Mitchell Hill/Westcott Trails Alternative Workshop

Webb Lagoon – Contributed photo

Trails enthusiasts are invited to discuss draft alternatives the National Park Service has developed for the Mitchell Hill/Westcott Bay additions to English Camp at a workshop scheduled 5:00 – 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, April 22 at the Grange Hall in Friday Harbor.

The park is in the process of drafting a Development Concept Plan and Environmental Assessment (EA) for the 382 acres of uplands, forests and shoreline that became part of English Camp in 2010 and 2013. The proposed plan will provide a blueprint for future facilities and recreational activities for each new area, according to Lee Taylor, park superintendent.

National Park Service planners and park staff developed a set of preliminary alternatives after taking comments at public workshop held January 22. During the process, attendees at several tables used colored markers on large maps to indicate which trails in the area were appropriate for mixed or single use, as well as those that should be closed or developed. They also expressed ideas about infrastructure such as picnic areas, hitching posts, kayak launch sites and trailhead signage.

“It was a very productive session and was invaluable in drafting the set of alternatives,” Taylor said. “We’re hoping all of our January attendees will return and that we’ll see some new faces as well, to provide feedback on our work.”

For information, please contact Jerald Weaver, park chief of Integrated Resources at 360-378-2240 ext 2224, or e-mail him at
Jerald_weaver [@] nps [.] gov

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