October 25, 2021

Report Details

This dispatch is an update on the continuing armoring projects taking place on mile 199 - Wakonda Beach. Last year, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department issued emergency permits for (north to south) 5290, 5304, 5318 and 5330 SW Pacific Coast Highway, Waldport due to severe loss of the embankments on their beach sides. Permanent armoring permits were issued for PERMIT # (North to South): #2973, #2974, #2975, and #2976 as on continuous project. The concern was that there was so much loss that there was a threat by the high surf to the septic systems of the properties. Another part of this report will address the question of whether it is necessary to add beach sand and beach grass over the top of the structure considering that almost all of the sand and grass has been washed off of the rock structure installed on the beach side of the four properties to the south of this new structure two years ago this month. Those addresses are 5346, 5362, 5368, 5378 and 5392 Pacific Coast Highway (first image below).From the permit application:"The details for the structure on Tax Lot 400 (Wiren and Ford) include poured concrete steps and a handrail for beach access to serve the neighboring properties."From the permit issued to 5290 (Per # 2976), it includes:"A poured concrete stairway over the riprap may be included in the project."No stairway is evident in the project as of completion date. This would be extremely helpful if open to neighbors and renters since the Wakonda Beach access becomes washed out and completely impassable from being washed out by winter storms. It is only repaired when other beach projects are permitted that require equipment to get on the beach.