Gluesenkamp Perez Helps Secure $450,900 to Support Shoreline Restoration and Erosion Stabilization Along Baker Bay

Last week, Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03) helped secure a $450,900 grant through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s National Coastal Resilience Fund for the preliminary design of shoreline restoration and erosion stabilization along Baker Bay.

With the funding, the Pacific Conservation District will develop 30% designs for erosion control and conduct a geotechnical assessment along the lower Columbia River. Baker Bay’s shoreline has faced erosion for decades, and the project will help protect U.S. Route 101, public lands, and private properties from present and future water levels, while improving conditions for shorebirds and salmon. In June, Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez wrote to the National Coastal Resilience Fund in support of the project.

“As coastal communities face rising sea levels and storm surges move further inland, we need to act swiftly to build long-term resilience. It’s about protecting critical access to Highway 101, coastal property, and salmon habitats – but it’s also about giving folks greater peace of mind,” said Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez. “I’m glad we’re getting these funds home to work on solutions for Pacific County residents, and I’ll continue to looking for ways to assist these efforts on the federal level.”

“Pacific Conservation District is proud to support local ideas for addressing complex habitat and hazards issues, such as this project. Community members came to workshops and recommended that dredged material be used to restore shorelines while reducing erosion and flooding, from the town of Chinook to the Astoria-Megler Bridge,” said Jackson Blalock, Pacific Conservation District Marine and Estuarine Resilience Program Manager. “Now we have the funds to take next steps and learn more. Representative Gluesenkamp Perez’s staff attended these workshops, while also supporting behind the scenes.”

An interactive map of community investments supported by the Congresswoman can be found at gluesenkampperez.house.gov/invest.