Mining – Friends of Clark County in SW Washington

April 3, 2024

Consolidated Report: Chelatchie Bluff Mine and Surrounding Industrial Plan

in Accountability, Comprehensive Plan & Growth Management Act, Farmland & Forests, Mining, Parks, Trails, & Open Spaces, Position Statements & Policy Recommendations, Railroad, Rivers, Lakes & Aquifers, Wildlife Habitats

Over the past 18 months, experts in the fields of hydrology, fish and wildlife, forestry, geology, and hydraulic engineering have collaborated to consolidate a report on the proposed surface mining on Chelatchie Bluff and the surrounding areas. The author and contributors conclude that should the Chelatchie Bluff mine be able to expand, it would mean […]

February 27, 2024

Freight Rail Dependent Uses (FRDU) Update – February 2024

in Mining, Position Statements & Policy Recommendations, Railroad, Rivers, Lakes & Aquifers, Wildlife Habitats

Quite a bit has happened regarding the railroad since our last newsletter that included a background on the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad, Portland Vancouver Junction Railroad (PVJR), and the Freight Rail Dependent Uses (FRDU) controversy, as well as FOCC’s position on the matter. You can read up on those here before reading on for the latest […]

December 29, 2023

Our Position on the Portland Vancouver Junction Railroad (PVJR) and How YOU Can Help

in Farmland & Forests, Mining, Position Statements & Policy Recommendations, Railroad, Wildlife Habitats

Friends of Clark County holds that Clark County should take the necessary steps to terminate the existing lease with the Portland Vancouver Junction Railroad (PVJR).

December 29, 2023

Everything you Wish you Knew about the Railroad Controversy in Clark County

in Farmland & Forests, Mining, Position Statements & Policy Recommendations, Railroad, Wildlife Habitats

History of Freight Rail Dependent Use (FRDU) In 2017, the WA State Legislature passed Senate Bill 5517 allowing development “adjacent” to short line railroads in Clark and Okanogan counties.

March 18, 2023

Mining in Clark County – March 2023

in Mining, Position Statements & Policy Recommendations, Rivers, Lakes & Aquifers, Wildlife Habitats

Washougal Pit Cathy Morton, Steigerwald Refuge Steward The Washougal Pit has been the object of debate for years. Currently, owner Judith Zimmerly and operator Nutter Corp, are seeking permits from Clark County land use to conduct surface mining and material processing. This is being reviewed by the county. This location is within the Columbia River […]