PORT TOWNSEND — Jefferson County Public Health will host public meetings for two clean water projects — the Northeast Jefferson project and the Mats Mats Bay project this month, with the first meeting today.
Two meetings are planned for the Northeast Jefferson project, which is focused within the city of Port Townsend, the Quimper Peninsula, Marrowstone Island and about 40 miles of shoreline.
Public Health will coordinate with the city of Port Townsend to locate, trace and monitor stormwater outfalls.
The first meeting will be from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. today at the Tri-Area Community Center at state Highway 19 and West Valley Road.
The second will be from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday at Jefferson County Public Health, 615 Sheridan St. in Port Townsend.
A mid-project update for the Mats Mats Bay Clean Water Project will be presented at a public meeting from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 21, at the Port Ludlow Fire Hall, 7650 Oak Bay Road.
Public Health staff will explain project goals and the work that is being performed to ensure clean water for recreation and shellfish harvest.
Time will be given for discussion, and light refreshments will be served at each meeting.
The projects are Centennial Clean Water Projects funded by the state Department of Ecology and Jefferson County.
Goals are to monitor water quality for pathogens that can cause human illness and contaminate shellfish beds; survey septic systems in the area to assess how they are used and maintained; give information on septic maintenance; and provide assistance to landowners with livestock manure management.
For more information, phone 360-385-9444.