Why it Matters to Whiteman Cove
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) report that recommends breaching the berm between Whiteman Cove and Case Inlet is based on a faulty assumption that Whiteman Cove has culverts. However, the historical record references the structures in the cove as tide gates, NOT culverts. This distinction matters because the injunction that the DNR is required to comply with, U.S. v Washington Culvert Sub-proceeding 2013, uses express language explicitly excluding "tide gates" from the definition of "culvert".
"As used in this injunction, the word “culvert” shall mean any structure, other than a full span bridge or tide gate, that is constructed to convey water beneath a roadway..." ~Section 1, lines 10-11.
Including the Whiteman Cove tide gates on the list of culverts to be repaired pursuant to the Injunction was in error, and the DNR is obligated to remove Whiteman Cove from this list (as other state agencies have done when discovering errors with respect to their lists).
There is no doubt that the tide gates at Whiteman Cove are indeed tide gates, as they regulate the amount of saltwater that flows between the Cove and the Puget Sound.
As a result, Whiteman Cove should not be required to modify it's tide gates in any way as it does not fit the criteria outlined in the Injunction. However, the Y is still supporting the recommendation that the tide gates be upgraded to the proposed fish-friendly solution that we believe is a viable solution for all parties. Our goal is to provide an environmentally friendly solution that both enhances fish passage and provides the continuation of recreational and educational traditions that the Y and surrounding community have valued for decades.
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What is the Difference Between a Culvert and Tide Gate?
While both serve to function as a conduit for allowing water to pass under roadways, the discrepancy is critical to restoring fish passage and maintaining water levels for human use.
Culverts
Culverts are pipes buried under roadways that allow water to flow from one side to the other but often do not allow fish to pass. The downstream end of the culvert may be too far above the water’s surface for upstream migrating fish to enter. Water in the culvert may be moving too swiftly, be too shallow, or debris may collect blocking fish passage in either direction.
Tide Gates
Tide Gates also allow water to pass under roadways but have a hinged door which opens outwards. When water levels are higher on the side opposite the door, the weight of the water pushes the door open, allowing water to flow into the estuary. When the water levels reverse, the water flows back out of the estuary, pulling the door closed once again.
Fish-Friendly Tide Gates
Fish-friendly tide gates may have an actuator to manually control the gate. The gate can then be closed when needed to maintain water levels for human use. Additionally, they also have portals or openings on the top or side that allow fish to pass freely in both directions, even when the gate is closed. The Y is proposing use of this type of gate in Whiteman Cove.
The Y in the Community
Camp & Outdoor Leadership
The YMCA has been the leader in Summer Camp for over 130 years. Over this time, we’ve fine-tuned our programs to meet youth and their families wherever they are in their journey with the outdoors.
Our Mission
Building a community where all people, especially the young, are encouraged to develop their fullest potential in spirit, mind, and body.
Save Salmon, Save Camp
Whiteman Cove at Camp Colman is in danger of being destroyed by a Department of Natural Resources proposal. We need your help to save “the lagoon” for salmon, campers, and the community alike.
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