Local Mariners Make Recommendations for Buoys at Tillamook Bar at Town Hall April 6th; Coast Guard conducts waterways analysis study of Tillamook Bay, seeks public comment

By Laura Swanson

Two weeks ago, US Coast Guard Station Master Chief Corbin Ross invited all  Tillamook Bay vessel masters, recreational operators and other stakeholders were asked to join in a discussion about the best placement of the channel markers. With over 40 people in attendance, many of the Garibaldi charter and commercial fishers, Master Chief Ross opened the discussion about the Tillamook Bay entrance, new aids to navigation and bar restrictions.  “We are asking you, you’re the ones that use this bar what would you recommend, the best placements for aids to navigation,” said Ross. “We are not going to make everyone happy, but the idea is to keep everyone safe.”   A robust conversation ensued with multiple captains sharing their experiences and comments. Everyone acknowledged that there have been significant changes throughout the years, and even the current maps do not show the shoaling at the mouth, and that it changes almost day-to-day, depending on the tides.  The recent changes to the Tillamook Bay entrance effects all that transit, and it has become one of ths most challenging bars in the district.

There is a “path” that most boats take, not a channel, and it’s not a traditional red/green path; all agreed that they do not use the buoys for locating the “channel” but for assessing the path and timing the swell. According to Bob Browning regarding the buoy on the south side, “We use it as a reference point, a guide, not necessarily to mark route.” USCG Deputy Commander John Moriarty, Waterways Management, indicated there is funding for additional buoys, and the information from the meeting and the upcoming survey will be utilized to develop a plan for Tillamook Bay. Recommendations were made about changing positions of the buoys and possibly adding another “safe aid to navigation” buoy.   “Tillamook is not a safe bar,” said Chief Ross. “No buoy placements will change that condition. We highly encourage ALL mariners participate in the survey below.”

Share your questions and concerns. For additional information, and to receive a paper copy of the survey, call 503-322-3531.

Here is the press release from USCG survey.  If you or someone you know is a marine that regularly uses the Tillamook Bay bar, please have them complete the survey below.