Tracing the Fjord | Spring 2017 by Imagination

SPRING 2017 ISSUE I

HOOD CANAL & SOUTH PUGET SOUND

HAMA HAMA OYSTER RAMA LILLIWAUP WA

OYSTER RAMA

The Hama Hama Oyster Rama – beach festivities, live music, fresh local fare and great people – pg 9 S AT A P R 2 9, 1 2 - 6

MAPS • EVENTS KNOW YOUR HOOD

Experience Hood Canal from mountain peak to fjord deep – pg 20

SHRIMPFEST

Lures hungry shrimpers to the Hood Canal’s rich waters & enjoy a community celebration – pg 33

nwevent.org/fjord

LODGING OYSTERS

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Like a giant fish hook snaking around glacier capped peaks, lush rain soaked forests and spanned by a web of waterways and inlets, the Hood Canal is poised to catch your imagination and reel in memories for years to come. The Hood Canal fjord formed during the Late Pleistocene era approximately 13,000 years ago when the Cordilleran Ice Sheet retreated. The ice sheet excavated the channels of Puget Sound, Lake Washington, Hood Canal, and other long, straight valleys in the Puget Sound area. The curious question as to how did the massive glacier turn in it’s course to create the “hook” may be answered by examining a combination of forces including the formation of great glacial lakes and erosion. The broad valley of the Skokomish River joins the southern tip of the Canal from the west in much the same way as the arm “hook” joins from the East.

As the Skokomish valley cut down through the valley it joined the glacier lake with the major fjord thereby creating the “L- shaped” channel. This troughing of the glacial till and erosion may account for the massive sills of glacial sediment that make up the sea floor in many areas of the Canal. Christened “Hood’s Channel” by Captain Vancouver when he traced the shores of the sixty mile fjord in May 1792, the Twana people have called this hook of saltwater “home” for countless generations before European arrival.

Spending winters in villages near the mouths of the major rivers, the Twana people lived in cedar plank homes and enjoyed a rich culture and livelihood on the fjord. Salmon, clams, plants, and game provided year round generous bounty for their families. The warmer months were marked with visits to neighboring settlements as well as further journeys to trade with people from as far away as what is now Alaska’s outer coast.

ISSUE 1 | VOLUME 1

Spring 2017 TIED TO THE TIDES

Hood Canal & Mason County waterways host unique marine resources for visitors & residents

– pg 4

LOCAL EVENTS

Wondering what’s happening in our communities? Check out upcoming festivities – pg 6

HUG THE SHORES

NW OYSTER GUIDE

Celebrate April Oyster Month by getting to know your local oysters

– pg 10

Celebrate the return of the shrimp on the Canal at this fun Brinnon festival – pg 33

GET INSPIRED

FJORDINCROSSIN

Go play outside! Great ideas for all skill level – pg 20

MANDOLIN TASTING HAMA HAMA OYSTER RAMA

April 29 | beach tours & live bands, fresh local fare and great people

SHRIMPFEST

Experience music and “taste” a few instruments at Bluegrass from the Forest – pg 31

–FJORD 2 pg 9

Embrace your Scandanavian heritage (or adopt some for the day) and head to Hoodsport for this unique event that celebrates the shore, the Canal – and aquavit! – pg 38

In 1792, Vancouver ventured into Hood Canal in longboats. He left his ships, the Discovery and Chatham, in nearby Port Townsend. Vancouver and his crew journeyed as far as the mouth of the Skokomish River, where Menzies, his botanist, was amazed by the rich vegetation as well as the natural beauty of the area. He wrote in his journal, “here the arm was hemmed in by lofty Mountains on one side and low flat country of considerable extent on the other.” After a few days of exploration and trade with the Twana people, Vancouver and his men retraced their path out of the Canal leaving behind a legacy of European names in their wake. Over two centuries later the Canal remains much the same. The settlements are replaced with small towns and knots of houses. Harvested hillsides have regrown new forests. The water route is replaced with a two lane highway that follows the shoreline.

As Highway 101 meanders along the canal edge, we pass pockets of civilization and catch glimpses of the beauty through the trees.

INSIDE: Calendar of Events

Hood Canal is renown as a diving mecca as its glacial fjord formation caused underwater biomes that appear no where else. Adventurers travel worldwide for the area’s spectacular hiking, boating, fishing, camping and relaxing opportunities. Heralded for its rich timber history and aquaculture resources it is the place where many of us choose to raise our kids and build our livelihoods.

State Park Free Days

In this issue, as we trace the fjord, we celebrate the diversity and resources of our local waters and proudly support the natural legacy. We invite locals, descendants and travelers to join us on this journey and share their stories and experiences.

National Park Fee Waiver Weekends 22 FREE Public Shellfish Beaches 23 BUSINESS MAP 24 Boat Launches & Marinas

Area Lodging 28 Shrimp Opening

WA Shellfish Trail

For contribution guidelines and advertising please call (360) 427-5599 or email rachel@imageinactiondesign.com. This publication is produced quarterly by

IMAGE IN ACTION DESIGN PO Box 622 | Shelton, WA 98584

nwevent.org/fjord

COVER IMAGE

Hama Hama Oyster Rama (2016) events in the inter tidal areas. Photo by: Terrence Allison, event details page 9. 3 3

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Tied to the Tides Rachel Hansen | Fjord Editor

When our family moved to Shelton, we came for the space, the water, and for the tides. With two small energetic boys in tow, we were excited about the opportunities for recreation. Little did we know how much our lives would be shaped by those very tides.

Recently I was asked to be a speaker at a local aquaculture conference. It was a great honor – in January. By March when the speaking date was just days away, I was terrified. My topic was “Integrating Tourism into Aquaculture.” Yes, that’s a real topic. I began to prepare with a cursory glance at tourism – attractions, lodging, transportation and access. As I compiled my statistics a pattern began to form. A formula that was beginning to prove that our untapped assets could be likened to un-mined gold, proving – as always – what is common to one is a treasure to others. I knew more than I thought I did. Raised in a remote coastal fishing lodge off British Columbia, I have been tied to tourism and aquaculture since my beginnings. As a teenager, digging clams meant frozen finger tips, wet boots and soaking knees as mud

ran up your rain-pants. Oysters represented winter tides with the blackness pierced by the Coleman’s glowing fragile mantle. I disliked those hours on the beach. I feigned sleep in my warm bed as my sister tried to shake me awake to keep my daytime promises of helping her dig or gather. Decades later the joke is on me. The very oysters I resisted are laughing at me from the beach in front of our house. As we fill our weekly orders, I have come to realize that we actually searched this way of life out. What does this have to do with tourism? Imagine the coldest nights in January. To the shores of Totten Inlet, Taylor Shellfish delivers bus loads from as far afield as Portland. The crowd eagerly dons rubber boots for the “ultimate oyster-eating experience.” The event is best described by their ticket

listing: “The “picnic” takes place by lantern and/or moon light on Taylor’s Totten Inlet oyster bed at night in the middle of the winter. Plump, sweet, perky oysters, just rousted from their beds and opened on the spot and award-wining “oyster wines” served in Reidel stemware close at hand.” The annual night tide excursion is a fundraiser for the Puget Sound Restoration Fund. Their event is a self-proclaimed “just the right mix of magic and madness.” And magic it is. Today’s visitors would rather not be termed “tourists.” Many travel because they desire experiences – the opportunity to make memories, participate, and ultimately be educated. As I dug into my presentation research I discovered pockets of magic worldwide where operators, restaurants, and entire regions have come together in cooperative efforts to design “aquaculture experiences for visitors.”

Hosted by Taylor Shellfish Farms as a benefit for the Puget Sound Restoration Fund, the Walrus & Carpenter picnics provide the ultimate oyster-eating experience. (Puget Sound Restoration Fund photo 2017)

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The aquaculture industry is a key player as one of our most valuable and unique attractions. Cradled by thousands of acres of lush evergreen forests, in the shadow of the breathtaking Olympic range and bejeweled with hundreds of lakes and a myriad of saltwater coves and inlets – our industries and livelihoods are the attraction. It is not just the waterways filled with living, breathing, filtering and economy building bivalves; it is also the rich heritage that shared these waterways – the first peoples, the settlers, the timber industry. These are valuable assets in setting our area apart from the other destinations. How many places can you go to a State Park and gather your own oysters to cook on the campfire? Check out page 23 for a list of available shellfish gathering areas. Our little beach on Hammersly Inlet filled with racks of tumbling oysters is insignificant compared to Taylor or Hama Hama, but I shall pretend that our small voice counts.

Hood Canal, Wash.

Let us be your guides.

Quilcene Munns Since 1888.

PHOTO: KLAAS IMAGES

South Australia’s Aquaculture Trail maps a path to “self drive or visit the aquaculture farms, fishing boats and old fishing ports on organized tours.” Guests are led to adventures with tasty descriptions– who wouldn’t want to “visit an oyster shed and taste seafood from the waters of the Great Australian Bight in Streaky Bay, home to the green-lipped abalone.”

For four generations the Munn family has made their home along Hood Canal. Today, brothers, Bruce & Jim Munn, are happy to help you find your Canal home and share their experience & knowledge of the area with you. The Munn Brothers specialize in properties in the Lake Leland, Quilcene and Dabob Bay areas along the Hood Canal. Stop by their office for maps, tide tables and local insight. Visit munnbros.com to sign up for email notifications of available properties. Contact Jim or Bruce today to find your perfect place. Experience counts.

I will continue to advocate for the industry with the promotion of this magazine and other projects like it supporting aquaculture regions. The following pages outline a few amazing community events in the Hood Canal and South Puget Sound area. Events that reflect “just the right mix of magic and madness.” With a whole lot of volunteers and passion, from a tide flat celebration at Hama Hama; sand belt races at Brinnon to the all new paddle across the Fjord with the Hardware Distillery – it gives me great pleasure to have a small part in helping to promote these events that may contribute to one of your family’s next best memories! Catch you on the tide!

294843 Highway 101 360-301-4700 Jim Cell Quilcene WA 360-301-4026 BruceFJORD Cell 5 munnbros.com

Inspired by Community Whether raising funds through a rubber duck race, rolling logs in the Stihl Championship, or hosting an inter-tidal mud run – from Quilcene to Kamilche – the area’s unique events are fueled by enthusiasm and passion that represents generations who feel strongly about the heritage and success of their community.

Spring is heralded in Hood Canal and South Puget Sound waters with the re-emergence of daytime low tides. The rain is interspersed with breaks of glorious sunshine that makes you feel that it might actually be possible to cast aside the rubber boots again. Craving a fun and different night out? Embrace the year-round bounty of Hood Canal at Union City Market’s monthly Canal Cookouts. These themed dinners are offered the 3rd Thursday of every month. In the winter, they are held inside the marina and in warmer months outdoors on the patio. April 20th Canal Cookout will celebrate Hood Canal shellfish. Cost is $45 per person and includes seafood and drinks. Canal Cookouts are 21+ events. Details on this and other events, including their Canal Cinema selection of movie showings, held the first Thursday of every month, available at unioncitymarket.com. As the snow begins to recede on the peaks of the Olympic range, Union celebrates the “Return

of The Traveler,” an image that appears when the snow scape is just right. Festivities, April 22, include a 5.5K run/walk, live music, food, beer & wine, and plenty of vendors. Details available at hoodcanalevents.com. The much anticipated annual beach party on the Canal is the Hama Hama Oyster Rama on April 29. Shaped around the tide at the farm near Lilliwaup, this event is truly a subtidal party! Enjoy Tidal Flat Tours, gather oysters and clams, participate in oyster events & entertainment, and savor local beers, wines and food – including, yes, oysters! All this and the Rama proceeds benefit Hood Canal charities. Check out details and schedule on page 9.

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EVENTS APRIL – JUNE ‘17

SAVE THE DATE: May 19-21 | Shelton High School Campus

Bluegrass from the Forest

ers erform s ional p g e r luegras & al ol of B o h c Nation S uth ntest ose Yo anjo Co Chick R B & le cramb e Band S g onsit campin t s n e t d ven or RV & sting & a T n li st Mando thefore m grassfro

TICKETS & SCHEDULE information available online!

@ blue

Bluegrassfromtheforest.com

Need a some lake time? Shelton Mason County Chamber’s 2nd Annual April Showers is a great way to spend the day at one of the area’s prettiest lakes. Held at Green Diamond’s recreation property on Mason Lake near Shelton, attendes enjoy live music, food, beer & wine garden, and activities for the whole family! Join in the celebration for just $5, children 12 and under attend the event free. Details at sheltonchamber.org/ aprilshowers. (continued page 8)

EVENT CALENDAR APRIL

Thursday, April 20, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Canal Cookout: Celebrate Shellfish Union City Market, 5101 WA-106, Union unioncitymarket.com

Saturday, May 20 | 4:30 PM 4th Annual Waves of Perfection Skookum Creek Event Center 91 W State Route 108, Shelton

Friday, April 21, 7:00 PM Cherish the Ladies Concert 3737 N Shelton Springs Rd, Shelton Irish folk ensemble. mcca.com

Saturday, May 20th, 7:30PM Concerts in the Woods – “Brenda Xu“ 923 Hazel Point Road, in Coyle

Saturday, April 22 Quilcene Historical Museum Grand re-opening/ribbon cutting of Birkenfeld Trail in Worthington Park. Saturday, April 22 | 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM The Traveler 5.5K Run/Walk 330 Country Club Dr E, Union hoodcanalevents.com Saturday, April 29, 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM Hama Hama Oyster Rama 35846 N US Hwy 101, Lilliwaup hamahamaoysters.com Details page 9 Saturday, April 29, 12:00 – 5:00 PM April Showers 1052 E Mason Lake Dr W, Shelton sheltonchamber.org/aprilshowers.

MAY

Saturday & Sunday, May 6 – 7 Matlock Old Timers Historical Fair 2987 Matlock-Brady Rd, Elma Saturday, May 6th, 7:30PM Concerts in the Woods – March to May 923 Hazel Point Road, Coyle coyleconcerts.com Thursday, May 18, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Canal Cookout: NW Paella Union City Market, 5101 WA-106, Union unioncitymarket.com Friday – Sunday, May 19 – 21 Bluegrass from the Forest 3737 N Shelton Springs Rd, Shelton bluegrassfromtheforest.com Details page 31

20,000+ visitors in 2016!

Saturday, May 27, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM Quilcene-Brinnon Garden Club Annual Plant Sale Quilcene Masonic Hall, 170 Herbert Street, Quilcene facebook.com/qbgardenclub Saturday, May 27, 10AM-6PM Sunday, May 28, 10AM-5PM ShrimpFest 2017 Field between Cove RV and the Yelvik Store, 303375 U.S. 101, Brinnon brinnonshrimpfest.org Details page 33

JUNE

Thursday – Sunday, June 1 – 4 Mason County Forest Festival Various locations Shelton – Parade, Stihl logging Competition, and vendors downtown, Saturday, June 3; Fireworks sponsored by Manke Lumber, Saturday dusk, June 3; Car show and vendors uptown Shelton, Sunday, June 4. masoncountyforestfestival.org Saturday, June 3rd 2017, 7:30PM Concerts in the Woods – Folias Flute and Guitar Duo 923 Hazel Point Road, Coyle

One stop for insider information. In 2016 the Hoodsport Visitor Center volunteers served over 20,000 visitors, offering passes, maps, and information on everything from where to hike, kayak, gather clams or oysters –as well as eat & sleep!

We’ve got the answers!”

Thursday, June 15, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Canal Cookout: Fish Tails to Pig Tails Union City Market, 5101 WA-106, Union unioncitymarket.com Saturday, June 24, 10:30 AM FjordinCrossin Hoodsport Marina, Hoodsport Take part in a Nordic fjord festival and journey across the Canal with Hood Canal Adventures & a barrel of Hardware Distillery’s aquavit! Music, food, drink, and activities for the whole family. Details page 39

HOODSPORT Visitor Center

150 N Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport, WA 98548

(360) 877-2021 | (800) 526-2021 7 FJORD 7 FJORD

20% OFF ENTIRE PLANT PURCHASE April 27 – June 30, 2017

Visit our website for hours & more information. Coupon has no cash value and cannot be combined with other discounts. Limit one per customer.

3135 SE Arcadia Rd, Shelton

Join us for a SHOPPING SPREE (206) 501-8559 hammersleyinletfarm.com

TRUCKING CO. INC.

Brady Trucking goes to great heights to bring top quality landscaping products!

Want to take home a whole homemade apple-rhubard pie? Visit the Matlock Old Timers Historical Fair, May 6 -7, at Mary M. Knight School in Matlock. Enjoy music, delicious food, displays, crafts, vendors, and an authentic Civil War-era military camp. Other attractions include children’s train rides, FFA plant and starter vegetable sale, antique and classic cars, tractors and steam engines. On May 19, energy is focused at the Shelton High School with the Bluegrass From the Forest. Produced by Kristmas Town Kiwanis, the festival draws musicians worldwide, visit page 31 for details. What’s better than tables laden with chocolate? When these fabulous desserts also have selection of wines expertly paired to complement and enhance the nuances! Waves of Perfection at the Skookum Creek Event Center on May 20 features more than 200 wines accompanied by pairing suggestions from cheese and chocolate to foie gras and salmon gravlax. Tickets available at little-creek.com/entertainment. Get ready for the planting with the Quilcene-Brinnon Garden Club Annual Plant Sale on May 27. This annual plant sale includes a pie sale and raffle. Herbs, Japanese Maples, vegetables, shrubs, native plants, hanging baskets, indoor houseplants, perennials, homemade pies and pastries, and garden items will be for sale. Proceeds benefit the community. The Emerald Towns Alliance presents ShrimpFest on May 27–28. Enjoy music, vendors, arts/craft booths, kids’ activities, belt sander races, food, great fun and lots of shrimp! Proceeds benefit community projects. Details page 33.

360-426-3132 922 Johns Prairie Road | Shelton, WA 98584

bradytrucking.com

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Head to Shelton, June 1 – 4 for the Mason County Forest Festival. The events include a carnival, car show, the exciting Stihl® Timber- Sports® Western Regional Qualifier Logging Show, vendors, live entertainment, fun run, and a parade on Saturday that is not to be missed! Saturday night enjoy the Manke sponsored massive fireworks display. Details at masoncountyforestfestival.org.

8 4/6/17 10:25 PM

OYSTER RAMA APRIL 29 | 12 -5

EVENT PREVIEW

Hama Hama Oyster Rama: beach festivities, live entertainment, fresh local fare and great people

SAT A PR 29, 1 2 - 6

Hama Hama Oyster Rama Celebrate the tide flats! Each Spring Hama Hama invites everyone to their beach to learn about oysters, oyster farming, and life in the Hood Canal – aquatic and other. It’s not the largest party in the world, but it might be the biggest subtidal one! When the folks at Hama Hama started the Rama in 2012 they put out the call for the community to participate – local artists, food vendors, biologists, oyster farmers, friends and neighbors – all invited to a low tide celebration. “We started the event to get people excited about oyster culture,” said Lissa James Monberg, 4th generation oyster farmer and in charge of Hama Hama’s retail and marketing, “we want people who live in this region to know how to harvest and prepare shellfish, know the history of the industry, and learn about the ecology of the intertidal area.”

It’s a simple formula. The freshest seafood. Passionate oyster lovers. A fantastic location with ever-changing views. All with the Hama Hama mission to create a good experience. “Plus,” continued Lissa, “we just wanted to have fun on the beach with all our favorite people, and raise money for the local school.” The Rama highlights include tours with intertidal ecologists and oyster growers; u-pick gathering of oysters and clams; and an engaging and exciting oyster sports competition they fondly termed the “Shuckathalon.”

FJORD HAMA HAMA OYSTER RAMA

Photo: Tom Michalski Add some great local food and beverage providers; invite some chefs who really know how to showcase the local seafood; toss in some fun kid’s activities; and don’t forget the music – you’ve got an intertidal party to remember. To top it off, all this fun family revelry is for a great cause – the Rama benefits a variety of Hood Canal charities.

Not that the sun is unwelcome – the 2016 Rama saw sunburns, killer whales and later in the evening, a show of Northern Lights. Tickets are available online and are needed for everyone 16 and up. They sell out fast, so don’t miss out on this great event!

Terrence Allison photo

The sun doesn’t have to shine for the Rama to be memorable. Previous years have chanced upon relentless rain or westerly gales that have toppled tents and watered down beer. In 2014, during a fantastic Spring storm, the intertidal bunny scattered 1,000’s of eggs on the shore.

Amidst rain and wind young Rama fans clamored amongst the dulse and driftwood searching for brightly colored prizes. Many attendees claimed that the inclement weather added to the experience and the Olympic Mountain Ice cream tasted just as wonderful.

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BEach tours

The Rama is designed to showcase the tide flats and their ecological, economic, and cultural significance: Washington Sea Grant and Hama Hama farmers will lead interpretive Tide Flat Tours Want to know more about the bivalves and the creatures they share their habitat with? Than donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss the chance to join biologists and local guides for a guided tour of the tide flats.

Thank you to the biologists at Washington Sea Grant for your continued support of the Tide Flat Tours!

Terrence Allison photo

Starting at noon, April 29, these walks will take place on the Hama Hama farmlands as the tide falls to its lowest. The tours allow families and individuals the opportunity to flip rocks (and flip back again) and ask questions about the marine low tide interactions.

After a beach tour, visitors can learn more about the animals and organisms by checking out the marine touch tank displays. Offered by MESS (Marine Education Science Society), these mobile aqarium displays are a perfect way to see the creatures beneath the surface with the least amount of impact on their habitat. The animals are returned alive to the water after observation.

Charities that the Rama benefits: Hood Canal Education Foundation, Marine Education and Science Society, Shelton High School jr-Rotc, Mason County Fire District 17 Auxiliary.

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Oyster Classes April 29 | 12:30 – 1:30 CLASSES: Rowan Jacobsen or Luke Reyes

Class with Rowan Jacobsen Join Rowan Jacobsen, our favorite James Beard winning oyster author, for an hour of oyster

Striving to ensure a healthy industry and environment for shellfish farming on the Pacific Coast

Connect with your local shellfish farmers, learn about upcoming shellfish events in your community, and more.

geekery featuring special guests from Hog Island and Island Creek Oyster. Explore molluscan terroir, sharpen your shucking skills, and enjoy wines from Hayfork Wine Company.

This is a hands-on shucking experience, so prepare to roll up your sleeves. The class is in session from 12:30 –1:30 PM, leaving plenty of time in the afternoon for beach explorations and for you to show off your new expertise at the Mystery Oyster taste competition. Rowan Jacobsen is the author of A Geography of Oysters, Fruitless Fall, The Living Shore, American Terroir, Shadows on the Gulf, Apples of Uncommon Character, and The Essential Oyster.

His work has been anthologized in The Best American Science & Nature Writing and Best Food Writing collections. His Outside Magazine article received the Lowell Thomas Award from the Society of American Travel Writers for best adventure story of the year, and his Harper’s piece was named “best magazine piece of the year” by the Overseas Press Club.

Class with Luke REyes Luke Reyes is an LA-based chef and “all around great guy” who won a

www.pcsga.org

viewers choice episode of the TV show Chopped, whipping up a dessert from bone marrow and kale.

You might also remember him from the Winter Farm Dinner, where he won attendee hearts with his oyster crudo and ready smile. In this class, he’ll teach a small group how to make fried rice with oysters and homemade kimchi. Special thanks to Hayfork Wine Company for donating wine for this event.

In December 2016 Luke Reyes prepared a four course meal in the Oyster Saloon for Hama Hama’s first Winter Farm Dinner. photo: Yasmin Alishav FJORD 12

Included in the $125 ticket price is Rama admission, four tokens to spend on food and drink at the event; 20 raffle tickets; a gallon of the kimchi to take home; as well as a tote bag to keep it all together. Proceeds from the classes benefit the Hood Canal Education Foundation.

Rowen Jacobsen photo

$125 Register online: hamahamaoysters.com

12:00 Doors open 12:00 – 5:00 Beach Tours & Kids Activities 12:00 – 1:30 Hamma Hamma Band 12:30 – 1:30 Cooking Classes (Rowans & Luke) 12:00 – 4:00 Mystery Oyster Pool Play 12:00 – 5:00 Silent Auction 1:56 Tide is low! (-2.6’) 2:00 – 3:00 Shuckathalon 2:00 – 3:30 Joy in Mudville (Set 1) 3:30 – 4:00 Oyster Trivia 4:00 – 4:30 Cousin Ana 4:30 – 5:45 Joy in Mudville (Set 2) 5:00 Awards Ceremony 6:00 Food booths & beer garden closed

Terrence Allison photo

Entertainment

Schedule | April 29

2016 - The Crichton Family Band performed to the backdrop of the massive oyster shell pile at Hama Hama.

Think you’ve got what it takes to work on an oyster farm? Prove your stuff at the Rama’s Shuckathalon. Six years in, and this is STILL the world’s only oyster sports competition... which pretty much makes Rama champions WORLD CHAMPIONS. Who will win this year, the Shuckleheads or Shuck Shuck Goose?? The Shuckathalon is a relay race, so you’ve got to rope your friends into joining your team. There are four heats: cluster picking, clam digging, single picking, and shucking. You’ll be judged on how quickly you get through the race as well as how good a job you do.

a $75 value. The race starts at 1:00 PM on the day of the Rama and there is a safety briefing/orientation at 12:30. This is a physical event – involving running over uneven surfaces, bending, digging, and lifting a bushel basket of oysters.

Teams should be sure to wear boots and bring gardening-type Teams can have from two to gloves. For details and to regisfive members. No matter how ter visit hamahamaoysters.com. many people compete,your entry package ($50) includes entrance for up to five people, 13

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Food & Drink at the Rama Oysters, oysters and more oysters! The Rama will have oysters from farms near and far, including Island Creek Oyster Company, Fishers Island Oysters, Jones Family Farm, Taylor Shellfish, National Fish and Oyster, Chelsea Farms, and Capital Oyster. Plus other delicious food offerings. Besides great Hama Hama oysters and clams prepared fresh from the beach the Rama welcomes neighboring farms to serve their specialties. Chelsea Farms will prepare a delicious chowder while Taylor Shellfish will be hosting chef, Xinh Dwelley, as she delights our taste buds with her famous curried mussels and steamed clam dishes. Another favorite is the massive paella served by Paella Works, a pop up paella caterer based out of Maple Valley. The Paella Marisco includes Valencian rice and sofrito sauce with vegetables, rockfish, salmon, yearling oysters and scallops, as well as wild caught Washington shrimp and shellfish all served in a giant pan. Each batch of paella can serve over thirty people at one time.

A perfect oyster needs a perfect pairing. Enjoy wines from Hayfork Winery, Gabriel Wilson, and Bianco Rosso and beers from Fish Brewery, Holy Mountain, Mollusk, and more. Want to try something different? Check out an oak and apple cider from Finnriver Farm Cidery; a non-alcoholic ginger beer from Timber City; or the locally roasted coffee from Shelton-based Urraco.

Xinh Dwell

ey at the 20

Food, drink, oysters and clams are available for purchase using $5 tokens. You can buy tokens ahead of time online (suggested) or at the event for cash or credit.

Love the shore but not the seafood? Don’t worry, Smoking Mo’s from Shelton will be on site to offer pork sliders along with their oyster sliders. Olympic Mountain will be firing up the pizza oven, and Portland chef, Luke Reyes, will have “Ramen at the Rama.” Every great meal deserves an amazing dessert – a scoop of Olympic Mountain Ice Cream, created in small batches in the nearby Skokomish Valley by the Black family, is unequivocally the best crown to your Rama feast. FJORD 14

Paella Works

16 Rama

A Tide Flat CelebraTion!

Andrew Wicklund created the 2017 Rama Logo. The inspiration was the killer whales and Northern Lights at the 2016 event.

Hama Hama’s Oyster Rama is more than a great opportunity to try the tastiest mullusks and play on the beach. It’s also a chance for shellfish companies, suppliers and organizations to celebrate and share their livilihoods. “We love being a part of this fabulous community event,” said Mayline Chavez, owner/ chef atOlympia Oyster Bar. Mayline and her team serve Hama Hama oysters in their Portland restaurant. They have been attending the Rama for three years shucking and preparing oysters. “This year we are coming to enjoy the event,” added Chavez, “we are really hoping to have a team in the Shuckathalon.” Olympia Oyster Bar is donating gift certificates for the Silent Auction. Erik and Brenna Schlagenhauf of Hog Island Oysters also make the trip to Hood Canal each year from their farm in California. “We really enjoy the event,” remarked Brenna. Hog Island will donate “swag” for giveaways and participate in Rowan Jacobsen’s cooking class. “This is a great community event,” added Becky Mabardy, outreach and project coordinator for the Pacific Coast Shellfish Growers Association, “We love that Hama Hama brings everyone down to the beach at low tide.”

PCSGA will be answering questions and will have their shellfish display ice table on site at the Rama. “This event allows us to talk with people who are interested in learning about Hood Canal,” said Teri King, Marine Water Quality Specialist with the Washington Sea Grant, “it provides an opportunity to share what’s happening in the waters and demonstrate how to keep the Canal healthy.” Sea Grant will be leading the Tide Flat Tours throughout the afternoon.

“The event brings together a rich tradition of shellfish farming in the Puget Sound that dates back many generations,” commented Kate Muirhead, in charge of sales and marketing, “Capital Oyster has a fifth generation oyster farmer producing oysters for consumption and we couldn’t be more honored to attend this event that supports and lifts up farmers from all over our community reinforcing the reality that we as a community produce the best oysters in the world.”

Capital Oyster from Olympia is also proud to support the Hama Hama Oyster Rama.

“It’s a lot of fun,” smiles John Hansen, owner/farmer, South Sound Mariculture, Shelton.

Thank you! Alderbrook Resort Chelsea Farms Capital Oyster Finnriver Fishers Island Oyster Company Hayfork Winery Hog Island Oyster Company Island Creek Oysters

“Our whole family is involved – leading beach walks, shucking oysters and talking to people.” South Sound Mariculture will be hosting the kids area and touch tank display for the Marine Education Science Society (MESS). The list of sponsors includes companies that have been intrigued by the Hama Hama spirit and values – Xtratuf and Poler Stuff; restaurants and chefs loyal to their shellfish; and many groups, companies and farms that are honored to participate and contribute at this fun event. Thank you!

Marine Education Science Society (MESS) National Fish & Oyster Olympia Oyster Bar Outstanding in the Field Pacific Coast Shellfish Growers Association Paella Works Poler Stuff Puget Sound Restoration Fund

Sea Creatures Secret Supper South Sound Mariculture Taylor Shellfish The Pantry Seattle Tom Douglas Restaurants Timber City Ginger Beer Washington Sea Grant Xtratuf FJORD

Know your

OYS T ER S

Terrence Allison photo

The not so secret secret to good oysters – is safe handling. From the moment you purchase, insure that they are kept cold and fresh – on ice or covered with a damp cloth in the fridge to keep them moist. Fresh oysters must be alive just before consumption or cooking. Tap on the shell– a live oyster will close up and is safe to eat.

Olympia

The native oyster to Washington State, the Olympia oyster is a half dollar size with a metallic finish. The Olympia oyster fishery ran from the mid-1800s until about 1915 supplying California’s demand for oysters. The oysters were harvested from shallow bays of southern Puget Sound and Willapa Bay until pollution and over harvesting caused a collapse of the wild fishery.

Pacific

Native to Japan, farmers began experimenting with the Pacific oyster in 1904. Washington began importing seed in commercial quantities

in the 1930s. This practice of importing seed lasted for over 45 years. The Pacific is now the most important commercial species on the West Coast. Beginning in the 1950s researchers began to study Pacific reproduction to reduce the dependence on seed imports. Since the 1970s local shellfish growers have relied on hatcheries for the production to meet the demand for NW oysters.

limited supply has growers altering growing practices to create cupped Pacific oysters to meet half shell market demands. Growers use flip or tumble bags to chip the shell of the Pacific and force it into a deeper cup. Specialty oysters with names such as Kusshi, Shigoku, Sea Cow, Blue Pools, Chelsea Gems, and Baywater Sweets, are the result.

Kumamoto

Virginica

The Kumamoto has a small deep cup and a sweet meat that is prized by raw oyster consumers. Brought to WA from Japan’s Kumamoto Prefecture, they are unable to reproduce in Northwest waters so growers rely exclusively on hatchery stock. The prized cup of the Kumamoto oyster and its

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The decline of the Olympia oyster opened the door for the import of the Virginica from the east coast in the early 1900s. The eastern oysters did not adapt well to NW waters and experienced large die off when transplanted. There are still beds of Virginicas raised by WA shellfish farmers.

How does your oyster grow? Have you ever wondered how the same species of oyster, Pacific for example, can have such varied flavors or textures? Like different wines with a terrior, oysters have a merrior – growing area and method make all the difference! Not all beaches are created equal – some are muddy, some sandy and some rocky. Each type of growing ground has opportunities and limitations for success. Oysters grown on top of muddy ground often sink into the mud suffocating them for they aren’t able to circulate water and food into their bodies. Muddy bays have led to culture techniques that suspend the oysters above the mud such as long lines, stakes, suspended nets, and racks and bags. Firm sandy and rocky bays allow for oysters to be grown on the bottom as well as using the off bottom techniques described for muddy areas.

In addition to substrate type, location of the oysters on the beach will determine how long the oyster will take to achieve a marketable size. Oysters grown in the intertidal area are exposed to daily tidal inundation will have well developed adductor muscles and thicker shells thus being heartier for shipment. Oysters suspended in the water column for growing will have the benefit of a constant food source and thus grow quickly but will have delicate shells and be susceptible to the elements. (continued next page)

MARSHALL SAN FRANCISCO NAPA HUMBOLDT

Bay to Bar Since 1983 At HOG ISLAND OYSTER CO., we take great care in everything that we do– from cultivating shellfish, to respecting our environment, to presenting our product to you. We call it our Bay to Bar philosophy, where every step is important in cultivating the best oyster experience possible. HOG ISLAND OYSTER CO. IS A CERTIFIED B CORPORATION People Using Business As A Force For Good

hogislandoysters.com 17

FJORD

The method of growth can greatly change the shape of the oyster. A Pacific allowed to grow naturally on the beach will have a sturdy irregular shell with a great deal of frills. The regular exposure to low tide exposure, strengthening the shell, protects the meat from heat and predators like sea stars and crabs. In Europe, where there is very limited tidal change, some farmers manually pull the oysters from the water for periods of time to mimic the tidal action. The tumble bag creates an altered but very marketable shape for cultured oysters. Oysters are placed in the bag as small seed and the tide does the rest. The tidal flip and roll chip off the fragile off the fragile shell lips and force the oyster to curve. The result is a deep cup in its lower shell. Often times suspended oysters are placed in the high energy inter-tidal environment for a few weeks prior to market to harden the shells for shipment and condition the oysters to hold their shells shut.

Pacific oysters grown in Willapa Bay have a different â&#x20AC;&#x153;merriorâ&#x20AC;? from those grown in Samish Bay. Hood Canal oysters are claimed to be more briny than the sweeter cucumber flavored bivalves grown in Hammersley Inlet or South Puget Sound waterways. Just like the well attuned vintners of the Rhone Valley, oyster connoisseurs are able to detect the subtleties of each bay by tasting the meat and observing the shell. Can you taste the difference?

Each bay has its own selection of phytoplankton yielding oysters with different meat colors and flavors.

Shelton Shellfish Market 130 SE Lynch RD Shelton, WA 98584 (360) 432-3300 Monday - Sunday 10am - 6pm

Oysters - Clams - Mussels Geoduck - Smoked Salmon FJORD 18

We Like To See You Smile!

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Adventure in your backyard! Cresting the hill northward on 101 returning to Shelton still gives me goosebumps. The majestic line of towering mountains reminds me of why my family was drawn to set roots in the area. Spectacular ranges with forests laced with trails and recreation areas; unspoiled waterways – teeming with life – all reasons to be filled with pride. It’s easy to pack your days with fun, free things to do locally – whether you thrill at experiencing one of the unique community festivals, a hike in the great outdoors, or perhaps jumping out of a plane at 10,000 feet – pick an adventure and start making memories! A day’s exploration of the Olympic National Forest, literally in our backyard, can take you from breathtaking mountain vistas with meadows of wildflowers to

colorful ocean tide-pools. A walk on the beach at low tide gathering dinner; a hike to some dramatic waterfalls through moss laden wonder lands; perhaps, simply an afternoon paddle. The southern portion of Hood Canal near Hoodsport provides recreation near Lake Cushman, the Hamma Hamma and South Fork Skokomish Rivers, and access to Wonder Mountain, Mount Skokomish and the southern part of The Brothers Wildernesses.

High elevation lakes such as Elk, Jefferson, Lena, or Mildred Lakes provide opportunities for camping and fishing. Take a short hike within old growth forest around Spider Lake, or climb the challenging Mt. Rose Trail for views of Hood Canal, the Olympics, and the Cascades. No matter whether you are wanting adventure, family fun – or a quiet day relaxing – you are 15 minutes from creating the next amazing life experience – year round!

Clear your mind and go find a waterfall Lake Kokanee Falls is just one of the many falls waiting to be explored. The best time to view area waterfalls is in the Spring while the weather is warmer but there is still plenty of run off from the mountains. photo: George Stenberg

State Park Free Days Don’t miss upcoming 2017 State Park free days. On these days, the Discover Pass is not required to visit a state park.

High Steel Bridge

Soaring 420 feet above the Skokomish River – the High Steel Bridge (1929) is the highest steel truss arch bridge in Washington. You won’t event need to leave the car for this breathtaking view. Follow Skokomish Valley Rd and continue a total of 11 miles from U.S. 101 to reach the bridge. photo: George Stenberg

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April 15 — Spring day April 22 — Earth Day June 3 — National Trails Day June 10 — National Get Outdoors Day Aug. 25 — National Parks 101st Birthday Sept. 30 — National Public Lands Day Nov. 11 — Veterans Day Nov. 24 — Autumn day A Discover Pass will still be required on these days to access lands managed by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. discoverpass.wa.gov.

Take a leap!

Feeling adventurous? Next time your looking to wow the most blasé of guests consider skydiving. The folks at Kapowsin at the Shelton airport have had plenty of time to perfect the art of extreme experiences. Views of the fjord and the Olympics and a seven minute free fall adrenaline rush from 13,000 feet will definitely change the course of your day.

AGE: There is no limit to what age you can jump as long as you are in good physical condition, but you must be 18 years of age to skydive in the US.

SAFETY: All skydivers carry a second parachute if the first neglects to deploy. COST: Tandem flights $185-$215. In tandem flights an instructor wears the chute and guides you so you can enjoy the view! Call Kapowsin Air Sports (360) 432-8000 for details.

Paddle Harder

Kayaking and canoing is a great way to destress

– Not just in Hood Canal but also consider launching at Arcadia Point and paddle (10 minutes) to Hope Island State Park. Covered with old-growth forests, the park features a mile of beaches, nature trails & friendly deer. Don’t have a canoe or kayak? There are rentals available all along Hood Canal! Check out Lake Cushman and Lake Cushman

photos: jeremy chevalier, theperfectdive.com

Resort for a full selection of adventures and options.

PHOTO: TOBY TAHJA-SYRETT

Dive Deeper

The unique formation and striations of the Hood Canal fjord allows for some plentiful and colorful wildlife diversity. Thanks to some accessible protected preserves, scuba divers travel from all over to explore the rich waters and crevasses. Giant octopi, friendly & curious wolf eels, and swarms of ancient rock cod add to the wonder.

TO TRY:

Scuba lessons, rentals (including air), and charters are available at locations long the north shore of the Hood Canal. Visit the directory page 24 and view some great images at theperfectdive.com for information. 21 FJORD

Olympic National Park Sees Rise in Visitation During 2016

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With a total of 3,390,221 visits Olympic National Park was the seventh most visited park in the country during 2016. Campaigns in 2016 introduced new audiences to the breadth of the national park system. The NPS centennial combined with programs, such as “Every Kid in a Park” helped drive the increase in visitation as well. “I continue to be inspired by

the number of people from across the country and around the world that visit Olympic.” said Superintendent Sarah Creachbaum, “visitors coming to Olympic play an important role in contributing to the local economy and we are happy to have the partnership and support of our neighbors.” The NPS reported 330,971,689 visits in 2016—up by 23.7 million visits (7.7%) over 2015.

National Park Week Fee Waiver Days Visit the Olympic National Park on the following dates for free entrance: April 15-16 and April 22-23. The fee waiver includes entrance fees, commercial tour fees, and transportation entrance fees. Other fees such as reservation, camping, tours, concession and fees collected by third parties are not included.

MGH VirtualCare 7.5x5”FjordAd cmyk 3’17

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In addition, any fourth grade student can get a free annual pass through the Every Kid in a Park program, and active duty military and citizens with a permanent disability can also get free passes. For more information about the variety of discounted passes available, visit the America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands at nps.gov/planyourvisit.

Head to the Shores With a salt water canal at its center and a myriad of lakes, waterfalls and streams surrounding the inner fingers of Puget Sound – this area is rich in aquaculture and water related opportunities. It’s time to start planning your outdoor adventures!

If you harvest clams or oysters, make sure to keep them on ice or eat them soon after harvest. DOH advises that shellfish recreationally harvested from June through September, should be cooked thoroughly to avoid illness from Vibriosis. It is best practice to read posted warnings or call the Marine Toxins/PSP Hotline: 1-800-562-5632 for a recorded message that is updated regularly. Visit the Shellfish Safety Map at doh. wa.gov/ShellfishSafety. There is also a mobile friendly version of the map at doh.wa.gov/shellfishmobilemap. Clam and oyster season are beach specific and may change annually. Always Check BEFORE you dig.

South Puget Sound

Hope Island State Park, Boat access only. Oysters are incidental at this site but clamming can be quite good. This beach is a very popular place to dig for geoducks. A tide lower than -2.0 feet is best for geoducks. Most of the oysters are on the west side of the island near the south end. The season only open for the month of May. North Bay – Abundant Manila clams and an enhanced oyster bed. The season here is short and locked into May and September under terms of a shoreline agreement. Oakland Bay Tideland, – Open year-round, good shore access with parking. Manila clams and oysters can be found here.

Hood Canal

Belfair State Park – Excellent beach for oysters and Manila clams can be found here. Potlatch State Park – Seasonally open - oysters and a variety of clam species. Clams, mussels and oysters open April 1 through August 31 Lilliwaup State Park – Open year-round, excellent for oysters and native clams. Clamming

Shellfish Gathering Prepare yourself with buckets, boots, license and check the tides & harvest map. Local State Parks support a healthy stock of clams and oysters for license holders – free for the taking! PHOTO: Tom Michalski | Beach tours with Sea Grant guides and U-Pick oysters & clam gathering at Hama Hama’s Oyster Rama.

is difficult due to the cobble substrate, but the beach is abundant with butter clams. Rendsland Creek – Open year-round, excellent for oysters and a variety of clams can be found here although not in great densities. Twanoh State Park – Open year-round for oysters and seasonally for clams, check season before harvesting. Good beach for Manila clams. DNR 33, 47 & 48 – Are boat access only beaches, open year-round for clams and oysters. Eagle Creek – Open year-round for oysters and seasonally for clams, check seasons before harvesting. This is an excellent oyster beach. Triton Cove State Park – There is very little clam resource on this beach, but there are good numbers of year-round oysters. Dosewallips State Park – This is an excellent beach for clams. The best areas are in the mid-upper tidal zone in mixed sand and gravel substrate. Productive digging is also found around and among the oysters, an area often overlooked by harvesters. Please take care not to cover oysters with sand and mud as this will potentially kill the oysters.

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QUILCENE

5 6

3O7

KINGSTO 7

1. Henery Hardware - Quilcene 2. Quilcene Village Store 3. Munn Bros Hood Canal Properties 4. Twana Road House 5. Gear Head Deli 6. Mount Walker Inn 7. Cove RV Park & Country Store 8. Kayak Brinnon 9. Brinnon Visitor’s Center 10. Whitney Gardens and Nursery 11. Brinnon General Store 12. Geoduck Family Restaurant 13. The Historic Balch Retreat 14. Pleasant Harbor Marina 15. Mike’s Beach Resort & Diving 16. Hama Hama Oyster Co. 17. Eagle Creek Saloon 18. Lilliwaup Motel 19. Lilliwaup Store 20. Creekside Inn 21. The Tides Family Restaurant 22. Rest-A-While RV Park & Marina 23. Glen Ayr Resort, Motel & RV Park 24. Sunrise Motel & Dive 25. Blue Horizons Paddlesports

101

HOODSPORT 14

Hoodsport 34

33 an Rd ushm d li l R H 40 se

Sch oolh ou

CUSHMAN 29

d Ca

BELFAIR

TAHUYA

57 58

60 61

101

UNION

38. The Hardware Distillery 39. Hood Canal Outfitters/Shell Gas 40. Hoodsport Regional Library 41. Olympic Stove & Spa 42. Stottle Winery Tasting Room 43. Octopus Garden Jewelry 44. IGA Grocery Store 45. Port of Hoodsport Marina 46. Hood Sport N’ Dive

101

54 Lucky Dog Casino (360) 877-5656 19330 Hwy 101, Skokomish | Casino 15 Mike’s Beach Resort & Diving (360) 877-5324 | 38470 Hwy 101, Hoodsport

Pleasant Harbor Marina Resort (360) 796-4611 | 308913 US-101, Brinnon

58 Union Paddle and Row (360) 359-3308 5101 E SR 106, Union | rentals/tours

70 71

47. El Puerto de Angeles Restaurant 48. Hoodsport Winery & Tasting Room 49. The Waterfront at Potlatch 50. Peterson Art Gallery 51. Kelsey’s All Natural 52. Patti’s Seafood Store 53. Twin Totems Store/Shell Gas 54. Lucky Dog Casino/NorthFork Grill 55. Skokomish Center/ Museum

ALLYN GRAPEVIEW 56. Hunter Farms & Visitor Center 57. Kari’s Collectibles 58. Union Paddle and Row 59. 2 Margaritas Restaurant 60. Hood Canal Marina 61. Union City Market 62. Union Country Store 63. The Bend on Hood Canal 64 Robin Hood Village

58 Whitney Gardens and Nursery (360) 796-4411 306264 US-101, Brinnon

16 65. Robin Hood Restaurant & Pub 66. Alderbrook Country Store/Texaco Gas 67. Our Community Credit Union 68. Union Square Deli 69. Cameo Boutique Wine Shop & Cottages 70. Alderbrook Resort & Spa 71. Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club 72. Alderbrook Clubhouse Grille 73. Harmony Hill Retreat Center

FJORD 24 For directory addition, updates, and/or deletion please contact Rachel at 360-427-5599.

SHELTON

VASHO ISLAND

55 Skokomish Tribal Center & Museum (360) 426-4232 80 N Tribal Center Rd, Skokomish

67 65

28 Lake Cushman Golf Course 160 (360) 877-5505 | 210 N Fairway Dr W, Hoodsport

POTLATCH 51

73 Harmony Hill Retreat Center (360) 898-2363 | 7362 E SR 106, Union

27 Lake Cushman Resort (360) 877-9630 4621 N Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport | rentals

INFO

BAINBR ISLAND

8 Kayak Brinnon (360) 796-4116 251 Hjelvicks Rd, Brinnon

HOODSPORT

3 Blue Horizons Paddlesports (253) 256-1887 | 14008 N Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport | Kayak rentals/tours 25

55 Hunter Farms & Visitor Center (360) 426-2222 | 1921 E SR 106, Union

Alderbrook Resort & Spa (360) 898-2200 | 7101 E SR 106, Union

40 Hoodsport Library (360) 877-9339 40 N Schoolhouse Hill Rd, Hoodsport | WiFi

20 22 21

43 45 46

LILLIWAUP

Hood Sport N’ Dive (360) 877-6818 24080 Hwy 101, Hoodsport | Scuba

71 Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club (360) 898-2575 | 330 Country Club Dr, Union

Lake C

ACTIVITY

60 Hood Canal Marina (360) 898-2252 5101 E SR 106, Union | Tours and moorage

nal

Hoo

26. Skokomish Park at Lake Cushman 8 27. Lake Cushman Resort & General Store 28. Lake Cushman Golf Course COYLE 29. Lake Cushman Grocery Store 30. Dow Creek Resort 9 31. The Girls Café 10 32. Visitor Information Center 11 33. The Burger Stand 34. Columbia Bank 12 BRINNON 35. Hoodsport Coffee Co. 36. Model T Pub & Eatery 13 37. Laurie’s Gift & Liquor Store

TACO

CONVENIENCE STORES/ GAS STATIONS

Alderbrook Country Store (360) 898-7400 1031 E McReavy Rd, Union | Texaco Gas 66

Hood Canal Outfitters (360) 877-9444 24171 Hwy 101, Hoodsport 39

Quilcene Village Store (360) 765-0190 294235 US-101 2

Twin Totems Store (360) 427-9099 19390 Hwy 101, Skokomish | Shell Gas 53

RIDGE GROCERY D 11

ON D

OMA

Brinnon General Store (360) 796-4400 306413 US-101, Brinnon 7

Cove RV Park & Country Store (360) 796-4723 | 303075 US-101, SEATTLE Brinnon Hama Hama Oyster Co. (888) 877-5844 35846 Hwy 101, Lilliwaup 16

Hunter Farms (360) 426-2222 1921 E SR 106, Union 55

IGA Grocery Store (360) 877-9444 24151 Hwy 101, Hoodsport 44

Lake Cushman General Store (360) 877-9630 4621 N Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport 27 28

Lake Cushman Grocery 2550 N Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport Lilliwaup Store (360) 877-0002 28621 Hwy 101, Hoodsport 19

Patti’s Seafood (360) 490-6994 19670 Hwy 101, Skokomish 52

Quilcene Village Store (360) 765-0190 294235 US-101 2

Union City Market (360) 898-3500 5101 E State Route 106, Union | year round 61

Union Country Store (360) 898-2641 5130 E SR 106, Union | Summer only 62

DINING

2 Margaritas Restaurant (360) 898-2462 5121 E SR 106, Union 59 72

Alderbrook Clubhouse Grille (360) 898-2560

330 Country Club Dr E, Union 70

Kelsey’s All Natural (360) 877-5696 21391 US-101, Skokomish 51

36 Model T Pub & Eatery (360) 877-9883 24281 Hwy 101, Hoodsport

54 NorthFork Grill (360) 877-2300 Lucky Dog Casino, 19330 Hwy 101, Skokomish 14 Pleasant Harbor Marina Resort (360) 796-4611 | 308913 US-101, Brinnon

65 Robin Hood Restaurant (360) 898-4400 6790 E SR 106, Union 33 The Burger Stand (360) 877-6122 24311 Hwy 101, Hoodsport

31 The Girls Café (360) 877-9000 2440 N Lake Cushman Rd, Hwy 119, Hoodsport

21 The Tides Family Restaurant (360) 877-8921 27061 Hwy 101, Hoodsport 4 Twana Road House (360) 765-6485 94793 US-101, Quilcene

68 Union Square Deli & Espresso (360) 898-3354 | 310 E Dalby Rd, Suite 100, Union

INFORMATION

9 Brinnon Visitor’s Center (360) 796-4350 306144 US-101, Brinnon 32 Hoodsport Visitor Info (800) 576-2021 (360) 877-2021 | 150 N Lk Cushman Rd, Hoodsport 55 Hunter Farms Visitor Center (360) 426-2222 1921 E SR 106, Union 3 Munn Bros Hood Canal Properties (360) 765-4500 | 294843 US-101, Quilcene

RETAIL

69 Cameo Boutique & Wine Shop (360) 898-3200 | 6871 E SR 106, Union

Henery Hardware (360) 765-3113 294382 US-101, Quilcene 1

Hood Canal Outfitters (360) 877-9444 24171 Hwy 101, Hoodsport 39

Kari’s Collectibles (360) 898-0277 4941 E SR 106, Union 57

Laurie’s Gift & Liquor (360) 877-5252 24230 Hwy 101, Hoodsport 37

Alderbrook Resort & Spa (360) 898-5500

43 Octopus Garden Jewelry (360) 877-5530 24202 Hwy 101, Hoodsport

Eagle Creek Saloon (360) 877-6729

Olympic Stove & Spa (360) 877-5200 24202 Hwy 101, Hoodsport

7101 E SR 106, Union 17

35 Hoodsport Coffee Co. (360) 877-6732 24240 Hwy 101, Hoodsport

31281 Hwy 101, Lilliwaup

El Puerto de Angeles Restaurant (360) 877-5921 | 24080 Hwy 101, Hoodsport 47

LODGING

55 Alderbrook Resort & Spa (360) 898-2200 7101 E SR 106, Union

Cameo Boutique Cottages (360) 490-7006 6871 E SR 106, Union

Gear Head Deli (360) 301-3244 294963 US-101, Quilcene

Cove RV Park & Country Store

(360) 796-4723 | 303075 US-101, Brinnon 20 Creekside Inn (360) 877-9686 27131 Hwy 101, Hoodsport 30 Dow Creek Resort (360) 877-5022 2670 N. Lake Cushman Road, Hoodsport 23 Glen Ayr Resort, Motel & RV Park (360) 877-9522, 25381 Hwy 101, Hoodsport 73 Harmony Hill Retreat Center (360) 898-2363 7362 E SR 106, Union 27 Lake Cushman Resort (360) 877-9630 4621 N Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport 19 Lilliwaup Motel (360) 877-0002 28621 Hwy 101, Hoodsport 15 Mike’s Beach Resort (360) 877-5324 38470 Hwy 101, Hoodsport 6 Mount Walker Inn (360) 765-3410 61 Maple Grove Rd, Quilcene 22 Rest-A-While RV Park (360) 877-9474 27001 Hwy 101, Hoodsport

Robin Hood Village (360) 898-2163 6780 SR 106, Union 64

26 Skokomish Park at Lake Cushman (360) 877-5760 | 7211 N Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport 24 Sunrise Motel & Dive (360) 877-5301 24520 Hwy 101, Hoodsport 63 The Bend on Hood Canal (360) 490-5545 253 E Great Bend Drive, Union 13 The Historic Balch Retreat (360) 271-3629 307331 Hwy 101, Brinnon 49 The Waterfront at Potlatch (360) 877-9422 21660 Hwy 101, Hoodsport

WINE/SPIRITS

69 Cameo Boutique & Wine Shop (360) 898-3200 | 6871 E SR 106, Union 48 Hoodsport Winery & Tasting Room (360) 877-9508 | N 23501 Hwy 101, Hoodsport 42 Stottle Winery Tasting Room (360) 877-2247 | 24180 Hwy 101, Hoodsport 38 The Hardware Distillery & Tasting Room (206) 300-0877 | 24210 Hwy 101, Hoodsport

BANKS/CREDIT UNIONS

67 Our Community Credit Union (OCCU) (800) 426-5657 | 320 E Dalby Rd, Ste A, Union

34 Columbia Bank (360) 877-5272 | 24341 Hwy 101, Hoodsport

US POST OFFICES

Brinnon 144 Brinnon Ln, Brinnon Hoodsport 76 N Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport Geoduck Family Restaurant (360) 796-4430 Lilliwaup 8621 Hwy 101, Lilliwaup 307103 US-101, Brinnon Quilcene 294843 US-101, Quilcene 16 Hama Hama Oyster Co. (888) 877-5844 Union 310 E Dalby Rd, Union 25 FJORD 35846 Hwy 101, Lilliwaup 69

Let Hood Canal take you away to another part of the world. At least, that is what happened last summer. In July of 2016, Teri King of Washington Sea Grant documented a tremendous bloom of Coccolithiphores in Hood Canal from Lilliwaup to Quilcene that had transformed the waters into a turquoise hue visible from space. Common in the subpolar regions, these singled celled microscopic plankton are plated with up to 30 hubcap like scales of white calcium carbonate, and dominate in quiet still, nutrient poor waters where other plankton are starving. Coccoliths multiply rapidly when conditions are right shedding the plates as they bloom causing the amazing blue hue. Other than out competing all of the phytoplankton in the water column, these beautiful blooms have not been documented to cause harm to sea life directly. In Alaska’s Bering Sea, Coccolithiphores have been shown to inhibit the fishing of diving seabirds, blinding them from seeing their prey as they hover over the water. Hood Canal had another smaller isolated bloom of Coccolithiphores in 2007, but the bloom in 2016 lasted for nearly two months to the delight of visitors.

Visible from space, the NASA earth observatory satellites were able to document the movement of the bloom from its origination in the calm, nutrient poor waters of Quilcene Bay down south around the Big Bend and into Belfair and north towards Port Townsend. Through the Bivalves for Clean Water Facebook Page, King and her colleagues documented the movement of the bloom alerting the residents and businesses along the Canal to keep a keen eye out. The bloom was so dramatic that the NASA Earth Observatory made it the photo of the day on July 24, 2016. Not every milky blue hued water change is due to a Coccolithiphore bloom, it could be related to snowmelt runoff from the peaks of the Olympics which carries fine silt, also changing the water color.

eoimages.gsfc.nasa.gov

Cocco Bloom

NASA image of Coccoliths bloom on Hood Canal

The SoundToxins partnership, a citizen science phytoplankton monitoring program throughout the Salish Sea documents harmful algal blooms, unusual bloom events, and new species. The program managed by Washington Sea Grant and the NOAA Northwest Fisheries Science Center plays a critical role to alert state health officials to changing harmful algae levels protecting huma health, reducing economic loss and identifying Coccolithiphore blooms.

TH E SKOOKU M R OTARY FOUNDATION PROUDLY PRESENT THE

36TH ANNUA L WA SHIN G T ON S TAT E S EA FOOD FES T I VAL

October 7 – 8, 2017

Shelton, Wash

S P EED & HALF-SHELL SHUCKI NG CHAMPIONSHIP • SEAF OOD/ NON- SEAF OOD VENDORS S E A F O OD COOK-OFF • WA STAT E W I N E & MICROBREW TASTING • L IVE MUSIC ON TWO STAGES E D UCAT I ONAL EX HI BI T S & KI DS’ ACTIVITIES • RV CAMPING • F REE SHUTTL E SERVICE

OYSTERFEST.ORG FJORD 26

Anchors Away Since long before the first European explorers sailed among the islands and bays of the Salish Sea, the tribes fished, hunted and lived off the abundant wild plants, animals and bounty of the sea.

Today, the cold, clear waters of South Puget Sound still provide a harvest of salmon and shellfish. The great depths of Hood Canal – more than 600 feet deep – produce an annual shrimp catch that has become a late-spring ritual going back many generations – See page 32 for info on Brinnon’s ShrimpFest, a weekend long festival celebration the annual return of this prized fishery. Oysters can be found on many public beaches of Hood Canal and South Puget Sound, and those lucky enough to own a waterfront home in the area often gather, eat or farm their own shellfish. Several state and county parks allow shellfish gathering – see page 23. Following is a list of boat launches and marinas. Three of the county’s state parks, Stretch Point, Hope Island, and McMicken Island, offer boat access only.

Boat Launches & Marinas

Shelton Marina & Yacht Club (360) 426-9476 | Shelton, WA Public launch ramp, gas dock

South Puget Sound

Arcadia Point The Squaxin Tribe owns this launching site, which is open to the public.

Allyn Waterfront Dock & Park (360) 275-2430 | Allyn, WA Marina features launch ramps, moorage and pump-out. Park includes gazebo and play area. Fair Harbor Marina (360) 426-4028 | Grapeview, WA Services include fuel dock, moorage, store, espresso, showers and restrooms. Latimer’s Landing on Pickering Passage Harstine Island, WA Located adjacent to the Harstine Island bridge. By car take Pickering Rd off State Route 3. Jarrell Cove (800) 362-8823 | Harstine Island, WA Overnight and permanent moorage, pump-out, RV sites, fuel dock, store, and beach. Jarrell Cove State Park Harstine Island, WA | parks.wa.gov Moorage dock and buoys, pump-out station, tent sites, toilets, showers.

Hope Island State Park Buoys, floats and docks offer tie-ups for access to a 106-acre marine camping island park.

Hood Canal

Port of Allyn North Shore Dock & Launch (360) 372-2408 | portofallyn.com Launch ramp and dock, marine pump-out. Twanoh State Park Between Belfair and Union, WA | parks.wa.gov Double boat launching ramp and parking area Hood Canal Marina (360) 898-2252 | Union, WA Privately owned marina open to the public. Rest-A-While Marina & Dive Center (360) 877-9122 | Hoodsport, WA Boat launch, moorage, storage and rentals. SummerTide Resort & Marina (360) 275-9313 | Tahuya, WA Lodging, RV space, boat rentals and supplies

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Linger longer in our towns Photo: George Stenberg Photography

ALLYN (ON CASE INLET)

Allyn House Inn | 18350 State Route 3, Allyn | 535-2198 | allynhouseinn.com

BELFAIR (ON HOOD CANAL)

SHELTON AREA LODGING

*Phone number area code 360, unless otherwise specified. FJORD 28

ALLYN, located in the protected waters of the

South Sound, is famous for kayaking and boating on Case Inlet. Stop in for a selection of restaurants and shops including a unique chainsaw carving retail outlet, Bear in the Box.

BELFAIR is nestled in the tip of Hood Canal.

Belfair hosts local and chain restaurants along with major grocery stores and many small local shops. Belfair is the last major retail zone when approaching Hood Canal from the east.

UNION is renowned as an artists’ haven. With a

range of lodging – from quaint cottages to inclusive resorts, the town was recognized as a “Prettiest Town in America.” Stop by the Union City Market for local produce and gifts including oysters and clams to take home.

SHELTON is the westernmost city on Puget

Sound. Shelton was once served by a fleet of steamboats. Traveling down Hammersley inlet on the tidal currents, these ships delivered supplies. Tugboats still ride these tides to deliver throughout Puget Sound. There is no shortage of dining in Shelton. From milkshakes at Nita’s Cafe to sushi at Osaka’s and everything in between – a steak at the Strip; BBQ at Mo’s. All are located on Railroad Avenue in downtown Shelton.

CUSHMAN

is a 4,010-acre lake at the top of the Skokomish River above the west shore of Hood Canal. Popular for hiking, fishing, swimming, boating and kayaking, The shoreline is dotted with campgrounds, resorts and rental cabins. The lake is notable for its beautiful crystal clear blue water and the huge round rocks surrounding it.

HOODSPORT is perched on Hood

SKOKOMISH TOURISM

Canal’s west shore and is particulary famous to SCUBA divers. Be sure to stop at Hoodsport Coffee for a coffee or the perennial favorite, Olympic Mountain ice cream. The Hardware Distillery, on the main street in town, offers daily tours & tastings.

POTLATCH is located on the western

shore of the Great Bend of Hood Canal, near the mouth of the Skokomish River. Potlatch State Park is camping park with 5,700-feet of saltwater shoreline. Check out the Peterson Art Gallery north of town for some original and inspired native artwork.

LILLIWAUP is located at the mouth of

ENTERTAINMENT & DINING 19330 N. US HWY 101 • Skokomish, WA 98584 360.877.5656 • MyLuckyDogCasino.com

FUEL 19392 N. US HWY 101 • Skokomish, WA 98584 360.877.2024

Lilliwaup Creek. Highway 101 passes through the small town. With a shop, post office, and motel, this makes a great stop for ice cream!

LODGING & RV SITES

BRINNON is located on the Hood

25381 N. US HWY 101 • Hoodsport, WA 98548 360.877.9522 • GlenAyr.com

Canal waterfront. Here you will find food and shops. Be sure to stop in and visit the seven acres of heritage plants at Whitney Gardens.

QUILCENE is located on the Olympic

Peninsula along the Hood Canal and is a friendly community of approximately 600 people. Here you will find stores, restaurants and even espresso! There is much to see and do with the nearby Olympic National Forest with the Mount Walker access. The Big and Little Quilcene Rivers flow through town.

21660 N. US HWY 101 • Potlatch, WA 98584 360.877.9422 • wfresort.com

BOAT LAUNCH 21451 N. US HWY 101 • Potlatch, WA 98584

CAMPING, RV SITES & BOAT LAUNCH 7211 N. Lake Cushman Rd. • Hoodsport, WA 98548 360.877.5760 • SkokomishPark.com

S ko ko m i s hTo u r i s m . c o m

CUSHMAN/HOODSPORT/LILLIWAUP Mike’s Beach Resort | 38470 Hwy 101, Lilliwaup | 877-5324 | mikesbeachresort.com

Alice’s Little Beach House | waterfront in Eldon | 877-9226

Creekside Inn | 27131 Hwy 101, Hoodsport | 877-9686 | creeksideinn-wa.com

Sunrise Motel & Dive Resort | 24520 Hwy 101, Hoodsport | 877-5301

Glen Ayr Waterfront Resort | 25381 Hwy 101, Hoodsport | 877-9522 | glenayr.com

Waterfront at Potlatch | 21660 Hwy 101 | 877-9422 | thewaterfrontatpotlatch.com

Lake Cushman Resort | 4621 N Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport | 877-9630 lakecushman.com

Yellow House | 23891 Hwy 101, Hoodsport | 877-6818 | hoodsportndive.com

Lilliwaup Motel | 28621 Hwy 101, Lilliwaup | 877-0002

*Phone number area code 360, unless otherwise specified.

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Strai

Port Angeles

Port Townsend

101

Sequim

Elwha

Sol Duc Hoh Rain Forest

Quilcene

Olympic National Park

PACI CEAN FIC O

101

Lilliwaup

Hoodsport

101

Bremerton

Port Orchard

Belfair

Union

Seattle

Coyle

Cushman

Matlock

Brinnon

CA N

Quinault Rain Forest

Kalaloch

Allyn

Gig Harbor

Shelton Aberdeen

BRINNON/QUILCENE

101

*Phone number area code 360, unless otherwise specified.

Pleasant Harbor Sunrise

North

HO OD

Forks

CANADA

de F uca

Fe r r y

Juan

Photographer, George Stenberg captured this image this winter near Brinnion. ToFJORD 30 see more of Stenbergâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fine art prints, visit flickr.com/photos/georgestenberg.

Sea-Tac Airport

Tacoma 5

Kamiliche

Olympia

10 Kilometers

10 Miles

INTERROREM CABIN

Built in 1907 as the first administrative site of the Olympic National Forest located near Brinnon. It is available for just $50/night per group (composting outdoor toilet). Fees are used for the preservation of the cabin. For reservations call 1-877-444-6777 or visit recreation.gov

MAY 19 – 21 | SHELTON

EVENT PREVIEW

BLUEGRASS FROM THE FOREST Non-stop jamming and music for all ages at this three day festival.

Bluegrass from the Forest

What started as a small town event hosted by Kristmas Town Kiwanis has grown into a must-see music weekend festival drawing nationally renowned talent. Bluegrass from the Forest will again be held at the Shelton High School Campus on May 19-21. The idea was hatched in the Shelton Lumbermen’s parking by Duane Wilson and Greg Linder as a fundraiser to build toilet facilities at the local playing fields. Since then the event has sponsored a variety of community projects including stage improvements at Shelton High School. From its humble beginnings, Bluegrass families now turn out in hoards for the workshops and bands to this volunteer driven festival. “Though the bands are paid, and there are many expenses, it’s a labor of love for us who put it together - the payment is seeing the enjoyment on people’s faces,“ remarks Linder when asked what motivates the group.

As if the music isn’t enough, the festival includes camping for an experience you won’t soon forget. Grab your guitar, pack up your tent, and make a weekend out of it.

Children are divided into small groups based on musical ability and coached by advanced musicians.This program culminates with a performance on Sunday morning.

Saturday morning includes a Band Scramble. Names are drawn to form a random band that hopefully includes a bass, banjo, mandolin, guitar, and singer. They have 40 minutes to come up with a tune to perform on stage. It’s a great way to make some new friends, perform on stage, and possibly could lead to the formation of the next big bluegrass band!

No, instruments will not be eaten at the “Mandolin Tasting.” This event provides mandolin players the opportunity to gather around and play some very nice mandolins. This is less of a workshop on playing techniques and more about understanding the features that make a good instrument.

While you’re participating in the scramble, make sure your music-loving kids participate in the Chick Rose Youth School of Bluegrass. Founded by the late Chick Rose, the program teaches kids of all levels.

Not into mandolins? No worries! Marv Sobolesky hosts the Slow Jam and shares his knowledge with players of all skill levels. Popular fiddle tunes will be played slowly at first, and then repeated at a faster tempo as folks catch on to the jam.

WHERE: Shelton High School, 3737 North Shelton Springs Rd, Shelton COST: Weekend pass – $45.00 | Family weekend (up to 4 kids) – $90.00

31 FRI & SAT AFTER OR EVE $15 | SAT ALL DAY $25 | SUN – $15 | KIDS 12 - 17 HALF PRICE, UNDER 12 FREE

CAMPING – $20.00 WEEKEND, $10.00 PER DAY (DRY – PAY FOR THIS AT THE SITE)

This is a great (and fun!) way to improve your music playing abilities in a non-judgmental setting. As is tradition, hotdogs will be served at midnight on Saturday to help fuel the many musical jam sessions bound to happen. This year’s main stage line-up boasts Special Consensus, The Purple Hulls, Richard Bennet and Phil Ledbetter of Flashback, Whiskey Deaf, and Runaway Train Bluegrass Band. You can take in a single performance or buy tickets to jam out the entire weekend. Bring the kids along too; they get free or discounted pricing. For more information on schedule or to make your reservations visit bluegrassfromtheforest.com. We suspect you will all have a toe-tapping good time that you won’t soon forget. See you there! 31 bluegrassfromtheforest.com FJORD

Your one-stop complete hunting, boating, fishing & repair destination since 1948.

• Fishing tackle & gear • Hunting gear & optics • Guns & ammunition • Marine accessories

• Electronics • Parts & service department

• Crab & shrimp gear & bait • Razor clam gear & licenses • Fishing & hunting licenses • Discover Passes

• Northwest Forest Passes

741 West Golden Pheasant Road, Shelton, WA 98584 Phone: (360) 426-0933 Fax: (360) 427-0866

TOLL FREE: (877) 426-0933

A few of the Bluegrass from the Forest Performing Bands

THE SPECIAL CONSENSUS This four-person acoustic band with a repertoire that features traditional bluegrass, original compositions and songs from other musical genres. The band has released 18 recordings and has appeared on NPR programs

and television shows, including The Nashville Network and the Grand Ole Opry. The band recently released Scratch Gravel Road was GRAMMY which was nominated for Best Bluegrass Album.

THE PURPLE HULLS @VerlesLLC

Twins Katy Lou and Penny Lea Clark bring their acoustic country melodies to Shelton all the way from Kilgore, Texas, after touring as far afied as the Faroe Islands!

www.verles.com

WHISKEY DEAF We Make Good Impressions Printing | Promotions | Ofﬁce Supplies

Portland’s Whiskey Deaf, featuring singer-songwriter John Kael and nationally-acclaimed fiddler Annie Staninec , joins Bluegrass from the Forest to play traditional, old-time and early country music.

RUNAWAY TRAIN

The host band for Bluegrass from the Forest, this local group of dedicated performers play festivals, concerts, and private parties throughout the Northwest.

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Visit bluegrassfromtheforest.com for complete schedule updates and details.

Meet you on Hood Canal for

Shrimpest

Hosted by the Emerald Towns Alliance the festival began in 1993. Over the years, proceeds from the event have benefited local communities through donations to the Brinnon School and the Brinnon Volunteer Ambulance and Firefighters Association, Brinnon and Quilcene Community Centers and many other community projects.

BRINNON SHRIMPFEST Belt sander races, vendors, entertainment, shrimp & more ... shrimp!

SAT, M AY 27, 1 0 – 6 P M SUN , M AY 28, 1 0 – 5 P M $5 – KIDS/PA RKING FREE

Photo: Kimberlee Talbott

It is peaceful in the field between Yelvik General Store and the Cove RV Park & Country Store – most of the year. Located northbound on the last bend on Hwy 101 before you climb to the summit of Mount Walker; or southbound – the first time you see the water as you come down to the Canal, the grassy field stretches all the way to a protected bay and campground on the shore.

Located just three miles north of Brinnon, ShrimpFest is a two day festival celebrating Hood Canal spot shrimp (and other local seafood). The festival also features plenty of art and crafts for sale, a variety of food booths (everything you can imagine – including shrimp), exhibits, live music, kids activities, as well as the much celebrated belt sander races.

MAY 27 – 28

EVENT PREVIEW

Photo: Kimberlee Talbott

However, once a year, as Canada salutes her past Queen’s birthday, and America gets ready to celebrate Memorial Day, this unassuming pasture becomes a hive of activity with preparations for ShrimpFest.

SHRIMPFEST

The much anticipated Belt Sander Races have become an event staple. This is mostly a social sport and a whole lot of fun for everyone – participants and spectators! Show off how fast and uniquely decorated you’ve made your sander and have a good time. Two sanders are placed side-by-side, in parallel tracks, and turned on at the same time. The first one to hit the piece of wood at the end – wins. The first belt sander heat is noon Saturday. Be sure to bring along your favorite decorated belt sander to enter the races – there are prizes in plenty of categories. Competitors may also pay a fee and select a belt sander from the “fleet.” The competitions continue Sunday at noon as well. For details and schedule visit brinnonshrimpfest.org. Photo: Kimberlee Talbott

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Photo: Kimberlee Talbott

Entertainment

Entertainment at the 2017 ShrimpFest includes a variety of energetic bands and the talented and versatile solo performer, Greg Parke. Greg is skilled at engaging his audience – no matter what the age. His repertoire includes music and songs of every genre. Besides performing old favorites, he will play a selection of his original songs from his recently released CD. Greg looked back on a highlight for him at ShrimpFest 2016: “at one point the entire audience joined in to help me sing a chorus. I stopped playing my guitar for a moment, and you could hear all their voices echoing across the festival!” Greg Parke, along with Eric Miller, Locust Street Taxi, and the Old Sidekicks will be performing on the main stage Saturday and Sunday. Hungry? Your biggest problem will be where to begin your eating adventure at ShrimpFest. Following is a sampling of the foods that will be available: • Shrimp N Grits • Grilled Cajun Shrimp Skewers; • Smoked Deep Fried Hood Shrimp • Pan Fried Oysters • King Crab Legs • Dungeness Crab Leg Clusters • Crab Cakes • Shrimp Rolls • Fish Tacos • Shrimp Tacos • Hood Canal Shrimp Caesar • Shish Kabob • Pierogies • Gyros • Fish & Chips • Shrimp & Chips • Clam Strips FJORD 34

Crowds enjoy the variety of food vendors between musical sets at ShrimpFest (above). Giant paella of rice and seafood is just one of the dishes offered (below).

Photo: Kimberlee Talbott

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Salmon Caesar Salmon Burgers Seafood Paella w/Hood Canal Shrimp Meat Paella Veggie Paella Crab and Shrimp Melts Halibut Calamari Soft Shell Crab Sandwiches Chicken Strips Corn Dogs Clam chowder

The event draws over 12,000 visitors annually. Many choose to camp in the area so be sure to make reservations early for best availability.

ADMISSION is just $5.00/person,

parking and kids (12 and under with a paying adult) are free. Active Military and Veterans (with ID) are also admitted free of charge.

HOURS: Saturday, May 27,10:00 AM to 6:00 PM; Sunday, May 28, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Proceeds from ShrimpFest 2017 are donated to community. For schedule and information visit brinnonshrimpfest.org. Catch you at

Recreational shrimp opens May 6 on Hood Canal Spot shrimp, also known as prawns, are the largest shrimp in Puget Sound and may grow to nine inches in length. Fishers are limited to 80 spot shrimp per day and a valid fishing license is required. Hood Canal (Marine Area 12) will open May 6, 2017, for all shrimp species (including spot shrimp). Open days will be May 6, 10, 17 and 20 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Additional dates and times will be announced if sufficient quota remains after the initial fishing days scheduled above. Over 80 shrimp species inhabit Washington waters. However, only seven species are regularly captured for consumption by sport harvesters. Almost all sport shrimp harvest takes place in Puget Sound or its connecting waters. Puget Sound shrimp spawn in late summer. Eggs develop in the female prior to spawning, and can be seen as a dark band just under the shell.

Newly hatched shrimp larvae are small (about 3/16 of an inch, or 5mm), planktonic (free floating, unable to swim against currents), and bear only a superficial resemblance to adults. About three months after hatching, larvae start to take on the appearance and habits of adults. The larvae continue to develop, maturing as males within 18 months of hatching. They reproduce as males for one or two seasons before transforming into females for the next fall’s mating season. The proportion of shrimp changing sex from male to female varies from year-to year. A few individuals will skip the male phase and spend their entire lives as females. Recent studies indicate that increased fishing pressure or high

natural mortality can induce males to change into females at a younger age, or completely skip the male phase. Shrimp are found primarily on or near the bottom, but make daily migrations through the water column in search of food. They have been found at depths greater than 1,000 feet, but are most frequently captured at depths of 30 to 300 feet. Adult shrimp are omnivorous, feeding on marine worms, small crustaceans, large planktonic organisms, sponges, and dead animal and plant material. For information on sport shrimp seasons, or for a description of marine areas, visit wdfw.wa.gov.P

The perfect place to live and play! Alderbrook is a member-owned golf course that is also open to public play. Our clubhouse includes a restaurant, bar and golf shop. We’re proud of the food at the Club~House Grille. It’s a great place to stop in for food and brews after golf or for small private functions. Golf course & dining facilities open every day for golf, tournaments and special events including: corporate outings, banquets and weddings. Memberships are available. Call now for information:

(360) 898-2560 330 E. Country Club Drive Union, WA 98592

alderbrookGolf.com 35

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Deep fjords, clear lakes, high peaks Pull in a Prize Fish at a Local WA Lake Trout fishing in Washington reaches full speed April 22, when several hundred lowland lakes – stocked with millions of fish – open for a six-month season. The date marks the start of Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife's (WDFW) annual lowland lake fishing derby, which runs through Oct. 31. Licenses can be purchased online at fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov; by telephone at 1-866246-9453; or at hundreds of license dealers across the state.

Anglers who catch one of 1,000 tagged fish can also claim prizes provided by license dealers and other sponsors located across the state. The total value of prizes is more than $25,000. For a list of lakes with prize fish and details on how to claim prizes, visit wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/derby/. Hatchery crews have been stocking more than 16 million trout and kokanee in lakes statewide. Those fish include 2.3 million catchable trout, nearly 150,000 larger trout averaging about one pound a piece, and millions of smaller trout that were stocked last year and have grown to catchable size.

“Opening weekend is a time when success rates are likely to be higher,” says Thiesfeld. "When I was a kid, I had a difficult time sleeping the night before opening day. It's so exciting to get out there and fish, and opening weekend is just an excellent time to introduce fishing to kids and beginners," he adds. Thiesfeld encourages anglers to check "Fish Washington" for details on fishing. The map based webpage includes information by county, lake, and species throughout WA. Fishing regulations can also be found on WDFW's wdfw.wa.gov/fishing.

Aim for the Summit

The area is home to many mountain peaks accessible to a variety of itineraries and skill levels. Wilderness Information Unlike the solid granite in the Cascades Center (WIC) and other areas, Olympic rock formations are generally shale, sandstone, soft basalt or pillow lava and pose unique challenges for climbers. The Wildenerness Information Center can provide trip planning assistance, safety information, weather forecasts, tips and permits.

600 East Park Avenue Port Angeles, WA 98362 (360) 565-3100

Staircase Ranger Station

(360) 877-5569 | For trail conditions check nps.gov/olym.

Lost? Stay calm and think.

Stay put to be found sooner. Focus on keeping warm and dry. Rivers and creeks are often the most dangerous routes. Create a signal visible from the air. Lay brightly-colored clothing in a clearing.

Proudly Supporting Jobs and Local Prosperity Industrial Parks at Johns Prairie and Sanderson Field Airport Marina and aquaculture facilities on Oakland Bay at Shelton

The Port of Shelton is proud to support local industries including aquaculture & forestry. To discuss location opportunities for your business contact the Port at (360) 426-1151. FJORD 36

portofshelton.com

Cleaning Shrimp Shrimp are very fragile and die quickly once they’re out of the water. To keep this shellfish fresh for eating, shrimpers often clean their catch immediately after hauling it in: • • • • •

Cut off the head of the shrimp Pull off the feet. Peel the hard shell away from the body, leaving the tail Remove the vein (thin, black string that runs the length of the shrimp) with the paring knife. Put the shrimp in a container or plastic bag and place in the cooler on ice until you get home.

The Shellfish Trail

Like shellfish? Then the Washington Shellfish Trail is where to start your next journey. Volunteers are working with folks that grow, cook, and display shellfish to create a trail that you can follow to explore shellfish. Similar to the wine trails of Eastern Washington, the trail will bring you from the Columbia River north to the Canadian border and explore not only Washington’s famous oysters, but also clams, geoducks, and mussels. Visit farms, gather your own shellfish off public beaches and attend events that embrace this resource, like Hama Hama’s Oyter Rama or the State Park’s Shellfest. The Washington Shellfish Trail will guide you on your journey. Understanding the role of shellfish in our communities is essential to the long term health of our shellfish resources. The Trail will emphasize the interconnectedness of aquaculture within our rural communities and the value of shellfish to our well being. The Shellfish Trail was awarded funding from the National Sea Grant Program and is being developed by the partnership of Image In Action Design and Washington Sea Grant.

The options are endless and build upon the other Washington trail systems such as the Strait of Juan de Fuca Scenic Byway. All of the stops will have specific points of interest and learning opportunities that will enhance your adventure. Did you know that the North Bay WDFW property boasts the largest population of Olympia oysters in Puget Sound? This and more will be highlighted features on the Trail. An oversized picture frame will be available for you to take commemorative photos of your adventure at key stops. Stop by the WA Sea Grant booth at area events to catch your family shot in this giant frame and tag tour visit on facebook #shellfishtrail. If you are interested in your company or site becoming part of the trail visit shellfishtrail.org for details.

Events such as Hama Hama’s Oyster Rama will be featured on the Shellfish Trail and will host the mobile shellfish picture frame.

www.shellfishtrail.org

WHERE:

Get in the picturel at these locations: April 20 – Union City Market, Union WA April 29 - Oyster Rama, Lilliwaup WA April 30 - Shellfest, Lakebay, WA

Washington

Shellﬁsh

.ORG FJORD

You will

our oysters.

the Marine Education Science Society (MESS) members now providing the touch tanks and some of the lessons. The Washington State Department of Health staff created Oscar the oyster especially for Kids’ Day at OysterFest in the mid 90’s to demonstrate to students how shellfish concentrate phytoplankton and pollution in their bodies. Both Oscar and the touch tanks are also on display forowned OysterFest. Family & operated South Sound Mariculture prides itself on producing premier

We sure do.

Northwest oysters & clams. Riding the currents of Hammersley Inlet, our tumble bags roll with

AM M

ERS LY

INLET

T H SO

Organizations that haveperfect been particithe tides, creating oysters that are firm & full-flavored. pating since 1993 include: Washington State Department of Health, WashThrough a unique partnership, our shellfish are available exclusively ington State Department of Ecology, through Hama Hama Oyster Co. and are featured in restaurants Y Mason Conservation District, WashD O ST E all over the world. N R ington State University, Mason County Medic One, Mason County Public We are pleased to Washington support the Utility District #3 and SeaMarine Education Science Society touch tanks at them the 2017 Hama Hama Oyster Rama. Grant. Organizations joining in Join us in sponsoring marine education at events and in our 2016 include the North Mason Kiwanis,classrooms. Marine Education Science Society, and the Skokomish Tribe. We’re proud to beDay a small farm Teachers utilize Kids’ to jump start in South Puget Sound. environmental lessons for their students You know the event is a big success H when you see students thriving, teachand expand upon them in their classSO E• UTH R U T SOUND MARICUL ers engaged and the original GOO room with the aid of the lesson plans and Kids’ Day volunteer, Dick Oltman provided. Kids’ Day offers sessions on exclaim that “Kids’ Day is one of the water quality, pollution prevention, best things we ever added to Oystermarine animals, ecosystems, electrical Fest. Now some 23 years and 12,000 safety, conservation of natural resourcstudents later the event is still going es, boating safety and more—teaching children important lessons and provid- strong, funded completely by the PO BOX 622, SHELTON WA 98584 Skookum Rotary Club Foundation and ing useful tools for the future. southsoundoysters.com Washington Sea Grant with incredible

866-922-7469

FJORD 38

SAVE THE DATE for Hood Canal’s

FjordinCrossin Five years ago Chuck and Jan Morris cashed in their retirement funds; mortgaged their home in Seattle; and headed to Hoodsport, where the water is uncommonly good. They purchased the old hardware store in the center of Hoodsport and started a distillery – The Hardware Distillery Co. Located in Hoodsport, the Distillery is just steps from the shores of Hood Canal. The basement, where they age their whiskey, opens up on to the Canal, so that the barrels can breathe the fresh salt air. Opening the door to the Distillery your senses are greeted with a wave of sensations. The rich fermenting aroma is second only to the thoughtful artwork that adorns the space. All of which are overshadowed by the warm welcome of owners, Jan and Chuck. Chuck, also chief distiller, is happy to offer an impromptu tour. Jan is quick to answer questions and provide samples of their award wining blends. The Distillery recently won two silver medals at the 2016 International Wine and Spirit Competition in London. One silver medal for R Gin and one for Bee’s Knees Raspberry. However, their repertoire includes a lot more than whiskey and gin. One of the distillery’s recent specialties is aquavit. “Many customers, who are new to the distillery in Hoodsport, have not heard of aquavit,” remarked Jan, “for many aquavit is confused with tequila.” With their Scandinavian roots, Jan and Chuck are determined to make an aquavit that can introduce this tradition to the Northwest.

June 24 Hoodsport, WA Traditionally it is made from grain or potatoes, but it can also be made from fruit. No matter the base, certain spices and herbs are added to make it aquavit. “There are many traditions, songs, dances and games around aquavit.” adds Jan, “It is a very fun spirit.” A traditional Norwegian aquavit is the Linje aquavit. Legend contends that many years ago a ship with aquavit barrels was sent to Australia but the barrels were denied and returned to Norway. In the journey the equator (“linje”) was crossed twice before bottling the spirit and it was firmly believed that the rocking motion of the ship made the aquavit taste better. To this day, barrels of linje aquavit journey to Australia from Norway. The Hardware Distillery is planning a new tradition on Hood Canal to create their own local version of this journey. On June 24, shortly after the longest day of the year, the Distillery will celebrate FjordinCrossin. “We will launch Chuck,” plans Jan Morris, “on a boat with a barrel of our aquavit, he will travel from Hoodsport across the fjord to Tahuya – we hope that his return will be the same day.” Chuck will depart the Hoodsport dock around 11:00 AM on June 24. The public are welcome to join in the send-off and spend the day in celebration. There will be music, activities for the whole family as well as food from local vendors.

The emphasis will be to celebrate Nordic festivities surrounding the Midsummer season as well as the fjord. Samples of aquavit and aquavit cocktails will be available at the distillery. As part of FjordinCrossin, Hood Canal Events (Union) will sponsor “Paddle the Canal,” a family event for those who wish to join the “Crossin” in a non-motorized boat, kayak, canoe, or paddle board. There will be a challenge and fun prizes. Visit thehardwaredistillery.com for details and updates on FjordinCrossin. Vendors are invited to contact (206) 300-0877 for information on participating.

Aquavit is an important part of Scandinavian culture, and is often a staple during festivals and holidays. 39

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ODSPORT, WA

The Hardware Distillery makes the best spirits. Great spirits start with great water â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and we use the best, flowing from the snow pack on the glacial Olympic Mountain Range. The Hardware Distillery uses grains that are grown in Washington state fields, fruit grown in Washington orchards, and honey from Washington beehives and fermented and distilled on the banks of Hood Canal.

Photo: Klaassimages.com

We suggest R GIN, a distilled, smokey dry gin, best enjoyed with oysters. The barley is cold-smoked at Hama Hama Oyster Co. in Lilliwaup. Call for information & tasting appointments:

206-300-0877 Tasting Room Summer Hours: 10-6 Every Day Winter Hours: 12 - 5 Thurs, Fri & Sun | 10-6 Sat

The Hardware Distillery Co. 24210 North Highway 101, Hoodsport, WA FJORD 40 thehardwaredistillery.com

Tracing the Fjord | Spring 2017

Articles inside

The turquoise Cocco Bloom

Take a walk on the Shellfish trail

Head to the Shores of Hood Canal

Oyster species and what makes them so different