Protect Vulnerable Birch Bay 'Berm' Plantings this July 4

Contact: Marie Duckworth

Phone: 360-603-1103

Email: MDuckwor@co.whatcom.wa.us

BELLINGHAM, WA – The newly completed Birch Bay “Berm” includes over 110,000 young native plants that will restore shoreline habitat, help protect the beach from erosion during winter storms, and reduce project costs. Anyone celebrating Independence Day is asked to partner with Public Works in protecting these plants. Please stay on designated paths and keep off of the plantings. Once established, these plants will be an important aspect of erosion protection for the beach.  

In addition to the positive environmental features of the plantings, their preservation also has financial importance. The County is required to replace damaged plants in the next several years, so protecting them helps keep project costs down and saves thousands of dollars for future road projects.

“If you protect the plants now when they are young, they will help protect your beach, roadway, and homes from erosion and flooding once they mature,” said Marie Duckworth, Public Works Communications Specialist. “We want to remind revelers that these young and vulnerable plants are yours to protect.” 

Find out more on the Birch Bay “Berm” also known as the Birch Bay Drive and Pedestrian Facility on the project website.

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