In a highly controversial move, the US Army Corps of Engineers took action on April 26th to restrict vehicle access to the South Jetty in Newport Oregon following a press release statement made on April 22nd just before the popular Easter holiday. Siting concerns with erosion and sink holes and the jetty not being able to withstand the weight of continued vehicle use, as well as concerns for public safety following the tragic deaths of two Portland residents in November of 2010, the USACE directed contractors to install a cable across this popular beach access point early on the morning of the 26th. Surfrider Foundation's Newport & Siuslaw Chapter's supported Oregon Field Manager Charlie Plybon in submitting a letter to the USACE the day before the cable was to be installed siting concerns whether this was an effective solution, the potential for slowing future emergency response time, inconveniencing recreational ocean users, and a lack of communication and coordination with affected stakeholders and other relevant local and state agencies. The Chapter's made a reasonable request that the USACE postpone the placement of the cable for 30 days to give the public an adequate amount of time to voice their concerns, as well as explore potential alternatives that might result in a more effective solution, unfortunately the USACE chose to ignore that request. Read More...
