Trails Shared-use ~50 City of AstoriaRiver Walk Rail with Trail 3.9 City of AstoriaMiddle School Hiking - City of AstoriaWarrenton Waterfront Shared-use 4 Warrenton Trails AssociationAirport Dike Trail Shared-use 2 Warrenton Trails AssociationOregon Coast Trail Hiking 25 Oregon Coast TrailGateway to Discovery Hiking - City of SeasideTable 14 – Golf CoursesSite Telephone # Location Type # Holes LengthAstoria Golf & Country Club 503-861-2211 Off US 101, 5 mi. S. of Warrenton Private 18 Holes 6,488 ydHighlands Golf Course 503-738-5248Off US 101, Del Rey Beach Road(N. of Gearhart UGB) Public 9 Holes 1,740 ydGearhart Golf Links 503-738-3538 Off US 101, Gearhart Public 18 Holes 6,218 ydSeaside Golf Club 503-738-5261 US 101, Avenue U in Seaside Public 9 Holes 2,610 ydAlberston Golf Range 503-717-0623 33575 Toyas Ln, Seaside Public Range N/ALewis & Clark Country Golf 503-338-3386 92319 Youngs River Road, Astoria Public 9 Holes 2,738Youngs Bay Driving Range 503-325-2220 92621 Wireless Road, Astoria Public Range N/AClatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 49

Table 15 – School District FacilitiesSCHOOL DISTRICT GYMS BASEBALL FOOTBALL TRACK OTHERAstoria #1CAstoria High School 2 2 1 1 1Astoria Middle School 2 2 1 1 1Astor Elementary 2 2 1 2 Tennis 1Gray Elementary 1Lewis & Clark Elementary 1 1Warrenton #30Warrenton High School 1 1 1Warrenton Grade School 1 1 1Seaside #10Seaside High School 1 1 1 1 1 TennisBroadway Middle School 2 1 1 1 TennisSeaside Elementary School 1Gearhart Elementary School 1 1Cannon Beach Elementary 1Jewell #8High/Grade Schools 1 1 2 1 1 Tennis 2Knappa Columbia County #5JKnappa High School 1 1 (Soft) 1 1Hilda Lahti School 1 11Owned City of Astoria2Under construction at time of publicationTable 16 – Other Tennis CourtsCITY LOCATION COURTS MAINTENANCEAstoria Niagara Park 2 CityWarrenton City Park 4 CityGearhart City Park 2 CityGearhart Highlands 2 PrivateCannon Beach City Park 2 City50 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Table 17 – Camping and RV Facilities in Clatsop CountyClatsop CountyRV Parks & CampgroundsAstoria/Seaside KOA1100 NW Ridge RdClatsop County FairgroundsWalluski Loop, hwy 202 2 mi east ofAstoriaFort Stevens State ParkRidge Road, WarrentonGnat Creek CampgroundJust east of Knappa (milepost 78 on US30) on the Gnat Creek Forest RoadHammond Marina RV Park320 Lake St., HammondKampers West Good Sampark1140 NW Warrenton Dr.Klatskanine River RV Park88590 Hwy. 202, 11 miles east of AstoriaSunset Lake Resort & RV Park33242 Sunset Beach LaneHenry Rierson Spruce RunCampgroundFive miles south of Elsie (milepost 20 onUS 26) on the Lower Nehalem RoadNorthrup Creek Horse CampMilepost 35 on Hwy 202, 4 miles west ofBirkenfeld.Ecola State ParkOff US 101, 2 mi. north of Cannon BeachRV Resort at Cannon Beach345 Elk Creek RoadOswald West State ParkUS 101, 10 mi. south of Cannon BeachSea Ranch RV Park & Stables415 Fir St.Phone E-mail/Website RV(hookup)Lower Columbia RiverTentCabin/YurtNotes503-861-2606 astoriakoa@aol.com311(222) 26 54+ 2 Mini golf, indoor pool and hot tub,www.astoriakoa.comlodges volleyball.503 325-4600 110(110) 0 0 Showers, 109 acres503-861-1671800-452 5687800-551-6949www.oregonstateparks.org/park_179.phpWright's For Camping 503-436-2347 wrights@seasurf.netBud's Campground & Grocery4412 Hwy 101Circle Creek RV Park & Campground85658 Highway 101Forest Lakes Resort85203 Hwy 101Pine Cove Motel & Trailer Court2481 Highway 101 NSaddle Mountain State Natural Area,off US 26, 10 mi. east of SeasideThousand Trails/Leisure TimeResorts1703 12th Ave. ½ east of 101Truckes Necanicum River RV Park1921 S Hwy. 101Venice RV Park1032 24 Ave, 1.25 miles N Seaside hwy101479(177) 19 15 3762 acres0/0 6 0 Primitive campground on Gnat Creekwith sixwalk-in campsites; several salmon andsteelhead runs throughout the year.503-861-0547 50(50) 0 0 Laundry, shower, cable TV503-861-1814800-880-5267info@kamperswest.comwww.kamperswest.com160(160) 0 3 2 club rooms, fish cleaning, crabcooking.503-325-8595 KlatskanineRiverRVPark@msn.com 15(15) 10 0 On the river, 11 miles east of Astoria,bath room and showers.503-861-1760 sunsetlake@sunsetlake.faithweb.com 22(2) 6 0 Store, bath and laundrywww.sunsetlake.faithweb.comInterior32(0) 5 Amenities include 32 vehicle sites, fivewalk-in sites, restrooms, drinking water,picnic tables and fire pits; garbageservice and firewood sales in summer.0/0 0 8* *8 horse camp sites with truck andhorse trailer parking, tent sites andhorse corrals; vaulted restrooms,manure bins, day use area, trails andwell also available.Cannon Beach800-452 5687 www.oregonstateparks.org 0 0 3 Hike in800-551-6949503-436-2231 info@cbrvresort.com100(100) 0 0 Cable TV, indoor Pool, spa, playground,800-847-2231 www.cbrvresort.combasketball, convenience store, shuttle800 452 5687 www.oregonstateparks.org/park_195. 0 30 0 Hike in, 2,474 acres800 551-6949 php503-436-2815 searanch@seasurf.net38(14) 41 7 Restrooms, May to Sept beach horsewww.searanchrv.comrides. Children and animal friendly.www.campingfriends.com/searanchrvpark7(0) 19 0 Showers laundry, wooded area.www.wrightsforcamping.comSeaside503-738-685526(26) 10 0 Restrooms, showers, laundry, groceries800-730–6855503-738-6070 circlecreek101@hotmail.com 44(44) 28 0 Restrooms, showers, laundry,Necanicum river fishing.503-738-0100503-738-5243 25(25) 6 0 12 motel rooms800-452-5687800-551-6949www.oregonstateparks.org/park_197.php0 10 0 Drive in, 2,921 acres503-738-0626 www.1000trails.com 219(219) 25+ 26 Private, membership required. Indoortrailers, pool, tennis, sauna, laundry, RC-cars,6 cabins basketball.503-738-8863 15(0) 0 0 Convenience store and gas503-738-8851 www.shopseaside.com/vrv 30(30) 6 0 Cable TV, laundry, showersClatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 51

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5 > PARK SYSTEM GOALS, OBJECTIVESAND ACTION STRATEGIESFive goals were identified along with objectives and actionsneeded to support our vision of a vital, prosperous parks andrecreation system that contributes to the quality of life inClatsop County.> Planning GoalsOregon Statewide Planning Goal 8 requires local governmentsto inventory recreation needs based on adequate research andanalysis of public wants and desires and to inventory availablerecreation opportunities.Extensive time and energy were dedicated to the developmentof planning goals and subsequent objectives and actionstrategies for Clatsop County parks and recreational lands.The intent of these goals has been reviewed during the publicinvolvement process and has been narrowed down to fivebroad planning goals. The goals listed in this section apply tothe general implementation and management of the countypark system and are directed toward the vision of the missionstatement.Master Plan Task ForceVision Statement:“By 2015, Clatsop County willbe a contributor to a countywiderecreational system ofparks and trails that are wellknown, maintained andsupported. This recreationalsystem will add significantly tothe area’s growing reputationas a good, healthy place tolive, work and visit.”Goal 1 – Parks ManagementGoal 2 – Funding and OperationGoal 3 – Community Health and Social and Economic BenefitsGoal 4 – Environmental StewardshipGoal 5 – Regional Recreational Connections> Objectives and Action StrategiesThe strategic actions in this section identify the steps necessary toachieve the various goals and objectives outlined. Also shown arethe individuals or groups with lead responsibility for carrying outeach objective or action and the time frame in which it is to beaccomplished.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 53

Table 18 – Goals, Objectives and Action Strategies54 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

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6 > DEFINITIONS AND STANDARDSPark classification systems have been used successfullyelsewhere in the country to manage park resources, market tothe public, and plan for future development. A system basedon existing park inventories is proposed in this report, alongwith recommendations for park and facility standards.> Park ClassificationsRecognizing the diversity of the resources and variety of useswithin the county parks, we recommend a park classificationsystem. The classifications will serve as a guide to theongoing management and use of the existing parks and openspace lands, and the future development of new ones. Eachpark will be assigned a classification based on its dominantfeature, recognizing that parks may share some of thecharacteristics of other park categories.The following park and recreational lands classifications areproposed:• Shared-use Parks• Special Use Area• Natural AreasRecommendation:Park Designation Process:Consider lease, trade or saleof park lands that have beenidentified as not fitting theoverall mission of the ParksMaster Plan in order to fundother aspects of the parksystem.Perform periodic reviews toevaluate whether theindividual parks designationis still valid.In addition, park and recreational lands that meet certaincriteria may be assigned a special designation overlay. Thefollowing overlays are proposed:• Gateway Designation• Leased Park Designation“I am from the local areaand have not heard ofsome sites: need moresignage andcommunication topublic.”Survey respondent,HammondAugust 2005Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 59

Shared-use ParksDefinitionSites that provide a range of park, recreation and open spaceopportunities.Role and FunctionMeet a variety of community-based, shared-use park andrecreational needs.“Unfortunately there isa lack of unvandalizedtoilet facilities.”Survey respondentAugust 2005“All the parks need to bemore publicized.Nobody knows about allthese parks. Put outmore information aboutthe parks and put bigsigns on them!”Survey respondentAugust 2005FacilitiesExamples of facilities deemed necessary to fulfill therecreational needs of the particular park: boat docks, builtrestroom facilities, water systems, covered picnic areas,playgrounds, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, baseball fields,barbecue pits, trails, parking, fee boxes, camp hosts, fishingdocks, signage, etc.Management Focus• Maintain all facilities and grounds in attractive, clean,safe and working order.• Identify park management zones: active areas, passiveareas and natural environment areas.• Install an interpretive signage and educational programthat will highlight the wonderful natural features of thearea.• Develop trails, viewing areas and other waterfront andwetland-related amenities, subject to environmentalconsiderations (e.g., boat launch, fishing pier, viewingplatforms or beach access).• Collect fees where feasible.60 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Special Use AreaDefinitionParks and recreation facilities oriented toward a single use orpurpose.Role and FunctionServe specific users and activities, including residents andvisitors. Examples include boat ramps, docks, campingfacilities, etc.“Dog parks! Wehave well behavedspringers that loveto run.”Survey respondentAstoriaAugust 2005FacilitiesAll facilities support the primary use.Management Focus• Maintain all facilities and grounds in good, safe andworking order.• Identify park management zones: active areas, passiveareas and natural environment areas.• Establish an interpretive signage and educationalprogram that can highlight the wonderful naturalfeatures of the area.• Facilitate public access and views to natural features.• Establish fee collection where feasible.> Natural Areas (Low-Impact Recreation)DefinitionThe primary purpose of these sites is to conserve the naturalenvironment while allowing for low-impact, nature-basedrecreational activities.Role and FunctionSelf-directed, resource-oriented outdoor recreation thatcomplements the unique and natural features of each sitewithout harming the environment. Natural areas are typicallyless developed and managed to preserve natural processes.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 61

FacilitiesLow-impact facilities including trails, trailheads, modestcomfort facilities (restrooms), informal parking areas,information/interpretive kiosks, and directional/way findingsignage.“We have lived here allour lives and I havenever seen anyinformation out oncounty parks.”Survey respondent,Youngs River areaAugust 2005Management Focus• Protect important natural and cultural heritagefeatures.• Manage and enhance environmental resources;examples include forest land, fisheries and otherwildlife.• Identify appropriate use of areas and trail routes.• Encourage shared-use trails wherever possible andappropriate to serve the greatest number of users;separate trail uses where necessary if conflict isunavoidable.• Install an interpretive signage and educational programthat will highlight the unique natural and historicfeatures throughout these parks; examples include birdwatching, nature enjoyment and trails use.• Establish a “Carry-in / Carry-out” trash policy withinthese scenic and natural park settings.62 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Gateway DesignationDefinitionGateway parks are likely points of first contact with the largerpark system.Role and FunctionServe as a gateway to the parks system with informationabout other parks that visitors might like to see.FacilitiesKiosks, information centers, fee payment systems.Management FocusMaintain the information booths, fee collection.> Leased Park DesignationDefinitionParks that are leased to a third party that manages the parkfor a specific purpose.Role and FunctionProvide a needed, popular or historic public service.FacilitiesAs needed by the leasing entity and consistent with the leaseagreement, but consistent with returning the land to itsunderlying designated use at the conclusion of the lease.Management FocusEnsure that the terms of the lease are followed.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 63

Table 19 – Park & Recreational LandsClassification MatrixParksA.Shared-UseB.SpecialUseC.Natural(LowImpactRec)D.GatewayAldrich PointuBig CreekuCarnahanuCullaby Lake u u*David DouglasuLee WoodenuJohn Day u u*Klootchy Creek u u*North ForkuNehalem Park(Hwy 53)Nehalem Parku(Red Bluff)SigfridsonuSmith LakeuWestport u u*E.LeasedParksRecreational AreasA.ShareduseB.SpecialUseC.Natural(LowD.GatewayE.LeasedParksImpactRec)Camp Cullaby(BSA) u uDeLaura BeachuLewis & ClarkuCamp Kiwanilong u uTwilight EagleuLower Co. Soccer u u*Proposed designations64 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

ZoningExisting zoning does not fully account for current uses orfuture plans for county parks. Based review by the TaskForce, county parks and recreational lands are inconsistentlyzoned. In the opinion of the Task Force, the RM (RecreationManagement) zone is the closest match.We recommend defining all county parks and recreationallands as county-owned land zoned RM. The parks master plan(or specific, individual park master plans) would become thedocument controlling use or conditional uses. The parksclassification document described in this chapter provides aneffective guideline for current use and future plans.Recommendation:We recommend definingall county parks andrecreational lands ascounty-owned landzoned RM.Table 20 – County Zoning Relevant to Parks andRecreation LandsUse/ZonePurposeApplicabilityDevelopment& UsePark Master Plan Zone(Section 3.900)The purpose of this zone is to providefor the long term protection,management and enjoyment ofnatural, cultural, scenic, open spaceand recreational resources withinpublicly-owned or managed parks.This zone will be applied only to publicparks which have master plansadopted by Clatsop County pursuantto OAR 660 Division 34Park uses and facilities that areconsistent with a park master planadopted pursuant to OAR 660 Division34, and with applicable developmentstandards, are allowed through thereview procedures…Open Space, Parks, andRecreation Zone(Section 3.580)The OPR zone is intended to provide forthe conservation of open space; theprotection and development of areasuniquely suited for outdoor recreation andthe protection of designated scenic,natural and cultural resource areas.Farm use. Forest use. Wildlife refuge ormanagement area. Public regional parkor recreation area excludingcampgrounds. Historical or archaeologicalsite/area. Golf courses except in areasidentified as Coastal Shorelands. R.V.Park subject to Section S3.550-S3.552except in the Clatsop Plains PlanningArea. Other watersheds. Public orprivate neighborhood park or playground.Golf driving range. Municipally ownedwatersheds. Accessory developmentcustomarily provided in conjunction withthe above developments. Property lineadjustment. Low intensity recreation.Recreation Management Zone(Section 3.594)This zone is intended to be applied toexisting public and private parksparticularly those that containsignificant natural values. These areasare intended to accommodate thetype of recreational development thatinsures the maintenance of the site'snatural values.General maintenance and operationof existing recreation facilities.Recreational improvements andadditions necessary to serve the samevisitor capacity served by the existingfacilities, provided that off-siteimpacts are not disturbed.Property line adjustments.Low intensity recreation.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 65

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7 > COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATIONALLANDSOn-site inventories conducted by Task Force members reveal anumber of opportunities for better utilizing county-owned parkproperties. The data can serve as a benchmark for futureplanning.> Parks and Recreational LandsClatsop County benefits from an array of natural resourcesand habitats. Lands within the county range from coastalshorelines and wetlands to freshwater streams and estuaries;from lowland meadows and dunes to the forested mountainsof the Coast Range. These diverse environments can beexperienced in the county’s park system.This chapter provides inventory information and site-specificrecommendations for parks and other recreational sites ownedand managed by Clatsop County. Potential recreational sitesand camping facilities are addressed later in the chapterTable 21 lists Clatsop County’s 13 designated parks and sixrecreational sites and their size. This is followed by Figure 2on which their locations are identified.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 67

Table 21 – Parks and Recreation LandsCounty ParksAcresAldrich Point Boat Ramp 4Big Creek Park 36Carnahan Park 31Cullaby Lake Park 165David Douglas Park 64Lee Wooden/Fishhawk Falls Park. 47John Day Park/Boat Ramp 58Klootchy Creek Park 25Nehalem Park (Red Bluff) 49North Fork Nehalem Park 3Sigfridson Park 64Smith Lake Park 3Westport Boat Ramp 27Total Acreage 577Recreation LandsAcresCamp Cullaby (Camp Royce-Finel) 62Camp Kiwanilong 191DeLaura Beach 164Lewis and Clark Boat Ramp 3Lower Columbia Youth Soccer Assoc. 4Twilight Eagle Sanctuary 15Total Acreage 44368 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Figure 2 – Park and Recreational Lands MapClatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 69

Habitat SummaryOpportunities andConstraints Analysis:We recommend that furtherhabitat analysis and athorough opportunities andconstraints study accompanyfuture planning anddevelopment of countyparklands.Earlier planning efforts by the county have yielded anoverview of general habitat classifications that are common tothe park and recreation lands. Table 22 summarizes the typesof habitat areas that are typical of each of the park andrecreation land sites and provides an overview of the sensitivehabitat areas, unusual species and development pressures.Table 22 – Habitat SummaryAquatic Riparian Wetland Shrub Forest Meadow Sensitive Habitat/Development PressuresCounty ParksAldrich Point Boat Ramp X X X X Columbia River shoreline, isolatedBig Creek Park X X X X X X Big Creek shoreline, bank erosion and wetlandsCarnahan Park X X X X X Cullaby Lake shorelineCullaby Lake Park X X X X X Adjacent development and wetlandsDavid Douglas Park X Old growth trees, high habitat valueLee Wooden/Fishhawk Falls Pk. X X X X X X Falls are unique landscape feature, diverse siteJohn Day Park/Boat Ramp X X X Diverse wetlandsKlootchy Creek Park X X X X X Unique tree stand, Nacanicum shorelineNehalem Park (Red Bluff) X Old growth trees, high habitat valueNorth Fork Nehalem Park X X X Nehalem River shorelineSigfridson Park X X X X X X Open meadows, Klaskanine River shorelineSmith Lake Park X X X Lake frontageWestport Boat Ramp X X X X X Slough and riparian habitatAquatic Riparian Wetland Shrub Forest Meadow Sensitive Habitat/Development PressuresRecreation LandsCamp Cullaby (Camp Royce-Finel) X X X X X Wetlands and mature forested areasCamp Kiwanilong X X X X X X Diverse dune habitat, wetlands, and lakesDeLaura Beach X X X Coastal site with rare deflation plain wetlandsLewis and Clark Boat Ramp X X X Lewis & Clark River shorelineTwilight Eagle Sanctuary X X X X Columbia River shoreline, isolatedLower Columbia Youth Soccer X X X70 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Designated County ParksClatsop County’s 13 designated parks are described in detailon pages 72-103. Considerable effort was taken by TaskForce members to collect and verify these data; theyrepresent an important repository of historic, legal,management and marketing data.Many issues arose during the process of collecting park data.These are described in the “Management Opportunities &Challenges” and “Recommendations & Comments” section foreach park. Chapter 5 contains Goals, Objectives and ActionStrategies that relate to county parks. Current park rules andregulations are listed in Appendix O.Recommendation:Park inventory datacollected during theprocess of producing thisreport shall be:1. preserved in adatabase2. updated regularly, and3. available to the publicon the county’s Website.An overview of current facilities is shown below.Table 23– Facility Inventory by SiteDay Use Fee RequiredPaved Parking AreaPrimitive Parking AreaRestrooms (Flush)Vault Toilet/Chemical ToiletCampsitesReservable Picnic SheltersBBQ/Cooking FacilitiesCounty ParksAldrich Point Boat Ramp X X X X X XBig Creek Park X X X X XCarnahan Park X X X X X X X X XCullaby Lake Park X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X XDavid Douglas ParkXLee Wooden/Fishhawk Falls Pk. X X XJohn Day Park/Boat Ramp X X X X X X X XKlootchy Creek Park X XNehalem Park (Red Bluff)XNorth Fork Nehalem Park X X X XSigfridson Park X X X XSmith Lake ParkXWestport Boat Ramp X X X X X X XRecreation LandsCamp Cullaby (Camp Royce-Finel) X X X X X XCamp Kiwanilong X X X X X X X XDeLaura Beach X X X XLewis and Clark Boat Ramp X X X X XLower Columbia Youth Soccer X XTwilight Eagle Sanctuary X X XBoat Launch FacilitiesFishing/Transit DockSwimming AreaFishing AreaWalking/HikingEquestrian TrailsPlaygroundPicnic TablesBaseball/Softball/SoccerVolleyball CourtsOpen Play AreaNatural Area/WetlandsInterpretive/EducationSignageHistoric StructuresClatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 71

ALDRICH POINT BOAT RAMPLocation: End of Aldrich Point Road, 5.4miles north of Hwy. 30 betweenmilepost 79-80, BrownsmeadareaMap: 9N 7W Section 26 – #104, #100Size:3.73 acresOwnership Status: CountyLand-use zone:Aquatic Natural (AN)Classification:Special UseHistory:n/aAcquisition by County:n/aDescription/Natural Features:The Aldrich Point Boat Ramp is located at the end of AldrichPoint Road in the Brownsmead area in eastern Clatsop County.This narrow, one lane improved boat ramp and transit dockoffers access to the Columbia River at river mile 29. Itprovides access to the Lewis and Clark Wildlife Refuge that islocated north of the boat ramp. This site is popularthroughout the year and provides excellent water accessopportunities for canoeing, kayaking, boating, waterfowlhunting and Columbia River fishing.Cultural/Historical Significance:n/aGeological Significance:Aldrich Point is the northernmost point in the State of Oregon.This facility is located on the broad floodplain along the southshore of the Columbia River.72 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Recreation Utilization:The primary users year-round are fishermen and waterfowlhunters launching watercraft to access the Columbia River andRefuge. During the warmer summer months, use by nonmotorizedboaters increases. Non-boating uses are limiteddue to poor beach access and primitive facilities.Facility Inventory:• Single lane boat launch• Transit dock• Informal gravel parking area• Chemical toiletDevelopment History:• (2004) Installation of new rock fill along the edges ofboat ramp and in between the existing cement boatramp blocks for cost: of $10,500.• (1999) Removal of deteriorated boarding floats/docks.• (1999) $5,000 approved by BCC for construction bylocals of new boarding floats: no activity to date.Management Opportunities/Challenges:• Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB) provides $3,000annually for limited maintenance and operations of thissite.• At this time, county maintenance and operations costsare limited to staff time only.• Current property boundary issues prevent the countyfrom pursuing OSMB improvement grants.• OSMB grants and other funding sources could beutilized to provide continued public access to thissection of the Columbia River for boaters, birdwatchers, nature enthusiasts, fishermen and hunters.ALDRICH POINT RAMPRecommendations &Comments:Operations andMaintenance• Resolve the propertyboundary issue toallow for improvementof this site.• Secure OSMB (OregonState Marine Board)grants for parkimprovements.• Establish a day-use feeand collection systemfor this site.Capital Improvements• Consider parkimprovements,including:‣ Improved parkingfacility‣ Enhanced boatlaunch and dockfacilities‣ Vault toiletClatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 73

BIG CREEK COUNTY PARKLocation:Big Creek Lane off of HillcrestLoop, ½ mile south of Hwy. 30at milepost 82, Knappa areaMap: 8N 7W Section 19 – #25Size:36 acres, including 1,500 linearfeet Big CreekOwnership Status: CountyLand-use zone:Recreational Management (RM)Classification:Shared-useHistory:n/aAcquisition by County:The property was acquired from the Knappa DevelopmentCompany on April 4, 1969 for the sum of $17,000.Description/Natural Features:This county park site, which adjoins Big Creek, provides anattractive, secluded, natural setting for stream fishing andday-use activities. The vegetation communities on-site arediverse and include riparian areas along Big Creek, open fieldand flat forested areas, wetlands and forested foothills. Thevegetation found within the boundaries of the park is typical ofnative plant communities found in Clatsop County. This parkprovides direct access to Big Creek salmon, steelhead andtrout fisheries.Cultural/Historical Significance:n/aGeological Significance:Big Creek is a coastal foothills stream that flows from the westslope of Nicolai Mountain in a northerly direction for a distanceof about ten miles to the confluence with the Columbia River.Upstream mining activities during the 1990s caused thestream channel of Big Creak to re-route.74 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Recreation Utilization:Use of the site is relatively light and includes fishing, openspace and picnicking. The existing baseball field is usedperiodically.Facility Inventory:• Single baseball field, backstop, benches and concessionstand located north of the entrance road. It is currentlybeing partially maintained by local residents, and isused as a practice field.• Primitive walking paths throughout site and alongbanks of creek.• A graveled cul-de-sac turnaround area and informalparking area at terminus of entrance road. Vehiclebarriers have been installed to define parking area.• Vehicular access provided over a county-maintained,paved 16-foot wide entrance road that connects toHillcrest Loop.Development History:• (1991) Master plan completed.• (1986) Youth baseball field constructed by CountyParks in partnership with local community group.Recreation facility formerly managed by communitygroup via cooperative agreement.• Log vehicle barricades have been recently added atperimeter of parking area.BIG CREEK PARKRecommendations &Comments:Operations and Maintenance• Limit improvementswithin riparian corridorand respond to streambank erosion throughbioengineering orarmoring to prevent lossof riparian habitat andfishing access.• Review long-term valueof baseball field andconsider removal toaccommodate new parkamenities.• Establish a managementplan to provide minimumlevel of maintenance,sanitation and security.• Consider temporarypicnic tables andchemical toilet facilitiesduring summer monthsto accommodate usage.• Review the costs andrevenue benefits ofdeveloping primitiveovernight camping atthis site.Continued…Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 75

…continuedBIG CREEK PARKRecommendations &Comments:Capital Improvements• Consider parkimprovements, including:‣ Day-use fee station‣ Permanent vehiclebarriers and/orimproved parkingarea‣ Picnic tables andshelters‣ Paved and softsurface trails‣ Vault toilet facilitiesand utilities‣ Site furnishingsincluding benchesand trashreceptacles‣ Playgrounds‣ Enhanced ADAaccessibilityincluding parking,fishing platforms,etc.Management Opportunities/Challenges:• Vegetation management including controlling invasivespecies and restoration of riparian habitat.• Stream bank erosion from park user activities.• Underutilized forested flat area between stream bedand bluff could accommodate additional recreation andsite amenities.• Large flat meadow area currently occupied by baseballfield could accommodate additional recreation and siteamenities.• Acquisition of adjacent river frontage could expandpublic fishing access.• Underdeveloped and underutilized trails.• Site and water access is currently not ADA accessible.• Likely presence of on-site wetlands.• Various park improvements have been considered, buthave been postponed due to limited budgets.76 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

CARNAHAN COUNTY PARKLocation:Cullaby Lake Lane, ½ mileeast of Hwy. 101 betweenmilepost 13-14, south ofWarrentonMap: 7N 10W Section 15 – #500Size:31.4 acresOwnership Status: CountyLand-use zone: Open Space Parks and Rec(OPR)Classification: Shared-useHistory:The acreage for Carnahan Park was donated by the heirs of theCarnahan estate for the purpose of open space and recreation.Acquisition by County:Donated to Clatsop County in 1938.Description/Natural Features:This is an established day-use waterfront county park sitelocated on the north end of Cullaby Lake. 1,600 linear feet oflake shoreline, forested uplands and open meadows dominatethis low intensity park site.Geological Significance:Cullaby Creek feeds Cullaby Lake and outlets into theSkipanon River and eventually the Columbia River atWarrenton. See Cullaby Lake inventory.Cultural/Historical Significance:Carnahan County Park was established in 1939 by NellCarnahan to “promote the public welfare of the citizens ofClatsop County, and as a memorial to the Carnahan family.”The Carnahan family was prominent among the early settlersto Clatsop Plains.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 77

Recreation Utilization:Public boat launch access area to Cullaby Lake (speedrestricted area for boats), passive lake sports and fishingboats.CARNAHAN PARKRecommendations &Comments:Operations and Maintenance• County recommends thatState monitor waterquality and implementaquatic plant removal asneeded.• Monitor docks and repairor replace to maintainsafe park access.• Maintain existing dayusefacilities as outlinedin the park master plan.Capital Improvements• Consider parkimprovements, including:‣ Expanded trailsystem‣ Interpretive signageat key locations‣ Off-leash pet area,with water access‣ Enhanced ADAaccessible amenitiesincluding parking,pathways and fishingdocks‣ Enhanced boat rampfacilities to broadenappeal to boaters‣ Vault toiletFacility Inventory:• Small gravel boat ramp for non-motorized and smallpower boats• Fishing and water access from wooden dock with fourfixed benches• Steep primitive trails into wooded uplands, including apath crossing private land connecting to Boy Scouts ofAmerica leased camp• Informal wildlife and waterfowl viewing• Six wooden picnic tables• Trash receptacles• Informal parking areas and gated access roads• Seasonal fee collection facility• Seasonal chemical toiletDevelopment History:• (1995) Wood dock was rebuilt.• (1988) Master plan completed.• Boy Scouts of America and County partnered on thedevelopment of a potable water system.Management Opportunities/Challenges:• The ODFW has identified this site as an excellent areafor the development of ADA accessible fishing facilities.• Ongoing maintenance of wood docks.• Water quality, invasive aquatic plant growth andshoreline erosion issues associated with natural andmanmade impacts.78 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

CULLABY LAKE COUNTY PARKLocation:End of Hawkins Road off ofCullaby Lake Lane, ½ mile east ofHwy. 101 between milepost 13-14,south of WarrentonMap: 7N 10W Section 15 – 2400,Section 22 -#300, #400, #500,#600, #601, #4100, #4111,#2800, #2001Size:165 acresOwnership Status: CountyLand-use zone: Recreation Management (RM)Lake and Wetlands (LW)Classification: Shared-use, GatewayHistory:Around the late 1800s or 1900, a ditch was created betweenCullaby Lake and the old Skipanon Creek for the purpose oflogging transport and wetland drainage. In addition tologging, cranberry bogs on the west side of the lake wereproductive for residents in the 1900s. Around 1960, a Soiland Water Conservation project resulted in a water controlstructure at Cullaby Lake's north outflow, which created theCullaby Lake recreation area, with a parking lot, picnic areas,restrooms, boat ramps and a boat basin. In 1966 the annualAstoria Regatta was held on Cullaby Lake, and in March of1968 the Board of County Commissioners designated the165-acre site as the “Cullaby Lake County Park andRecreation Area.”Acquisition by County:Cullaby Lake County Park was created from several parcelsacquired by the county due to delinquent property taxes.The lake’s waterfront has been used for recreation for manyyears, but was officially designated a county park in 1968.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 79

Description/Natural Features:Cullaby Lake County Park is a popular day-use waterfront parkwith natural and developed recreation facilities. Featuresinclude access to the 219-acre Cullaby Lake with 4,400 linearfeet of shoreline, beaches, natural areas and community parkamenities dominate this high intensity park site.Cultural/Historical Significance:The Clatsop people had summer camps at Cullaby Lake, andLewis and Clark reference this site in their writings. As manyas 50 cedar dugout canoes, whose purpose may have beenceremonial burial by the native Clatsop people, were exposedwhen lake levels were artificially lowered.Cullaby was the name of a son and grandson of a sailor whowashed ashore near Tillamook after a shipwreck. The sailorand his wife moved north to live with the Clatsop peoplemaking the lake their home for part of each year. The sonwas mentioned in the diaries of Lewis and Clark and is theorigin of the lake’s name. The grandson was living by the lakewhen settlers began arriving in the area.The historic Lindgren Cabin, an example of early pioneer homeconstruction, was moved from its original site near SoapstoneLake to Cullaby Lake County Park. This building is owned bythe Finnish American Cultural Society and is openedperiodically for tours.Geological Significance:Between 4,000 and 5,000 years ago, the eastern side ofCullaby Lake was the ocean shore, as evidenced by theunearthing of non-native species of logs buried in the areathat had been washed ashore by the ocean that many yearsago. The gradual development of sand dunes on what is nowthe western side of Cullaby Lake was the precursor to bogs,estuarine sloughs, streams and lakes.Cullaby Creek feeds Cullaby Lake and outlets into theSkipanon River and eventually the Columbia River atWarrenton.80 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Recreation Utilization:Public boat launches, docks, swimming beaches, fishing areas,and diverse recreation and park amenities. This park is theonly developed public lake waterskiing and power boatingfacility in the county.Facility Inventory:• Two concrete motorized and non-motorized boat launchramp facilities• Two docks for transient moorage and fishing access• Paved automobile and trailer parking areas• Play equipment located at north picnic area• Three horseshoe pits• Two swim beaches (one at north picnic area, one atsouth picnic area)• Sandy bottom; mowed grassy bank; roped designatedswim area; no lifeguard provided by county• Bank access fishing areas• Two volleyball courts• North picnic area: picnic shelter, one large coveredgrill, four pedestal grills and 29 picnic tables.• South picnic area: picnic shelter, five pedestal grillsand 19 picnic tables• Restrooms: one accessible restroom at north picnicarea and boat launch, one restroom at south picnicarea• Drinking fountains: two in north picnic area, one insouth picnic area• Trash receptacles: 10 at north picnic area, six at southpicnic area• Primitive and developed trails with signage andwetlands viewing platform• Historic Lindgren Cabin• Park caretaker and maintenance facility• Fee collection siteClatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 81

CULLABY LAKE PARKRecommendations &Comments:Operations and Maintenance• County recommends thatState monitor waterquality and implementaquatic plant removal asneeded.• Map existing trail systemand develop walkingmaps for park.• Maintain existing dayusefacilities as outlinedin the park master plan.• Update parkmaster plan.• Explore statesupportedcampgroundconcept as arevenuegeneratingdevelopment.Capital Improvements• Consider parkimprovements, including:‣ Enhanced ADAamenities includingplayground andfishing areas‣ Expanded trail system‣ “Gateway”improvementsincluding camping,special event space,etc.Development History:• (2005) Wetlands Trail development• (2001) North parking lot paved for cost of $81,520.• (2000-2001) Construction of beach shoreline project.• (2000) Grant reconstructed boat launch for cost of$86,220.• (2000) Re-roof of playground picnic shelter.• (2000) Re-roof of Lindgren Cabin facilities.• (1999-2000) Campground Feasibility Study grant($19,000) by OSPRD, Phase II declined by county.• (1997-1998) Grant construction of new restroom forcost of $151,000.• (1997-1998) Campground Feasibility Study grant($25,000) by OSPRD, Phase I.• (1995) Agreement increased law enforcement presencebetween OSMB and County.• (1988) Master plan completed.• Replacement of play structure planned, awaiting grantapproval.• Mooring dock near north parking lot was installed inthe 1960s.Management Opportunities/Challenges:• Water quality, invasive aquatic plant growth andshoreline erosion issues associated with natural andmanmade actions could impact recreation experience.• Extensive large mature trees and on-site wetlandsneed mapping.• Management of invasive plant species.• Insect management: consider bat boxes, swallowboxes.• Potential opportunities for recreation activities onexisting paved areas.• Play equipment located at north picnic area needs tobe upgraded for safety and access.• Multiple trails throughout site provide walkingopportunities and need mapping.• Central location and access to Highway 101.82 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

DAVID DOUGLAS COUNTY PARKLocation: Located between milepost 13-14on Hwy 26, Saddle Mountainarea of US 26.Map: 5N 8W Section 21 – #2200Size:64.4 acresOwnership Status: CountyLand-use zone:Recreation Management (RM)Classification:Natural AreaHistory:Site was designated as park land in 1936 by County Board ofCommissioners for public benefit and preservation for futuregenerations.Acquisition by County:Property was held by the county through delinquent tax sales.The Northwest Discount Corporation deeded the property tothe county for the sum of $50.Description/Natural Features:This is a forest tract which has not been developed for anyactive recreational uses. Access to much of the site is difficultdue to topography, brush and downed trees. This is anauthentic old-growth forest site. The property contains avariety of large trees including:• Western hemlock180-200 years old• Douglas fir400-500 years old• Western red cedar400-500 years old• Pacific silver or Grand Fir 200+ years oldA dense understory of western hemlock, about 30 years old,covers much of the site. Other species represented includeSitka spruce, red alder, red elderberry, salal, salmonberry andOregon grape. Invasive species, such as Scotch broom,English holly and evergreen blackberries, are also present onsite.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 83

A wide variety of fungus species are present includingimpressive conks growing on snags and downed trees. Avariety of birds are present, including pileated woodpeckers.There is evidence of deer, elk and beaver. Small ponds areused by newts and other amphibians.Cultural/Historical Significance:This site has been minimally impacted by humans. It offers aglimpse of what much of Clatsop County may have looked likeprior to the “tree farming” era.Geological Significance:Elevation ranges from 1150 feet to 1400 feet. There areseveral springs and small creeks which feed into theLittle North Fork of the Nehalem River. There are smallbeaver dams at the southeast corner of the property.Recreation Utilization:UndevelopedFacility Inventory:• Undeveloped• Location signs on both sides of Highway 26• Weyerhaeuser timber access road lies at the southeastcorner of this parcel. This road does not give goodaccess to most of this property, however. Across theravine northwest of the Weyerhaeuser road is an oldroadbed extending to a clearing about 400 feet from thehighway. This is blocked by numerous small downedtrees. This would require widening and otherimprovements were it to be put into use.Development History:Undeveloped84 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Management Opportunities/Challenges:• Access to this parcel may be a challenge to developmentof this property. There is limited parking on wideportions of highway shoulder.• Opportunities for hiking trail development throughoutsite to showcase significant trees. Because of steeptopography, providing ADA accessibility would bechallenging.• Interpretive signage could link Klootchy, David Douglasand Nehalem Parks. Signage could cover nature,history and economics of our forest environment.• Site is bisected by Highway 26 and on-grade roadcrossings are not feasible due to speed of traffic.• Development of a safe and secure parking area andaccess at this location will be challenging.Opportunities for a parking lot along the highway arelimited by slope, site distances and numerous springsin the area. Limited shoulder parking is available.ODOT right-of-way extends a significant distance fromthe roadway.• Visibility and acceleration and deceleration laneslacking.• Highway noise is fairly loud on most of this property.DAVID DOUGLAS PARKRecommendations &Comments:Operations and Maintenance• Complete a morethorough biologicalinventory, includingmapping of significanttrees.• Explore with ODOTfeasibility of developingparking facilities andvehicle access for thissite.Capital Improvements• Consider limited parkimprovements, including:‣ Primitive trails‣ Parking and accessutilizing old roadbedClatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 85

JOHN DAY COUNTY PARKLocation:Located on Hwy. 30 betweenmilepost 93-94, 4 miles east ofAstoriaMap: 8N 9W Section 13 – #800,#1500, #1600, #1700, #1800Size:58 acresOwnership Status: CountyLand-use zone:Recreation Management (RM)Aquatic Natural (AN)Classification:Special Use, GatewayHistory:This park is near the site where the Lewis and Clark expeditioncamped overnight on November 26, 1805, while in route totheir winter camp and Fort Clatsop. This site was declared aCounty Park and Recreation Area in 1962 and since that timemultiple improvements have been made to the site, includinga two lane concrete boat ramp, paved parking and a restroomfacility. This is a heavily used site, with plans to expand theparking area being currently considered.Acquisition by County:This popular boat ramp site was formed from variousproperties gained by the county through tax foreclosuresduring the years 1928 through 1940. Each of the fiveproperties that comprise the John Day Boat Ramp Facility wasacquired through tax foreclosure. Tax lot 800 (54.0 acres)was acquired in 1936, Tax lot 1500 (1.4 acres) was acquiredin 1932, Tax lot 1600 (0.80 acres) was acquired in 1936, Taxlot 1700 (0.40 acres) was acquired in 1928, and Tax lot 1800(1.4 acres) was acquired in 1940.Description/Natural Features:The John Day County Park is a 58-acre site with river frontageproviding access to the John Day River and the lowerColumbia River for general boating, fishing and hunting.86 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

The John Day Boat Ramp is adjacent to the Lewis andClark National Wildlife Refuge with frontage on the JohnDay River. The undeveloped portion of this site consists oflarge diverse freshwater wetlands with varied plantspecies.Cultural/Historical Significance:The John Day River was named after John Day, a hunterand voyager who was an employee of The Northern FurCompany in 1812. He crossed the plains along with hisemployer Mr. Crook and the first voyagers. He was afavorite among his peers and all who met him. Day leftFort Astoria in June of 1812 with a small party to carrydispatches to New York. He became seriously ill a coupleof days into their journey and his companionscommissioned Indians to return him to Fort Astoria, wherehe died shortly thereafter.Two rivers in the state are named after him: the John DayRiver in eastern Oregon, which starts in the Blue Mountainsand empties into the Columbia 40 miles above The Dalles, andthe John Day River in Clatsop County, near Astoria.Geological Significance:n/aRecreation Utilization:This is an established, heavily used boat ramp that providesaccess to the John Day River and the lower Columbia River forgeneral boating, fishing and hunting. The existing parking lotis filled to near-capacity during periods of peak summer use.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 87

Facility Inventory:• A two-lane concrete plank boat ramp with transientdocks giving access to the John Day River and theColumbia River• Paved parking for 58 vehicles with trailers and sixadditional 15-minute, single-vehicle parking spacesnear the restroom structure• Restroom with two flush restrooms and drinkingfountain• Fee collection site• One garbage receptacle• One picnic tableJOHN DAY COUNTY PARKRecommendations &Comments:Operations and Maintenance• The Oregon State MarineBoard is currentlyplanning to expandparking at this heavilyused boat ramp facilityand construction will becompleted by next year(2006).• Review the costs andrevenue benefits ofdeveloping selfcontainedovernightcamping at this site.Development History:• (2002) Fish sculpture installed near entryway• (1996) Grant: funded launch slip dredging of 4,123 CYfor a cost of $58,500• (1996) Landscape upgrade project completed atentryway• (1995) Grant: Reconstructed boat launch facilities andadded fee collection site• (1988) Boat ramp improvements and bathrooms• (1979) Dredging and bank protection improvements• (1962) Park designation: John Day Park andRecreational AreaManagement Opportunities/Challenges:• Parking is at capacity and vehicles are parking on US 30.• The highway approach onto US 30 has limitedsite/distance visibility due to road grades and curves.Safety could be improved with the addition of aneastbound left-turn refuge and a westbound shoulderacceleration lane. The county may propose these changesto ODOT.88 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Klootchy Creek County ParkLocation:Located north of Hwy. 26 atmilepost twoMap: T5N, R10W, Section 14, #50Size:25 total acresOwnership Status: County ownedLand-use zone:Recreation Management (RM)Classification:Shared-use, GatewayHistory:Klootchy Creek Park has been in existence since the 1940s when itwas under private ownership. Crown Zellerbach Corporationdeveloped the park as a campground and picnic area to takeadvantage of the “Big Spruce Tree” and access to the NecanicumRiver for a boat launch site and for fishing. Campsites, restroomfacilities, water and garbage receptacles were available for visitors.When Crown Zellerbach was sold to a foreign investor in 1986, thenew company became Cavenham Forest Industries. KlootchyCreek Park soon became surplus property and Cavenham sold theland to the county.Acquisition by County:Clatsop County purchased four parcels of land, known asKlootchy Creek Park, and totaling 25 acres, from CavenhamForest Industries on August 12, 1988. Purchase price was$36,700. At the time of purchase, the park had 19 campsites,nine picnic tables, 13 fireplaces and four outdoor toilets. Thisbecame TL 501.To enhance the size of the park, Clatsop County purchased16.33 acres from the Carl W. Salser Trust on July 8, 1996 for$80,000. This is TL 400 in Section 11 and TL 1700 in Section14. It is unclear if a Resolution and Order has been given tothis property by the Board to declare this as a county park.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 89

Description/Natural Features:The park area is composed of a remnant coastal temperaterainforest. The largest Sitka spruce tree in Oregon and theU.S., as registered by American Forests’ National Register ofBig Trees, is located in the park:• Species: Picea Sitchensis• Circumference: 56’• Height: 206’• Crown Spread: 93’• Age: 750+ yearsIn 1997, the Heritage Tree Committee, Oregon Travel Council,dedicated this tree as the state’s first Tree Site.Cultural/Historical Significance:The largest Sitka spruce tree in Oregon.Geological Significance:The park area is located along the Necanicum River flood plainand does partially flood in the winter during periods of veryhigh tides and heavy storms.Recreation Utilization:This is a popular day-use facility located north of Highway 26.The main attraction at this site is the Big Spruce Tree, trailsand the observation platform. Picnicking is available. Thereare approximately 3,000 linear feet of river frontage along theNecanicum River for fishing. There is a small boat launch sitefor non-motorized boats.Facility Inventory:• Observation platform• Garbage receptacle• Four chemical toilets• Rock and log barricades to restrict vehicle parking• A 75’ long concrete and steel stringer bridge over theNecanicum River from Highway 26 to the park• A five-foot fence line along the east side of the park,between County and Weyerhaeuser Company property• Two picnic tables90 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Development History:• (1997) $55,000 grant offered from ODFW and USFWSfor $100,000 to construct a flush restroom. Wasoriginally approved by the county, but was declined bythe subsequent board.• (1995) construction of an ADA compatible observationdeck around the Big Spruce to protect the ground androots at the base of the tree. The cost was $52,500.• (1991) Master plan completed.Management Opportunities/Challenges:• Potential Clatsop County Welcome/Visitors Center or a“gateway park” concept.• Seasonal interpretive/information personnel, or camphost.• Road surface in the park is crushed rock, and needsperiodic maintenance.• Weyerhaeuser has a permanent easement for roadaccess from Hwy. 26 through the park to reach theirNecanicum mainline hauling road east of the park. Thismainline road is the eastern boundary of the park.• There is a Weyerhaeuser maintained gate on the eastside of the parking lot to control public vehicle accessonto company property.• The condition of the Big Spruce Tree and other overmaturewestern hemlock and red alder trees needs to beassessed for safety reasons. Danger trees and snagsneed to be removed when deemed necessary.• Invasive plant species, e.g., Japanese knotweed, havebeen spotted along the Necanicum River bank within thepark’s boundary.KLOOTCHY CREEK PARKRecommendations &Comments:Operations and Maintenance• Continue the Adopt-A-Parkprogram. In November2001, and most recently in2005, WeyerhaeuserCompany has entered intoan agreement with ClatsopCounty as part of thisprogram. Weyerhaeuserhas done park clean-ups,trail maintenance andfence brushing, and hascooperated with thecounty in roadmaintenance projectsthrough the parking lot.• Monitor health of Big Treeand manage invasive plantmaterials.• Designate the 16.33 acresfrom the Salser purchaseto park status and developthe 16.33 acres of theSalser purchase withnature trails, primitivecampsites and fishingaccess down to the river.• Consider transition to aState Wayside.• Consider designating entryroad and bridge as“County” road to bring intoroad maintenancejurisdiction.Capital Improvements• Consider parkimprovements, including:‣ Fee collection system‣ Expanded trail systemwith interpretivesignage‣ Improved boat rampfacility‣ Improved restroomfacilities‣ Car and tent campingClatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 91

LEE WOODEN/FISHHAWK FALLS PARKLocation: Located on Hwy. 202 at milepost 25, 5miles west of JewellMap: 6N 7W Section 32 – #100, #200, #300Size:47.15 acresOwnership Status: CountyLand-use zone: Open Space Parks and Rec. (OPR)Classification: Natural AreaHistory:n/aAcquisition by County:This property was acquired by the county in 1962 throughproperty tax foreclosure. It was named after Lee Wooden, ahomesteader from the Jewell area.Description/Natural Features:A rural day use park that features a maintained trail from a parkingarea near Fishhawk Creek to the base of Fishhawk Falls, andapproximately 2000 feet of frontage on Fishhawk Creek. Anabandoned stone road in the southeast corner leads to a naturalmeadow area. A stone quarry, located on the southwest section ofthe property, is currently used by the County Road Department.Lee Wooden Park is truly one of the hidden jewels in the county parksystem.92 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Cultural/Historical Significance:Area residents have used the meadow area in the past forweddings and Boy Scout campouts.Geological Significance:The stacked basalt columns of a dike exposed at FishhawkFalls is identical to Columbia River basalt further east. Thisbasalt flow, like those at Otter Rock and Hug Point, ranksamong the longest on earth, i.e., 300 miles from easternOregon and Washington.Recreation Utilization:The falls are the main attraction for day visitors. There has beensome unauthorized primitive camping.Facility Inventory:• Two picnic tables• Primitive trail with bridge• Informal parking areaDevelopment History:• Cantilever bridge installed along low point on footpath– late 90s.• Footpath from parking area to base of falls – early 90s.• Gravel road off Hwy. 202 (NE corner) is not maintainedand is partially overgrown, as is the meadow area.Management Opportunities/Challenges:• Current design and location of parking area is resultingin stream bank erosion.• Determine the “life expectancy” of the stone quarry,i.e., how much more rock can be extracted before theintegrity of the hill visible from the falls iscompromised.• Determine compatibility of surface mining (quarryactivities) with current OPR land use zone.LEE WOODEN/FISHHAWK FALLS PARKRecommendations &Comments:Operations and Maintenance• Explore Jewell School’sinterest in “adopting” LeeWooden Park for scientificlearning and communityservice.• Build volunteer network tomanage restoration andconstruction of trails andrestoration of degradedareas, includingdeactivated road andparking areas.• Discourage negativeactivities by engaging localyouth, increasing overallpublic awareness of park,and encouragingstewardship.• Review costs and revenuebenefits of utilizing specialuse permits for groupevents, picnics andovernight camping.Capital Improvements• Consider limited parkimprovements, including:‣ Reopened access roadat the east end of thepark and deactivatedand restored (to anatural state) westroad and currentparking area.‣ Expanded trail systemand viewing platform‣ Install vehicle entrygates at park entryroad and close park topublic during nighttimehours.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 93

NEHALEM COUNTY PARK (RED BLUFF)Location: Red Bluff Road off of Hwy. 26,between milepost 20-21, ElsieareaMap: 5N 7W Section 32 - #300Size:49.27 acresOwnership Status: CountyLand-use zone:Recreation Management (RM)Classification:Forest AreaHistory:Site was designated as park land in 1937 by County Board ofCommissioners for public benefit and preservation for futuregenerations.Acquisition by County:Property was held by the county through delinquent tax sales.Description/Natural Features:The tract is mostly an even-aged stand of 175 to 250-year-oldDouglas fir trees. Many specimens are four to five feet indiameter and approximately 190 feet tall. Density is notuniform. There are younger Douglas fir, red cedar, westernhemlock and spruce of mixed ages, and snags are present.The understory consists of red alder, big leaf maple, vinemaple, cascara, salmonberry, thimbleberry, huckleberry,elderberry, wild rose, ferns and Indian plum. The presence ofdevil's club in several locations indicates springs or wet areas.Numerous shade-tolerating wildflowers such as trilliums arepresent. A complete botanic inventory has not beencompleted.The site is near but not contiguous to the South Fork ofthe Nehalem River. The site is relatively flat with somedrop-off on the eastern side.94 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Cultural/Historical Significance:There are no known archaeological sites on this property,but attention should be paid to the possibility during anytrail building. This is one of the most significant, intactstands of Douglas fir in the county.Geological Significance:The site is near but not contiguous to the South Fork ofthe Nehalem River. The site is relatively flat with somedrop-off on the eastern side.Recreation Utilization:NoneFacility Inventory:• Undeveloped• U.S. Highway 26 runs through the bottom third of thisparcel.• Elsie Cemetery Road runs along the southern edge ofthe parcel.• Red Bluff County Road runs diagonally through thenorthern portion of the parcel.Development History:UndevelopedManagement Opportunities/Challenges:• Off-road vehicle users have built a trail around theWeyerhaeuser gate to gain access to their property.• An adjoining property owner has cut trees fromcounty property. This is not a visually attractiveproperty to have next to a county park.• Some invasive species such as Scotch broom andevergreen blackberries are present, especiallyalong the south side of the property.• Since this is a populated area a very long distancefrom a garbage transfer station, illegal dumping isa risk for any development.• There are two very wide spots on Red BluffCounty Road which could accommodate parking.NEHALEM COUNTY PARK(RED BLUFF)Recommendations &Comments:Operations and Maintenance• Local residents should beconsulted on what, if anyimprovements are to bemade to this parcel and toseek local volunteers tohelp with maintenance.• The property is flat enoughthat handicapped accessshould be feasible.• Access onto Highway 26 ishazardous because of poorvisibility. Trails crossingthe highway are notfeasible.• Complete a more thoroughbiological inventory of thissite.Capital Improvements• Consider limited parkimprovements, including:‣ Primitive park areasand interpretive trailsin the south part of theproperty‣ Primitive trails‣ Explore with ODOT thefeasibility ofdeveloping parkingfacilities and vehicleaccess for this site.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 95

NORTH FORK NEHALEM COUNTY PARKLocation:Located between milepost 7-8 onHwy. 53, next to the North ForkFish HatcheryMap: 4N 9W Section 22 – #1100Size:2.8 acresOwnership Status: CountyLand-use zone:Open Space Parks and Rec.(OPR)Classification:Natural AreaHistory:n/aAcquisition by County:n/aDescription/Natural Features:This is an undeveloped, isolated property that includes 300linear feet of stream access and is adjacent to the state fishhatchery. There is fishing access on the north boundary ofthe North Fork Nehalem River.Cultural/Historical Significance:n/aGeological Significance:Located along the North Fork Nehalem RiverRecreation Utilization:This site provides bank fishing access for steelhead and troutfishermen.Facility Inventory:• Informal parking for approximately 12 vehicles• Paved fishing access path leads to river• Mature Douglas fir and spruce with lush vegetativeunderstory96 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Development History:UndevelopedManagement Opportunities/Challenges:• The site is not suitable for boat launch due todownstream weirs and obstacles.• Public parking at site for stream access.• Potential day-use facility with dispersed picnic sites andconnecting trail with fishing access, interpretive sitewith associated instructional signage for picnicking.NORTH FORK NEHALEMCOUNTY PARKRecommendations &Comments:Operations and Maintenance• Due to its locationadjoining state lands,the county shouldpursue a partnershiparrangement withOregon Department ofFish and Wildlife,including sale or trade ofland, or development oflimited day-use facilities.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 97

SIGFRIDSON COUNTY PARKLocation:Located on Hwy 202 at milepost11, Olney AreaMap: 7N 8W Section 18 – #3100Size:64.43 AcresOwnership Status: CountyLand-use zone:Open Space Parks and Rec(OPR)Classification:Natural AreaHistory:In 1969, the community based “Save Klaskanine” group beganseeking financial donations to purchase an option on 72 acresof land known as the Sigfridson Farm. The “Save Klaskanine”group recognized the rare opportunity to purchase nearly3,000 linear feet of river frontage to maintain public accessand high quality fishing opportunities for county residents andvisitors. By the middle of 1969, the group had raised nearly$300 of the $700 cost for the option, and the county and theGame Commission were solicited for financial assistance. Bythe end of the year, Clatsop County purchased the propertyfor park purposes. A science class at Star of the Sea Schoolin Astoria has adopted this park (see Appendix P).In the mid-1980s, the county leased 5.7 acres of the park,including the residence and farm buildings. A subsequent landsale of the leased parcel reduced the park from its original 72acres to its current 64 acres98 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Acquisition by County:According to county record, the property was purchased inDecember 1969 as park land by the county for $45,000.Description/Natural Features:This county property provides stream bank access tofishermen along a stretch of the North Fork Klaskanine Riverdownstream from the state fish hatchery.Cultural/Historical Significance:n/aGeological Significance:n/aRecreation Utilization:This is a heavily used public fishing area during the wintersteelhead season and also used by summer trout fishermen.This park is just downstream from an active fish hatchery andis known locally for fantastic fishing. The site receives lightusage as a day-use picnic area during the summer months.Facility Inventory:• Informal parking area• Primitive trailsDevelopment History:UndevelopedManagement Opportunities/Challenges:• Day-use facilities could be upgraded to increasesummer recreational use.• Invasive vegetation exists on site.• Primitive trails and erosion.• Southern section of site may have value for sale or treeharvest.• Portions of the park land, including a large openmeadow, are inaccessible because of no river crossing.SIGFRIDSON COUNTYPARKRecommendations &Comments:Operations and Maintenance• Maintain park propertyfor public fishing accessand day-use area.• Prepare master plan forsite.• Address knotweed andother invasive vegetationin partnership with thelocal watershed council.• Review the costs andrevenue benefits ofdeveloping primitiveovernight camping atthis site, including lowimpact tent campingsouth of the river.Capital Improvements• Consider parkimprovements, including:‣ Pedestrian/maintenancebridge toaccess propertysouth of river.‣ Expanded foot trailsystem, includingspurs to river edge.‣ Improved entry andregulation signage.‣ Day-use facilities,including parkingand vault toilet.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 99

SMITH LAKE COUNTY PARKLocation:Smith Lake/Ridge Road, west ofWarrentonMap: 8N 10W Section 33 – #1300,#1400, #1600Size:2.56 acresOwnership Status: CountyLand-use zone:1400 & 1600: Lakes andWetlands (LW) 1300: SingleFamily Residential (SFR-1)All three parcels are subject toBDO zoning overlay (Beachesand Dunes Overlay)Classification:Natural AreaHistory:Designated as a county park June 14, 1995.Acquisition by County:Lots 1300 (1.18 acres) and 1400 (1.24 acres) were acquiredby the county in a tax foreclosure on 8/7/36. Lot 1600 (.14acres) was acquired in a tax foreclosure on 4/23/80.Description/Natural Features:Waterfront parcel providing potential public access to denselyvegetated Smith Lake and unique Sitka spruce wetlands.Cultural/Historical Significance:n/aGeological Significance:Lake located within the dunes west of Warrenton with uniqueSitka spruce wetlands.Recreation Utilization:UndevelopedFacility Inventory:100 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

UndevelopedDevelopment History:UndevelopedManagement Opportunities/Challenges:• Public access to Smith Lake and Sitka spruce wetlands• Lake is nearly non-navigable due to dense aquaticvegetation• Dune management and onsite wetlands• Potential interpretive site• Potential non-motorized watercraft launch siteSMITH LAKE COUNTYPARKRecommendations &Comments:Operations and Maintenance• Prepare master plan forsite.Capital Improvements• Consider limited parkimprovements, including:‣ Nature trail‣ Interpretive signage‣ Boardwalks andwetland observationareasClatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 101

WESTPORT BOAT RAMPLocation:Westport Ferry Road, ½ milenorth of Hwy. 30, betweenmilepost 70-71 on Hwy. 30,Westport areaMap: 8N 6W Section 36 – #408Size:27 acresOwnership Status: LeasedLand-use zone:Lakes and Wetlands (LW)Heavy Industrial (HI)Classification:Special UseHistory:This site was developed as a large mill site in 1910 andoperated until its closing in 1956 due to the low supply oflarge logs. The mill then burned down in 1957. The site wasleft and slowly has overgrown with plant life to its presentstate. Wood storage areas, docks and railroad loading areaswere planked and some of the piers that supported the dockare still visible in the north section of property along theslough and Plympton creek.Acquisition by County:The county obtained an easement in 1972 to operate theexisting boat dock/ramp and parking lot to provide publicaccess to the Columbia River.The county is currently working on a land donation agreementwith Georgia-Pacific for the donation of this 27-acre site.There are concerns with contaminated soil around the old millsite as noted from site surveys completed by a hiredcontractor for the county. This land donation is on hold untilthese issues have been addressed. Site is currently leased.Description/Natural Features:This 27-acre site located in the town of Westport on theeastern edge of the county provides access to the WestportSlough that is a tributary of the Columbia River. The site102 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

consists of a two-lane improved boat ramp, graveled parkinglot, and one chemical toilet. This site provides access to theColumbia River for boaters, fishermen and hunters. The site islocated on the eastern end of the Lewis and Clark WildlifeRefuge. It is primarily a wooded property next to the sloughthat offers access to the river as well as a place for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Plympton Creek is a smallcreek that runs through the western edge of the property andprovides an excellent fall Chinook fishery to the localpopulation and visitors to the area.Cultural/Historical Significance:Site of Westport Mill from 1910-1957.Geological Significance:n/aRecreation Utilization:Site is currently used for access by boaters, non-motorizedboaters, fishermen and hunters to the Columbia River.Limited fishing occurs on Plympton Creek as it runs throughthe western edge of the site.Facility Inventory:• Two-lane boat ramp to Westport Slough• Gravel parking lot• Chemical toilet• Stream bank access to Plympton CreekDevelopment History:• (February 2004) Improvements to the boat ramp byinstallation of more base rock on the boat ramp forcost of $11,985.WESTPORT BOAT RAMPRecommendations &Comments:Operations and Maintenance• Complete landacquisition.• Complete remediationand clean-up agreementwith Georgia-PacificCompany.• Complete site masterplan.• Review the costs andrevenue benefits ofovernight camping atthis site.Capital Improvements• Consider parkimprovements, including:‣ Day-use fee site‣ Improved ramp andtransient docks‣ Improved parkingareas‣ Vault toilets‣ ADA fishing accessand platforms‣ Expanded naturetrailsManagement Opportunities/Challenges:• Property acquisition issues with Georgia-PacificCompany.• Site remediation and clean-up.• Potential “gateway park” status for Clatsop County.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 103

County-Owned Recreation SitesPages 105-110 provide a detailed description of the county’ssix recreational sites, their location and size. Two of thesesites – Camp Cullaby and Camp Kiwanilong – are leased by thecounty to organizations that provide camping experiences foryouth; a third site is leased to the Lower Columbia YouthSoccer Association. The fourth, the Twilight Eagle Sanctuary,is on county-owned land, but is managed by the Oregon BaldEagle Foundation.The other two sites, DeLaura Beach and the Lewis and Clarkboat ramp, are well known and heavily used recreational sitesthat have not been given official park status.The DeLaura site, covering 164 acres of land along the ocean,has important historical, recreational and ecological values.The North Coast Chapter of Oregon Equestrian Trails, astatewide service organization, has adopted the DeLauraBeach property. Its members provide ongoing trailmaintenance and garbage removal on the property.104 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

CAMP CULLABY (CAMP ROYCE-FINEL)Location:Across from Carnahan Lake Park,Cullaby Lake Lane, ½ mile east ofHwy. 101 between milepost 13-14,south of WarrentonMap: 7N 10W Section 15 – #101, #100Size: 61.60Ownership Status: Leased to Boy Scouts of America(BSA)Land-use zone: Open Space Parks and Rec (OPR)Classification: LeasedDescription/Natural Features:Semi-primitive overnight camp located on Cullaby Lake acrossfrom Carnahan County Park. BSA refer to this site as CampRoyce-Finel.Recreation Utilization:Leased for private seasonal use.Development History:• Primitive site development to accommodate limiteduses.• BSA and County partnered on the development of apotable water system.CAMP CULLABYRecommendations &Comments:Operations and Maintenance• Review lease terms withBSA at expiration ofexisting lease.• Develop long term leasewith BSA or preparemaster plan for site uponexpiration of lease.Management Opportunities/Challenges:• No county-approved master plan or management planfor future uses.• Ten-year lease signed with Boy Scouts of America inSeptember 2002 for a cost of $1 per year.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 105

CAMP KIWANILONGLocation:West of Ridge Road, north of DeLauraBeach Road, Warrenton areaMap: 8N 10W Section 20 - #1710Size:190.57 acresOwnership Status: Leased to Camp K BoardLand-use zone: Recreation Management (RM)Classification: Share-use, LeasedDescription/Natural Features:Day-use and overnight camping, cabins and meeting facilities,leased to non-profit management. The camp is located incoastal dunes east of DeLaura Beach and includes severalsmall lakes.CAMP KIWANILONGRecommendations &Comments:Operations and Maintenance• RLPAC be asked toreview the Camp’sannual and 5-yearreports.Cultural/Historical Significance:Contains tree arboretum where the U.S. Soil ConservationService conducted dune stabilization testing. The Camp Boardsigned a 99-year lease with the county in January 2004. TheCamp Board is to present a plan for improvements,maintenance and programming of the camp to the countyevery five years. In addition, the Camp is to provide anannual report. See Appendix Q for article about camp’s 70 thanniversary.Recreation Utilization:Camping facility for large groups and is heavily used duringsummer.Facility Inventory:• Camping and Cabins• Lodge facilitiesManagement Opportunities/Challenges:• No county-approved master plan or management planfor future uses.• Review trail connection opportunities with DeLauraBeach and Fort Stevens.106 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

DELAURA BEACHLocationEnd of DeLaura Beach Road, 2 mileswest of Hwy. 101, southwest ofWarrentonMap 8N 10W Section 30 – #300Size164.48 acresOwnership Status: County-owned recreation lands siteLand-use zone: Recreation Management (RM)Classification: Natural AreaHistory:In 1935, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) plantedbeach pine, Scotch broom and European beach grass andinstalled fences to stop the movement of sand which wasencroaching on lakes and pastures. The development of theWarrenton Dune Soil and Water Conservation District in1941 continued the CCC efforts. The stabilization of thedunes significantly altered the landscape and made possiblethe development of Fort Stevens State Park.Acquisition by County:Beginning in 1932, a variety of land purchases and tradesoccurred, resulting in the acquisition of DeLaura Beach.Description/Natural Features:This 164-acre county-owned recreation land provides oceanaccess and dune recreation opportunities for pedestrians,equestrians and bicycles. This landscape consists of sand,beach grasses, wetlands, pioneer plant species and pine andspruce forests.Geological Significance:Relatively young landscape is created by the Columbia Riversouth jetty and dune stabilization efforts. This area includesan active sand fore dune running parallel to the PacificOcean, an interdunal valley that is seasonally flooded, aninland stabilized sand dune, and localized wetlands andforests.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 107

Cultural/Historical Significance:In 1882, a British ship – the “Cairnsmore” – beached on theClatsop Spit. The ship lies on county-owned land and is buriedunder the sand. The ship was visible as late as 1914 beforebeing completely covered by moving sand dunes. Theconstruction of the south jetty at the mouth of the ColumbiaRiver caused the shoreline to move several hundred yardswest. The area where the Cairnsmore beached is now a forestof shore pine and spruce.In 1942, an artillery shell fired from a Japanese submarinelanded near DeLaura Beach Road. A monument was erectedat this location.Recreation Utilization:Currently, any recreational use taking place in the DeLauraBeach area is dispersed and not managed. There are nofacilities or developments. DeLaura Beach Road does provideaccess to the beach; however, the beach is only accessible byhigh clearance vehicles.Current recreational uses include hiking, horseback riding,bicycling, mushroom picking, paintball and beach activities.Fort Stevens State Park is the main supplier of designatedrecreational opportunities in the coastal dune land and shorepine settings. While these areas will continue to supplydesignated recreational facilities, there is a lack of free or lowcost primitive recreational areas near the coast.Facility Inventory:• Undeveloped• Extensive primitive and equestrian trail systemconnects with trails in Fort Stevens State Park andCamp Kiwanilong.Development History:• (1995) Master plan completed.• (1991) Road improvements to reroute road andimprove surface.108 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Management Opportunities/Challenges:• Large undeveloped ocean front dune landscape.• High quantities of wetlands.• This area receives extensive use of the trail system bylocal horseback riders and many from out of the area.For the past nine years the local Oregon EquestrianTrails Chapter has held a Poker Ride that bringsapproximately 300 riders and horses to use thesetrails.• Most of these trails are maintained by local equestrianswho also spend many hours every year cleaning upgarbage in the area.• Adjacent to Fort Stevens, Camp Rilea and CampKiwanilong.• Nuisance activities including dumping and vandalism.• High impact vehicular activities damaging fragile dunesand wetlands.DELAURA BEACHRecommendations &Comments:Operations and Maintenance• Update master plan.• Clarify boundaries of thissite.• Designate site as a“county park.”Capital Improvements• Consider limited parkimprovements, including:‣ Developed horsetrailer parkingfacilities at the southend of Burma Road.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 109

LEWIS & CLARK RIVER BOAT RAMPLocation:South of Netel Bridge, betweenLogan Road and Lewis & ClarkRiver.Map: 7N 10W Section 12 - #900Size:2.8 acresOwnership Status: State License to operate a boatramp on submersible lands ofthe Lewis and Clark River.Land-use Zone:Zoned AC-2Classification:Special UseAcquisition by County:Per a 1996 Oregon Department of State Lands license, thecounty has permission to operate a boat ramp on thesubmersible lands of the Lewis and Clark River.LEWIS & CLARK RIVERBOAT RAMPRecommendations &Comments:Operations and Maintenance• Acquire or secure use ofuplands between roadand submersible lands.Capital Improvements• Potential OSMB grantDescription/Natural Features:Public boat ramp on the Lewis and Clark River.Facility Inventory:• Boat launch ramp• Primitive parking areaDevelopment History:• (1997) Boat launch ramp constructedManagement Opportunities/Challenges:• The current license is for a boat ramp only.• The county does not have a written deed orother document giving it an interest in theuplands between the road and the submersibleland.• Improvements to the uplands will requireacquisition, easement or long-term lease fromthe land owners.• Potential OSMB grant site110 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

TWILIGHT CREEK EAGLE SANCTUARYLocation:On Highway 30 east of Astoriabetween milepost 87-88. Turn Northonto Burnside Loop Road and go .5miles to viewing platformMap: 8N 8W Section 20 – 2000Size:15.3 acresOwnership Status: CountyLand-use zone: Recreational management, AquaticNaturalClassification: Special UseHistory:The purpose of the Twilight Eagle Sanctuary was to protectthe area from eminent logging and future development. Thiseffort was to provide habitat for use by the Twilight Creekeagles, including use by other wintering eagles and eaglesfrom the Mary’s Creek roost.Acquisition by County:Land was purchased in 1990 from Cavenham Forest Industriesfor the purpose of the Twilight Eagle Sanctuary. The fundingwas from the North Coast Land Conservancy and the OregonEagle Foundation through fundraising events and grants.Description/Natural Features:This site has a viewing platform located along Burnside LoopRoad that views Twilight Creek Eagle Sanctuary. Theviewpoint is located east of the actual sanctuary where youcan view tidal marshes, open water and islands, and viewhundreds of plant and animal species and thousands ofwaterfowl in the winter. The Twilight Eagle Sanctuary consistsof 15.3 acres of upland forested area with wetland edges.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 111

Twilight Creek EagleSanctuaryRecommendations &Comments:Operations and Maintenance• Establish a managementplan to provide minimumlevel of maintenance,sanitation and security.Capital Improvements• Consider parkimprovements, including:‣ Permanent vehiclebarriers and/orimproved parkingarea.‣ Updating of theinterpretive signs.‣ Enhanced ADAaccessibilityincluding parkingand platform.Recreation Utilization:Bird watchers and sightseers use this site to observe the baldeagles and many other species of birds, wildlife and thebeauty of the lower Columbia River estuary.Facility Inventory:This site consists of one viewing platform with interpretivesigns located along Burnside Loop Road east of the 15.3 acres.Development History:The viewing platform was constructed in 1990.Management Opportunities/Challenges:• Ongoing maintenance around viewing platform.LOWER COLUMBIA YOUTH SOCCER FIELDSLocation:East of DeLaura Beach andCamp Kiwanilong, 2 miles westof Hwy. 101, southwest ofWarrentonMap: 8N 10W Section 20Size:3.8 acresOwnership Status: Leased to Lower Columbia YouthSoccer AssociationLand-use Zone: R-10Classification:Special Use, LeasedSummary:The Lower Columbia Youth Soccer Association signed a 10-year lease with the county on October 1, 2003. The leaserequires an annual report regarding the use of the propertythe previous year.112 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Other County-Owned Actual or PotentialRecreational SitesThe Task Force collaborated with the county’s propertymanagement specialist to determine if other county-ownedland is currently being used for recreation or has the potentialto be designated and developed for this purpose. Sites in thiscategory are shown below and on the next two pages withtheir management recommendation.Following are the parcels identified that provide water accessand the disposition recommended by the Task Force:Table 24– Undeveloped County-Owned Water AccessSitesSITEKnappa dockWalluski Riverboat accessRodney Roadparcels on theSkipanon RiverTansy CreekparcelFort StevensparcelSkipanonPeninsulaRECOMMENDATIONDevelop a plan for improvement; designateas a county park.Develop as a non-motorized boat site;designate as a county park.Natural wetlands deserving of protection.Explore feasibility of a small floating dockat the Perkins Road bridge, about 0.5 milesdown the road.Need to clarify ownership of this vacatedroad and determine future development tooccur on adjacent property beforedisposition is decided.The state may have interest in buying ortrading this 72.3-acre parcel of county landon the ocean within Fort Stevens.Hold for future development or wetlandmitigation projectSee Appendix T for additional information relating to eachcounty-owned actual or potential recreation sites.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 113

The following three sites have trails that are either currentlybeing used for recreation by Clatsop County residents, or havepotential for this use:• Claremont Road: This site, next to ODF’s Claremont parcelshould be retained an interpretive/educational site. [Note:ODF’s Claremont parcel is part of the G & N LandExchange – currently held up because of an appeal inState Court.]• North of County Public Works: Approach Astoria MiddleSchool about renewing agreement for nature trails.Depending on the future location of Public Works, site mayhave significantly increased value in the future.• Williamsport Road Parcels: See below.See Appendix U for additional information regarding theseparcels.Williamsport Road parcels> Williamsport Road –Groups #1 and #2Recommendation:Negotiate a sale to CityParks or a conservancygroup that would havedeed restrictions to protectthese areas for futuregenerations. Any funds orproceeds should bedesignated to the Park andLand Acquisition andMaintenance Fund.Williamsport Road –Group #3Recommendation:The area west ofWilliamsport Road shouldbe evaluated for other use.Group #3 east of the roadshould be evaluated forsale.This complex set of Williamsport Road parcels owned byClatsop County, near the Astoria Column and WilliamsportRoad, requires careful consideration. The Task Force hasdivided them into the following groups:• Groups #1 and #2 total 187 acres. They are locatedon both sides of Williamsport Road and include parcelseast of the Astoria Column and north of the city’s highpressurewater reservoir. These properties are lacedwith user-created trails (Appendix H-6) that windthrough a mature forest.• Group #3 parcels total eight acres. They are locatedbelow the waste disposal and recycle center on bothsides of Williamsport Road. The area west ofWilliamsport Road has recently had some residentialdevelopment. The area east of the road is very lowand swampy.114 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Camping FacilitiesCar camping with a tent and RV/trailer camping are popularactivities, ranked 10th and 15th in our local survey. Moreover,tent camping ranked sixth and RV/trailer camping 12th whensurvey participants were asked the specific activities they areinterested in and want to know more about. Overnightcamping facilities are a primary requirement.At this time, the only camping facilities on county-owned landare the two leased youth camps; these are Camp Kiwanilongand Camp Cullaby. The county managed the Spruce RunCampground under a lease agreement until 2002. This facilityis now managed by ODF as Henry Rierson Spruce RunCampground. Clatsop County Parks may allow overnight selfcontainedRV/trailer camping at John Day Park in 2006.“I love to tent camp,but sometimes certainparks are too crowded,or they do not haveenough open area.”Survey respondentAstoriaAugust, 2005The Task Force has identified the potential for camping atother county parks in the following priority order:• Westport*• Cullaby Lake• Big Creek• Klootchy Creek• Sigfridson• Lee Wooden/Fishhawk Falls> Recommendation:Clatsop County Parksand RLPAC begin todevelop a plan foradding camping facilitiesat each of the listedcounty parks.*The county is negotiating the acquisition.These projects should be developed by Clatsop County Parksin collaboration with the RLPAC. The sequence and priority ofdeveloping camping facilities will depend on multiple factorsincluding projected demand, availability of grant funds,staffing required and net impact on the Clatsop County Parksoperating budget. Without question, the work involved inplanning, seeking grants, designing, estimating revenue andexpenses for these facilities – as well as operating andmaintaining them – will require additional personnel. The“I would like to knowmore about tentcamping in lesspopulatedareas.Sometimes theamount of peopleis overwhelming. Idefinitely wouldcamp more at yourparks if I knew moresecluded areas.”Survey respondentAstoriaAugust, 2005Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 115

intention is to create facilities that generate revenue andaddress unmet public needs.Adjacent county park2005 camping fees at aglance …Columbia CountyDay use:$2 per motor vehicleCampsite with hookups:$18 per nightCampsite without hookups:$14 per nightBicyclist/hiker overnight:$5 per nightTillamook CountyDay use:$2 per motor vehicleDesignated campsite:$10-$20 per nightRV hookup site:$20-$25 per nightHiker/biker campsite:$5 per nightTillamook and Columbia counties have made a significantinvestment in camping facilities. Their fee structures areshown on charts in Appendix K (see sidebar for fees at aglance).> Land and Water Trails ProposalsThe Task Force recommends that the county, through thecreation of a Regional Recreation Council, support thefollowing efforts within its own sites as well as throughout thecounty:• Improve and link existing trails.• Create uniform user guidelines and consistentsignage.• Expand existing or create new trails.• Develop and maintain a database of approvedtrails.The primary means of developing these plans and proposalsamong landowners will be through the Regional RecreationCouncil (See Goal 5). We recommend that the countyspecifically support the need to:• Connect trails in the Clatsop State Forest withthose in the Tillamook State Forest.• Use the public right-of-way along the railroadtracks to extend Astoria’s Riverwalk both east andwest.• Connect Cullaby/Carnahan Parks to the Fort-to-SeaTrail.• Connect the County Fairground/ODF District Officearea with trials in the Astoria basin.• Establish a water trail from Klootchy Creek Park toSeaside.• Identify and improve both motorized and nonmotorizedboat launch sites.• Support development of the Lower Columbia WaterTrail (Appendix H-3).116 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

8 > PARK SYSTEM FINANCIAL ANALYSISBeginning with a brief financial history of Clatsop CountyParks, this analysis of the current situation reviews fundingmechanisms and programs that are now in use or available,and recommended ways to achieve stable funding and moreefficient management.> Park System Management and Financial HistoryIn 1992, when the last Recreational Lands Master Plan waswritten and approved, the county did not have a parksdepartment. As described on page 30 of the 1992 plan:Rather, the County Road Department oversees thecounty’s recreational land properties and expenditureof park funds. Road Department personnel andequipment are utilized to perform basic maintenancetasks. In the past five years, about $80,000 annuallyhas been appropriated in the county’s general fund forpark purposes. (1992 Plan)At that time, the plan called for the establishment of a countyparks system as soon as practical “in order to more effectivelymanage its recreation land properties and existing improvedsites.” The plan also sought:• A stable source of funding; and• Administrative staffing support for themanagement of county parks.A parks supervisor was hired in 1994 who reported to theDirector of Public Works. A second full-time position, a parksranger, was added in fiscal year 1996. During the summermonths, a few temporary personnel were employed to collectfees and assist with other duties.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 117

There were major improvements in the county parks duringthe 1990s due largely to the efforts of the staff and theirsuccess in obtaining $500,000 of grants. These grants,together with varying percentages of matching funds by thecounty, resulted in more than a half-dozen capitalimprovements. While much work remains, there is noquestion that these and other recent efforts have made a realdifference in the quality of the recreational experiencesenjoyed by the county’s residents and visitors.Beginning in fiscal year 1998, the financial history of thecounty parks operation can only be described as “difficult” forseveral reasons:• In 1997-98, under financial pressure, the Board ofCommissioners decided to eliminate the parks’operational account and transfer these expenses to theparks’ acquisition account. (At that time, the accounthad a balance of $263,000.) This action had the effectof eliminating all general fund support for parks and,eventually, led to the virtual elimination of any balancein the acquisition account.• In 1998, the Recreational Lands Planning AdvisoryCommittee was asked to prepare a report outlining thecost of closing the parks.• In March 1999, the Parks Budget Summary Sheetsubmitted for the 1999-2000 fiscal year contained thefollowing statement:This budget allows us to maintain the operation ofparks for one additional summer season, but afterthat the parks will effectively be out of operatingmoney and we will start the process to close theparks.• During the late 1990s, Parks was discouraged fromapplying for any new grants. This put a halt to anysignificant capital improvements.118 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

• In the spring of 2000, the Board of Commissionersapproved $64,000 from the general fund to keep theparks open.Because of the financial pressures, a concerted effort wasmade during the late 1990s to make the parks more selfsupportingby initiating or increasing park fees. In 2001 theannual revenue generated by Parks was $92,000, or almost50% of its expense budget of $186,500. However, when themanagement of Spruce Run Park was shifted to the AstoriaDistrict of ODF in 2002, the revenue from park fees droppedsignificantly.During the past few years, Parks has reported to the Directorof Central Services. Staffing consists of a full-time parksforeman and temporary summer help. The Park Lands andAcquisition Fund had an infusion of approximately $700,000 in2004 with the sale of Sunset Beach to State Parks. This fund isbeing used to provide matching funds for grants, some capitalexpenses and a proportion of operating expenses.> Current Budget ResourcesThis section discusses various funding mechanisms andprograms that are available or currently in use to support parkand recreation services and facilities. The section discusses:1) programs and resources currently used by the county; 2)selected grant programs; and 3) other potential resources.The parks budget for 2005-2006 is $154,500. Dedicated parksstaffing consists of a full-time parks foreman, two full-timeseasonal employees (April 1 thru September 30) and one halftimeseasonal employee (April 1 thru September 30). Inaddition, a part of the parks budget is utilized to support aportion of two full-time positions within the Central Servicesdepartment. In the 2005-2006 budget, $5,000 was allocatedfor a shared staff assistant and $8,100 was allocated for thedepartment director. This additional funding supports aportion of these two permanent county employees to coverservices relating to parks operations.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 119

Funding for the operations, development and maintenance ofcounty parks comes from six revenue and assistance sources.In addition, volunteers/partnerships and offender work crewshelp maintain the parks. This funding is applied throughoutthe system and may fluctuate between budget cycles due tovariable revenues from user fees, grants and state assistanceprograms. Current budget resources include the following:Table 25 – Current Budget ResourcesGeneral FundUser FeesPark & LandAcquisition &Maintenance FundThe general fund provides budget support for a variety ofcommunity programs and services. The general fund derivesrevenue from property taxes, timber revenue and other sources,and is susceptible to shortfalls that may require budgetreductions. The county has adopted implementing policies anda “resource reduction strategy” to help guide use of the fund.To accommodate the potential need for expenditure reductions,county budget policies emphasize conserving General Funddiscretionary revenues to fund high priority programs (e.g.,Public Safety and Justice). To the extent additionaldiscretionary resources are available, high-priority service areaswill be slated for growth and lower priority areas will receiveconstant or decreasing discretionary support.User fees are charges placed on facilities and programs to helpdefray the cost of operation, maintenance and other services.Clatsop County has implemented a system of user fees thatincludes day-use fees (Cullaby Lake, Carnahan and John DayBoat Launch), annual passes, facility reservations (Cullaby LakeShelter) and special events permits. The Board of CountyCommissioners has final authority to place or modify the feeprogram.This county-based fund provides dedicated monies for thedevelopment and operation of park and recreation sites. Thecounty established the fund in 2003-04, using the proceedsfrom the sale of the Sunset Beach property to State Parks forthe Lewis and Clark Trail from Fort Clatsop to the Pacific Ocean.This fund is intended for capital projects; however, in recentyears a portion of the account has been used to supplement thegeneral operating budget.120 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Table 25– Current Budget Resources, continuedCounty ParksAssistanceProgram (OPRD)MaintenanceAssistanceProgram (OMB)GrantsPartnerships andVolunteersThis program provides funds to Oregon counties, includingClatsop, for the acquisition, development, maintenance, careand use of county park and recreation areas. Funds are derivedfrom RV registration fees. The program distributes fundsannually to counties based on three factors: number ofcampsites managed by the county (50% of available revenue);number of RV registrations in the county (20%); and countypopulation (30%).This Oregon Marine Board (OMB) program provides funds tocounties and other eligible jurisdictions for the maintenance ofimproved public marine facilities. The program is intended tosupplement, not replace, existing local funds. Funds may beused for “routine and ordinary maintenance” of boating facilitiesincluding but not limited to boat ramps, docks, parking areasand restrooms, and may be used for garbage and litter pick up,grounds keeping and minor repairs of eligible facilities.Counties are eligible for a variety of public- and private-sectorgrants that support acquisition, development, rehabilitation,maintenance and management of park and recreation grounds,facilities and services. Generally, these programs provide fundson a matching basis, and include terms and conditions forreceiving and utilizing funds that are unique to each program.The next section of this chapter summarizes selected programs.An addendum provides expanded information about programpurpose, eligible and ineligible costs, funding capacity,evaluation criteria and related elements.Currently, the county’s Adopt-A-Park program providesopportunities for volunteers. Groups have “adopted” KlootchyCreek and Sigfridson Parks (see “Star of the Sea” article inAppendix P). The primary services involve litter pick-up and trailmaintenance, and groups visit sites about four times a year.Historically, groups such as the Boy Scouts have also providedsimilar services on an individual-event basis. Currently, theParks Department coordinates the Adopt-A-Park program andprovides necessary supervision. In addition, Clatsop Countyemploys a volunteer coordinator who helps organize volunteerefforts. Volunteers are asked to complete application forms andmust be at least 16 years old. The coordinator will interviewinterested persons to help identify areas of interest and toprovide the best work experience for the volunteer. Generally,volunteer programs supplement ongoing, maintenance andoperation activities or focus on specific improvement projects.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 121

Table 25 – Current Budget Resources, continuedOffender WorkCrewsThe use of work release and corrections work crews can providean important resource for park maintenance services.Currently, the Parks Department uses adult work crews severaltimes a year for tree removal, and also used the crews for thetrail improvement project at Cullaby Lake. The ParksDepartment also uses juvenile work crews for variousmaintenance activities; current levels of service equate to 45days of work from the crew. A foreman is provided to assistwith supervision and transportation.122 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Grant Funding OpportunitiesAnalysis of park system financing includes a review ofavailable grant funding opportunities. Clatsop County iseligible for a variety of acquisition, development, restorationand rehabilitation grants administered by state and federalprograms. Separate work sheets have been prepared formany programs to provide additional detail about programpurpose, eligible and ineligible costs, funding capacity, userestrictions, and project evaluation criteria. These work sheetsand detailed grant summaries can be found in Appendix M. Asummary list of granting agencies and available grantprograms follows:Table 26 – Available Grant ProgramsOregon State Parks andRecreation DepartmentOregon Marine BoardOregon Department of Fishand WildlifeOregon Department of LandConservation andDevelopmentOregon Department ofTransportationNational Fish and WildlifeFoundationATV Grant ProgramCounty OpportunityGrantsLand & WaterConservation FundLocal Government GrantsRecreational TrailsProgramFacility Grant ProgramRestoration andEnhancement Program306A ProgramTransportationEnhancement ProgramGeneral Matching GrantsColumbia River EstuarineCoastal FundFive-Star RestorationMatching GrantsOregon Governor’s Fundfor the EnvironmentClatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 123

Table 26 – Available Grant Programs, continuedOregon Watershed EnhancementBoardNorth American WetlandsConservation ActLower Columbia River EstuaryPartnership (LCREP)General GrantProgramSmall Grant ProgramStandard GrantsProgramSmall GrantsProgramHabitat RestorationProgramClatsop County has successfully demonstrated its ability toutilize grants to develop and rehabilitate park and recreationfacilities. Throughout the public involvement process, the useof grants was viewed favorably among communityparticipants. County staff should carefully consider grantrequirements and the associated maintenance implicationswhen evaluating potential grant funded projects. Werecommend the increased use of grants from state, federal,and private sources.124 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Other Mechanisms and ResourcesIn addition to current county general fund and grantresources, other potential public and private fundingmechanisms are available. These resources range fromincreased partnerships and donations to the creation of voterapproved taxing districts and dedicated revenue streams.Potential mechanisms and resources reviewed during thismaster plan process include:Table 27 – Other Mechanisms and ResourcesPrivate NonprofitDistrictsVoter-approved Bondsand TaxesDevelopment FeesOther OpportunitiesLand TrustsLand ConservanciesPark and Recreation DistrictsCounty Service DistrictsGeneral Obligation BondsRevenue BondsLocal Option TaxesSystems DevelopmentCharges (SDC)ODOT Highway FundPartnerships and VolunteersPrivate Grants, Donationsand GiftsRecommendation:Of the mechanismslisted in Table 27, werecommend that the greatestattention begiven to the followingfor stable, long-term,supplemental funding:During the planning process, other potential fundingmechanisms and resources were also evaluated. Thesesources are detailed in Appendix R. Community commentsnoted during public workshops and park surveys indicate lowsupport for additional county property taxes. Comments fromelected officials and Task Force members highlighted thedifficulty in proposing new property tax measures at this time.• Development fees.• Increased use ofpartnershipsand volunteers.• A restricted fund orfoundation.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 125

Financing Summary and RecommendationsDuring much of the past decade, the parks department hasbeen successful in obtaining grants for park improvements,including the necessary matching funds from the county.Providing stable funding support for the park department’soperating budget continues to be an ongoing challenge.Without a major increase in the county’s revenue stream, it isassumed that the level of support for the parks departmentfrom the general fund will not rise significantly above currentlevels. The parks department continues to operate within itscurrent resources as it seeks greater efficiency in itsoperations and searches for new funding mechanisms. Thechallenge in the coming decade will be to achieve theambitious goals outlined in this report, including making park’soperations increasingly self-sustaining, while working withinthese financial realities.We recommend that the county pursue a multi-facetedapproach, including:1. Leverage available funds by continuing to aggressivelypursue grants for capital improvements.2. Seek all means to maximize parks’ revenue.• Review user fees annually to ensure a level that isreasonable but does not undercut private facilitiesand consider a graduated fee schedule forcounty/non-county residents.• Determine if State County Park Assistance Programfunding could be increased by recognition of thecamping facilities at Camp Kiwanilong and CampCullaby.• Assign to parks the revenue the county receivesfrom ODF for their camping facilities.3. Find ways to creatively reward and encourageefficiencies in the parks’ structure and operation.126 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

4. Expand user fee and revenue from the state by addingnew camping facilities.• The net operational impact should be carefullyconsidered when proposing new facilities.• If feasible, those facilities that increase revenue willbe proposed before those that are revenue neutralor require general fund support.5. Increase the Parks Acquisition and MaintenanceAccount through the sale of parcels in the WilliamsportRoad area and the parcels in Fort Stevens.6. Seek a group of interested and committed citizenswilling to establish a “Friends of Parks” nonprofitfoundation to accept tax-deductible donations.7. Consider other mechanisms and resources to sustainlong term park financing needs while maximizingefficiency of existing resources. These newmechanisms and resources include:• Consider establishing a systems developmentcharge (SDC) for new construction within theunincorporated county to provide funding for parkcapital improvements.• Develop methods for utilizing the ODOT countyhighway fund for park and trail improvements.• Utilize volunteers and partnerships wheneverpossible to develop and maintain the park system.It is recognized that, unless stable funding is achieved, thecurrent operation of the parks department will most likelyresult in a “spending down” of the Park Land Acquisition &Maintenance Fund. Without consistent funding, it will bedifficult to realize the goals outlined in this report.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 127

Park System Management andRecommendationsAs elements of the master plan are implemented, parkadministration and maintenance staff will have increasedresponsibilities. The workload and job duties of staff,especially the parks foreman, should be monitored andrecognized with appropriate compensation as the programmoves forward. Another critical element during the next tenyears will be additional secretarial/administrative support. Itwill also be impossible to achieve the goals outlined in thisreport without the backing and assistance of parksadministration. Ideally, administrative support during thisexpansion phase should include personnel with priorexperience in building and improving a parks operation.We recommend the county consider organizational changesand periodic management evaluation, including:• Reorganize the parks section within the county’s publicworks department to gain greater efficiency in theutilization of personnel, equipment and materials.• Review staffing needs as expanded park operations areconsidered and measure associated costs whendetermining project feasibility.• Request that the RLPAC prepare an annual reportsummarizing the progress made toward meeting goals,objectives and actions strategies outlined in the masterplan.128 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

9 > PARK SYSTEM SUMMARYRECOMMENDATIONS AND CAPITALPROJECTS LISTClatsop County’s diverse recreational holdings are among ourmost valuable assets. Following is a summary of ourrecommendations for meeting park and recreation needs ofcounty residents and visitors, followed by proceduralrecommendations.> IntroductionThe all-volunteer Recreational Lands Master Plan Task Forceinvested many hours in collecting data, developingrecommendations and preparing this report. The relevantrecommendations, based on goals, policies and prioritiesidentified during the inventory and planning process, havebeen extracted from the main body of this report and arelisted on the following pages. Recommendations for individualparks and recreation lands are contained on pages 72-112.The action plan will help guide the county and its partners asthey make the necessary long-term planning and financialdecisions regarding county parks and recreational lands. Thisplan will also allow the public to better understand their parksystem, take a sense of ownership in it, and support the typeof improvements that are being proposed in the plan.Ultimately, it will help us realize our vision for a park systemthat is a vital and publicly recognized contributor to a vibrant,growing economy and healthy, active citizenry.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 129

Four recurring themes were identified during this planningprocess:• Improve the parks• Connect with the community• Link the recreational resources• Fund the parksIn this chapter, the objectives and actions that the Task Force wouldlike to see addressed for each of these themes are summarized inthe pages that follow. Those that the Task Force would like to seeaccomplished during the next three years are listed first in prioritynumber order. These that follow are the ones that the Task Forcebelieves can be accomplished over the next ten years.130 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Improve the parks1. Focus immediately on signage, appearance andmaintenance.• Establish consistent, high-quality and recognizableidentity for Clatsop County parks and recreationallands, including uniform park entry and rules signage.• Display information about the entire park system ateach developed county park.• Establish county-wide development, building andmaintenance standards.2. Establish the exact boundaries and ownership of allcounty parks, recreational lands and other landsavailable for recreation, with special attention toAldrich Point, Westport, DeLaura Beach and theLewis and Clark boat ramp.3. Provide more restroom facilities.4. Recommend that parks management develop astrategic plan for implementing new campingfacilities at Big Creek, Cullaby Lake, Klootchy Creek,Lee Wooden/Fishhawk Falls, Sigfridson andWestport.5. Designate DeLaura Beach as a county “Park” anddirect Clatsop County Parks and RLPAC to develop aplan to protect onsite natural resources anddevelop limited park facilities.Other recommendations:Planning• Strive to locate parks close to population centers.• Create a policy for the acquisition, development anddisposal of parks and recreational lands that addresseslong-term county needs.• Rezone all park lands to the RM (RecreationManagement) zone.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 131

Management• Reorganize the parks section within the county’s publicworks department to gain greater efficiency in theutilization of personnel, equipment and materials.• Provide park facilities that are safe and accessible fortheir designated uses.• Consider implementing ADA (Americans withDisabilities Act) accessibility standards within existingfacilities, e.g., new handicapped-accessible fishingplatforms at existing park sites.• Increase the number of maintained trails in each park.• Increase the number of designated fishing locations.• Identify and improve both motorized and nonmotorizedboat launch sites.• Designate the Lewis & Clark boat ramp as a county“Park” based on a sale, lease, donation or easementagreement being reached with the current owner ofthe site.Environmental• Complete a system-wide Natural Resources Inventoryto be used to protect and enhance the environment.• Practice environmentally responsible parkmanagement.• Provide staff training on issues of resourcemanagement and protection.• Implement a noxious weed control program.• Develop and implement a “green purchasing” programfor park maintenance and operations.132 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Connect with the community1. Use various media, such as newsletters,interpretive panels and the county’s Web site, tohighlight the parks’ natural and cultural resources.• Create a parks brochure detailing all parks facilities.2. Expand use of volunteers and partnership to aid inmaintenance, construction and enjoyment of theparks. Example:• Expand the Adopt-A-Park program, encouraging areaschools, businesses and other community organizationsto participate.3. Preserve the park inventory data collected duringthe process of producing this report and regularlyupdate.4. Sponsor public events that highlight the county’sunique natural and cultural features.Other recommendations:Marketing• Develop a marketing plan, including cross-marketingopportunities with other recreational providers, tohighlight the county’s scenic, recreational and culturalqualities as an important part of a desirable, healthylifestyle.• Identify opportunities to collaborate on recreationalmaps and other visitor information.Special Use• Consider special-use areas, including off-leash dogparks.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 133

Link the recreational resources1. Establish a permanent Regional Recreation Councilof local, county, state, federal and privaterecreation providers in Clatsop County to improveand integrate regional park and trail developments.• Fund a 1 /4-time position for six months to staff thecouncil.• (See Appendix N for the proposed council charter,including major goals, composition of membership,staffing, etc.)2. Strive to increase connectivity between parks andadjacent recreation areas. Examples:• Connect the trails being developed in the Clatsop StateForest with those in the Tillamook State Forest.• Use the public right-of-way along the railroad tracks toextend Astoria’s Riverwalk both east and west.• Connect Cullaby/Carnahan Parks to the Fort-to-SeaTrail.• Connect the County Fairground/ODF District Officearea with the trials in the Astoria basin.• Establish a water trail from Klootchy Creek Park toSeaside.3. Incorporate inventories of all park and recreationfacilities, including parks, sport fields, trails,recreational lands, historic sites and other relevantdata, into the county’s geographical informationsystem (GIS).4. Create a Land and Water Trails Plan.• Identify and investigate opportunities to secure publicaccess to rivers, streams and lakes, as well assignificant trails and natural or historic sites.• Identify and improve both motorized and nonmotorizedboat launch sites.• Support Lower Columbia Water Trail development.134 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Other recommendation:Security• Coordinate with other law enforcement and securitypersonnel to share patrolling of county parks asappropriate.Fund the Parks1. Increase the Parks Acquisition and MaintenanceAccount through the sale of parcels in theWilliamsport Road area and the parcels in FortStevens.2. Determine if State County Park Assistance Programfunding can be increased by recognition of thecamping facilities at Camp Kiwanilong and CampCullaby.3. Consider establishing a systems developmentcharge (SDC) for new residential constructionwithin the county to provide funding for parkcapital improvements.4. Expand user fee and revenue from the state byadding new camping facilities.5. Fund other parks’ capital improvement projects(see page 137-139).6. Investigate the establishment of a “Friends of theParks” foundation to increase fundraising.7. Assign to parks a portion of the revenue the countyretains from ODF for its camping facilities.Other recommendations:Efficiency• Maximize use of volunteers, partnerships, offenderwork crews and inter-jurisdictional efforts.• Reward and encourage efficiencies in the parks’structure and operation.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 135

• Review staffing needs as expanded park operations areconsidered and measure associated costs whendetermining project feasibility.Leveraging Funds• Continue to aggressively pursue grants from state,federal and private sources.• Leverage appropriate revenue generating potential ofthe county parks, including a graduated fee schedulefor county/non-county residents.• Develop methods for utilizing the ODOT countyhighway fund for park and trail improvements.> Procedural RecommendationsAchieving the Task Force’s vision for the county’s park andrecreational lands will require the coordinated planning andeffort of many people. To increase the likelihood of success,we recommend the following procedural recommendations:1. The county’s administrative staff shall prepare animplementation strategy of the recommendations inthis report for consideration and approval by theBoard of Commissioners.2. Within a year after this Master Plan is approved,RLPAC shall propose changes to the county’s Goal 8Comprehensive Plan that bring the Goal 8 documentin sync with the Master Plan.3. Each year, RLPAC shall prepare a report thatsummarizes the progress in meeting therecommendations in the approved Master Plan.136 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Capital Project ListThis section includes the preliminary capital project lists basedupon priorities and timeframe for completion. This list alsoidentifies possible funding sources and estimated capital costs.It is anticipated that this list will be reviewed annually andupdated to respond to:• New funding opportunities• Changed management and operations capacity• Completed or modified projects• New partnerships and volunteer opportunities• Changing priorities and trendsWe recommend that the Westport projects be given highestpriority if constraints can be resolved regarding propertyownership. The following order of priority is established bythe Task Force for other projects:• Cullaby Lake Park• DeLaura Beach• Big Creek Park• Klootchy Creek• Sigfridson Park• Lee Wooden ParkIt should be noted that other maintenance needs as they arisemust be prioritized and may override projected capitalprojects.Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 137

Table 28 – Capital and Maintenance Improvement PlanProject: Priority Time Frame 2005 Cost: Potential Grant Match Cost to CountyAldrich PointPark entry and rules signs High Short term $1,200 Unknown $1,200Boat ramp/dock improvements Med Mid term $150,000 80% State Marine Board $30,000Vault toilet (single stall) Med Mid term $15,000 80% State Marine Board $3,000Total for Aldrich $166,200 $34,200Big Creek ParkPark entry and rules signs High Short term $1,200 Unknown $1,200Day-use fee station (manual) Med Mid term $2,500 Unknown $2,500Paved entry road and ADA parking area Med Mid term $20,000 50% State Parks $10,000Picnic shelter (24-foot) Med Mid term $20,000 50% State Parks $10,000Site furnishings Med Mid term $5,000 50% State Parks $2,500Playground Med Mid term $10,000 50% State Parks $5,000ADA fishing enhancements Med Mid term $7,500 Volunteer/Partnership $3,750Vault Toilet (two stall) Med Mid term $28,000 50% State Parks $14,000Campground with host site and two stall vault toilet Med Mid term $150,000 50% State Parks $75,000Total for Big Creek $244,200 $123,950Carnahan ParkDock replacement (three 20' docks and brow) Med Mid term $55,000 80% State Marine Board $11,000Expanded trail system Low Long term $5,000 Volunteer/Partnership $1,500Off-leash dog area (signage, dog waste station and water) Med Mid term $5,000 Volunteer/Partnership $2,500Interpretive signage Low Long term $5,000 Unknown $5,000ADA fishing enhancements Med Mid term $7,500 Volunteer/Partnership $3,750Vault toilet (single stall) Med Mid term $15,000 80% State Marine Board $3,000Boat ramp upgrade and paving of parking lot Med Mid term $100,000 80% State Marine Board $20,000Total for Carnahan $192,500 $46,750Cullaby Lake ParkReplacement of Boarding Dock behind north restrooms High Short term $55,000 80% State Marine Board $11,000Replacement of roof on South Picnic Shelter (metal roofing) Med Short term $13,000 Unknown $13,000Replacement of roof on North Picnic Shelter (metal roofing) Med Mid term $13,000 Unknown $13,000ADA fishing enhancements Med Mid term $7,500 Volunteer/Partnership $3,750Campground with host site and two stall vault toilet Med Mid term $150,000 50% State Parks $75,000Replacement of restrooms at south end of the park Low Long term $180,000 50% State Parks $90,000Total for Cullaby Lake: $418,500 $205,750David Douglas ParkPark entry and rules signs Low Long term $1,200 Unknown $1,200Primitive trails Low Long term $7,500 Volunteer/Partnership $3,750Parking area (primitive) utilizing old roadbed Low Long term $15,000 Unknown $15,000Total for David Douglas $23,700 $19,950John Day County ParkReplacement of roof on restrooms (metal roof) Med Short term $1,300 Unknown $1,300Installation of park Host site Med Mid term $15,000 Unknown $15,000Total for John Day $16,300 $16,300Subtotal $1,061,400 Subtotal $446,900Time Frame: Short Term (1-3 years) Mid Term (4-7 years) Long Term (8-10+ years)Note: Costs do not include design and engineering services, permit fees or other soft costs138 Clatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan

Table 28 – Capital and Maintenance ImprovementPlan, continuedProject: Priority Time Frame 2005 Cost: Potential Grant Match Cost to CountyKlootchy CreekPark entry and rules signs High Short term $1,200 Unknown $1,200Day-use fee station (automatic) Med Mid term $20,000 Unknown $20,000Expanded trail system Med Mid term $10,000 Volunteer/Partnership $5,000Campground with host site and two stall vault toilet Med Mid term $150,000 50% State Parks $75,000Boat ramp/dock improvements Low Long term $75,000 80% State Marine Board $15,000Deck surface replacement (Trex decking, materials only) Med Short term $25,000 Unknown $25,000Installation of Vault Toilet (two stall) Med Mid term $28,000 50% State Parks $14,000Total Klootchy Creek $309,200 $155,200Lee Wooden ParkPark entry and rules signs High Short term $1,200 Unknown $1,200Install primitive trails Med Mid term $7,500 Volunteer/Partnership $3,750Install new access road, parking lot & gate, day use area Med Mid term $20,000 50% State Parks $10,000Total for Lee Wooden $28,700 $14,950Nehalem County Park (Red Bluff)Park entry and rules signs High Short term $1,200 Unknown $1,200Primitive trails Med Mid term $7,500 Volunteer/Partnership $3,750Parking area (primitive) Low Long term $20,000 50% State Parks $10,000Total for Nehalem County Park $28,700 $14,950SigfridsonPark entry and rules signs High Short term $1,200 Unknown $1,200Primitive trails Med Mid term $10,000 Volunteer/Partnership $5,000Pedestrian/Maintenance bridge Low Long term $100,000 50% State Parks $50,000Site furnishings Med Mid term $5,000 50% State Parks $2,500Day-use fee station (manual) Med Mid term $2,500 Unknown $2,500Parking area Med Mid term $30,000 50% State Parks $15,000Install single vault toilet Med Mid term $15,000 50% State Parks $7,500Total for Sigfridson $163,700 $83,700Smith LakePark entry and rules signs Low Mid term $1,200 Unknown $1,200Primitive trails Low Long term $5,000 Volunteer/Partnership $2,500Boardwalks, interpretive signage and wetland observation Low Long term $20,000 Volunteer/Partnership $10,000Total for Smith Lake $26,200 $13,700WestportPark entry and rules signs High Short term $1,200 Unknown $1,200Day-use fee station (automatic) High Short term $20,000 Unknown $20,000Primitive trails Med Mid term $10,000 Volunteer/Partnership $5,000ADA fishing enhancements Med Mid term $7,500 Volunteer/Partnership $3,750Parking lot and boat launch upgrade High Short term $230,000 80% State Marine Board $46,000Restroom installation (flush type) High Short term $110,000 80% State Marine Board $22,000Installation of a RV/Trailer campground High Short term $500,000 50% State Parks $250,000Total for Westport $878,700 $347,950Delaura Beach (Recreational Lands Site)Park entry and rules signs High Short term $1,200 Unknown $1,200Install new access road and trailer parking lot Med Mid term $80,000 50% State Parks $40,000Total for Deluara Beach $81,200 $41,200Total CapitalTotal CostsCosts $2,577,800 with Grant Match $1,118,550Time Frame: Short Term (1-3 years) Mid Term (4-7 years) Long Term (8-10+ years)Note: Costs do not include design and engineering services, permit fees or other soft costsClatsop County Recreational Lands Master Plan 139