Tag: Mason County

  • PUD 3 Fiber Signup Guide & Shelton Road Project Updates

    PUD 3 Fiber Signup Guide & Shelton Road Project Updates

    If you live in the Three Fingers area of Mason County and have been waiting for fiber internet, the wait is officially over. Mason County Public Utility District No. 3 completed its Three Fingers Fiber Project in April 2026, meeting its federal deadline and connecting more than 250 homes and businesses in the Grapeview community to symmetrical gigabit fiber. And if you’re a Shelton resident who drives Olympic Highway North, you should know the city is moving forward — slowly but seriously — on a $6 million reconstruction of the corridor that hasn’t been resurfaced since 1989.

    How to Get Fiber Connected to Your Home in Three Fingers

    If you live in the Three Fingers area and haven’t yet applied for PUD 3 fiber service, the process is straightforward. Contact PUD 3’s Telecom Team at pud3.org and an Engineering Designer will review what construction is needed to reach your specific property and walk you through the next steps.

    Once connected, you choose your own internet service provider — that’s what makes PUD 3’s open-access network different from a traditional cable or DSL provider. PUD 3 owns the fiber cable running to your home, but multiple retail ISPs compete to deliver service over it. You can switch providers without any new wiring being installed. Most customers pay approximately $85 per month for unlimited, symmetrical 1,000/1,000 Mbps (gigabit) internet — speeds that match what urban customers in Seattle or Tacoma pay significantly more for.

    What does gigabit fiber mean day-to-day? Streaming video on multiple devices simultaneously with no buffering. Video calls without freezing or dropped connections. Large file uploads that used to take hours finishing in minutes. For households with remote workers, students doing homework, or anyone who has been frustrated by slow rural internet, the practical difference is significant.

    What About Cloquallum? You Still Have Time

    If you’re in the neighboring Cloquallum Communities area rather than Three Fingers, PUD 3’s next fiberhood is underway. An application fee waiver was extended through May 31, 2026 — but that deadline is close. Residents in Cloquallum should visit pud3.org now to check the current status and apply before the waiver expires.

    What the Olympic Highway North Project Means for Your Commute

    For Shelton residents who use Olympic Highway North to get around — the stretch from C Street to Wallace Kneeland Boulevard — the road project is still years away from breaking ground. Design won’t be finalized until winter 2026, bids won’t go out until spring 2027, and construction is targeted for summer 2027. So the cracked pavement you’re driving on now will be there a while longer.

    What’s being decided right now is what the rebuilt road will look like. The city has four design options on the table from consultant Transpo Group. A $3.7 million grant from the Washington State Transportation Improvement Board requires that dedicated bike lanes be included — that’s not optional. The debate is about how to configure the bike lanes: buffered, traditional, one-sided or two-sided, and how much on-street parking survives in each option.

    City staff are recommending Option 2, which keeps parking on one side of the road and uses buffered (not just painted) bike lanes. If you have an opinion on the design, now is the time to voice it. Visit sheltonwa.gov for the project page and public comment opportunities.

    For more on the broader fiber buildout across Mason County, see When Is Fiber Internet Coming to My Mason County Neighborhood? and the full infrastructure update at Mason County Infrastructure Update — May 2026.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    I live in Three Fingers — how do I sign up for PUD 3 fiber?

    Go to pud3.org and contact PUD 3’s Telecom Team. An Engineering Designer will assess what construction is needed to connect your specific property and walk you through the sign-up process. The Three Fingers project is complete, but individual home connections may still be pending if you haven’t applied yet.

    Can I choose my own internet provider with PUD 3 fiber?

    Yes. PUD 3 operates an open-access fiber network, meaning multiple retail internet service providers compete to deliver service over the same physical fiber cable that PUD 3 owns. You select the ISP you prefer and can switch without any new infrastructure installation. Gigabit service runs approximately $85/month.

    Will Olympic Highway North be closed during construction?

    Construction isn’t expected to begin until summer 2027, so no closures are imminent. When construction does begin, specific lane closure and traffic management plans will be determined by the contractor selected during the spring 2027 bidding process. The City of Shelton will publish project updates at sheltonwa.gov.

    What is the Cloquallum Communities Fiberhood fee waiver?

    PUD 3 extended an application fee waiver through May 31, 2026, for residents in the Cloquallum Communities area — the next fiberhood after Three Fingers. If you live in Cloquallum and want to apply for fiber service with the fee waived, visit pud3.org before May 31.

  • Mason County Infrastructure: Fiber & Highway Updates

    Mason County Infrastructure: Fiber & Highway Updates

    After five years of engineering, federal permitting, and neighborhood-by-neighborhood construction, Mason County Public Utility District No. 3 has crossed its finish line. The Three Fingers Fiber Project — funded in part by a $2.4 million USDA ReConnect Pilot Program grant — reached its April 2026 federal completion deadline with more than 250 homes and businesses in the Three Fingers area of Grapeview now connected to symmetrical gigabit fiber internet. At the same time, Shelton is taking its first deliberate steps toward the most significant road reconstruction the city has seen in nearly four decades, with a $6 million overhaul of Olympic Highway North moving into the design phase. Both projects represent infrastructure investments that will shape how Mason County residents live, work, and move for a generation.

    Three Fingers Fiber: What the Completion Milestone Means

    The Three Fingers area sits in one of the harder-to-reach pockets of Mason County’s broadband map — a community that until recently had to make do with slow or unreliable connections while the rest of the county moved toward fiber. That changes now.

    PUD 3 was the first utility in Washington state to be awarded a USDA ReConnect Pilot Program grant when it received the $2.4 million award in 2020 to extend high-speed wholesale broadband to the Three Fingers area of Grapeview. Construction of the mainline distribution network was completed ahead of schedule despite early COVID-related delays. Over the final months, PUD 3 crews worked block by block through what the district calls its “Fiberhood” model — connecting individual homes and businesses that had applied for service — to hit the April 2026 federal deadline.

    The completion brings PUD 3’s countywide fiber network to more than 3,000 connected premises across Mason County. The open-access design means residents aren’t locked into a single provider: PUD 3 owns the physical fiber infrastructure while multiple local internet retailers compete to deliver service over it. Customers can choose from providers offering unlimited, symmetrical 1,000/1,000 Mbps gigabit internet, HDTV, and phone service — and switch between them without any new wiring — for approximately $85 per month.

    Residents in Three Fingers who have not yet applied for a connection can contact PUD 3’s Telecom Team at pud3.org. An Engineering Designer will review what construction is needed to reach the home and walk through next steps.

    Cloquallum Communities: The Next Fiberhood

    For residents in the neighboring Cloquallum Communities area, PUD 3’s expansion isn’t finished yet. The Cloquallum Communities Fiberhood is the district’s next active buildout, and an application fee waiver was extended through May 31, 2026, for residents in that service area. Anyone in Cloquallum who has not yet applied should check pud3.org for current terms and timelines before the waiver expires.

    Shelton Eyes $6 Million Overhaul of Olympic Highway North

    On the other end of the county, Shelton is beginning a methodical planning process for the most consequential road project the city has taken on in decades. Olympic Highway North — the stretch running from C Street to Wallace Kneeland Boulevard — was last paved in 1989. After 37 years, the pavement is fractured and deteriorating, and the City of Shelton has secured funding to rebuild it from the ground up.

    The total project cost is estimated at up to $6 million. The largest share of that comes from a $3.7 million grant from the Washington State Transportation Improvement Board — funding that comes with a firm requirement: the final design must include dedicated bicycle lanes. That condition is shaping the conversation among residents and decision-makers about how to balance competing uses on the corridor.

    About 50 residents attended a community meeting at the Shelton Civic Center on March 10 to hear consultant Transpo Group present four design options. Each option addresses the road differently, with varying configurations for travel lanes, on-street parking, and bike lanes.

    City staff have recommended Option 2, which features buffered bike lanes that physically separate cyclists from vehicle traffic, parking retained on one side of the road, and a configuration that meets the TIB grant requirements. The staff recommendation notes that Option 2 “offers the greatest balance of modes within the right of way compared to other options” and that the buffered lanes provide improved safety and comfort for cyclists relative to traditional painted bike lanes.

    Transpo Group is expected to finalize the design this coming winter. The project would then go out for bid in spring 2027, with construction potentially beginning in summer 2027. Residents who want to provide input on the design options can visit sheltonwa.gov for project information and public comment opportunities.

    Two Projects, One Theme

    Taken together, the Three Fingers fiber completion and the Olympic Highway North planning process reflect a county working through the accumulated infrastructure debt of rural communities that grew before modern utility and transportation standards caught up. Fiber internet for Three Fingers closes a connectivity gap that left residents effectively offline in a digital economy. The Olympic Highway reconstruction addresses a road that has outlasted multiple generations of patch repairs. Neither project is flashy. Both are exactly what long-term residents and newcomers alike need from their county and city governments.

    For residents with questions about either project, the contact points are clear: pud3.org for fiber service inquiries, and sheltonwa.gov for Olympic Highway North project updates and public input.

    Related Coverage

    For more context on PUD 3’s broader fiber expansion across Mason County, see Mason County PUD 3 Fiber Internet Is Reaching More Homes in 2026 and When Is Fiber Internet Coming to My Mason County Neighborhood?

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Has the Three Fingers Fiber Project been completed?

    Yes. Mason County PUD 3’s Three Fingers Fiber Project reached its federal April 2026 completion deadline. More than 250 homes and businesses in the Three Fingers area of Grapeview are now connected to PUD 3’s open-access gigabit fiber network. Residents who applied for service and have not yet been connected should contact PUD 3’s Telecom Team at pud3.org.

    What is the USDA ReConnect grant that funded Three Fingers fiber?

    The USDA ReConnect Pilot Program provides federal grants to extend broadband to unserved rural areas. Mason County PUD 3 received a $2.4 million ReConnect grant in 2020 — the first such award to a Washington state utility — specifically to fund the Three Fingers buildout. The grant required the project to be completed by April 2026, a deadline PUD 3 met.

    How much does PUD 3 fiber internet cost in Mason County?

    PUD 3 fiber customers pay approximately $85 per month for unlimited, symmetrical 1,000/1,000 Mbps (gigabit) internet through a retail provider of their choice. Because PUD 3 operates an open-access network — owning the fiber infrastructure while multiple ISPs compete to deliver service over it — customers have a choice of providers and can switch without any new wiring.

    What is the Cloquallum Communities Fiberhood, and can I still apply?

    The Cloquallum Communities Fiberhood is PUD 3’s next active fiber buildout, adjacent to the Three Fingers area. An application fee waiver was extended through May 31, 2026. Residents in the Cloquallum area should visit pud3.org to check current terms and apply before the waiver expires.

    Why does Shelton’s Olympic Highway North project require bike lanes?

    The City of Shelton received a $3.7 million grant from the Washington State Transportation Improvement Board to help fund the Olympic Highway North reconstruction. A condition of that grant is that the final design must include dedicated bicycle lanes. The city is currently evaluating four design options from consultant Transpo Group, all of which incorporate bike lanes in different configurations.

    When will Olympic Highway North construction begin?

    The current project timeline calls for Transpo Group to finalize the design in winter 2026, followed by a bid process in spring 2027 and construction beginning in summer 2027. The road runs from C Street to Wallace Kneeland Boulevard in Shelton and has not been paved since 1989.

    How can I give input on the Olympic Highway North project?

    The City of Shelton is continuing to gather public feedback on the four design options presented by Transpo Group at the March 10 community meeting at Shelton Civic Center. Residents can visit sheltonwa.gov for project information and public comment opportunities as the design process continues through 2026.

  • Mason County Infrastructure: PUD 3 Fiber & Shelton Highway

    Mason County Infrastructure: PUD 3 Fiber & Shelton Highway

    For residents tucked into the Three Fingers area of Mason County — one of the harder-to-reach corners of the county’s broadband map — the wait is over. Mason County Public Utility District No. 3 has reached the April 2026 completion deadline for its Three Fingers Fiber Project, a five-year effort funded in part by a federal USDA ReConnect grant that has connected more than 250 homes and businesses to symmetrical gigabit fiber internet.

    The milestone caps a project that began in early 2020 when PUD 3 was awarded the ReConnect grant. Construction faced early delays tied to COVID-19 and federal procurement processes, but the mainline distribution network was completed well ahead of the April 2026 federal deadline. Over the final months, crews worked neighborhood by neighborhood connecting individual homes and businesses that had applied for service — a process PUD 3 calls its “Fiberhood” model.

    What the Connection Means for Residents

    The Three Fingers buildout brings the total number of homes and businesses connected to PUD 3’s open-access fiber network to more than 3,000 across Mason County, including areas that previously had no broadband options whatsoever. The open-access design is key: rather than locking customers into one provider, PUD 3 owns the physical fiber infrastructure while a roster of local internet retailers competes to deliver service over it. Customers can choose from multiple providers offering unlimited, symmetrical 1,000/1,000 Mbps gigabit internet, HDTV, and phone service — and switch between them without any new wiring.

    For families in the Three Fingers community, that means the same fiber speeds available in urban centers, delivered to homes that until recently had to make do with slow or unreliable connections. Remote workers, students doing homework, and small home-based businesses all stand to benefit directly.

    Residents who have not yet applied for a connection are encouraged to contact PUD 3’s Telecom Team. An Engineering Designer will review the construction needed to reach the home and walk through next steps. The application fee waiver extended through May 31, 2026, for the neighboring Cloquallum Communities Fiberhood may also still be in effect — residents in that area should check pud3.org for current terms.

    Shelton Eyes $6 Million Overhaul of Olympic Highway North — But Bikes Come First

    On the southern end of the county, Shelton is moving — slowly but deliberately — toward the most significant road reconstruction project in nearly four decades. Olympic Highway North, which runs from C Street to Wallace Kneeland Boulevard, has not been paved in 37 years. The pavement is fractured and cracked, and the City of Shelton is now asking the public to weigh in on what the rebuilt road should look like.

    About 50 residents turned out to a community meeting at the Shelton Civic Center on March 10 to hear consultant Transpo Group present four design options. Each option addresses the deteriorating roadway differently, with varying configurations for travel lanes, parking, and — notably — bike lanes. A $3.7 million grant from the Washington State Transportation Improvement Board comes with a condition: the final design must include dedicated bicycle lanes. That requirement is shaping the conversation and has generated discussion among residents about how best to balance competing uses on the corridor.

    The total project cost is estimated at up to $6 million, with the Transportation Improvement Board grant covering the majority of that figure alongside additional city and grant funding. Transpo Group is expected to finalize the design this coming winter, with the project going out for bid in spring 2027 and construction potentially beginning in summer 2027.

    For now, the city is continuing to gather public feedback on the four design options. Residents who want to weigh in can visit sheltonwa.gov for more information on the Olympic Highway North project. The road serves as a key corridor for residents commuting between the northern neighborhoods of Shelton and downtown, and the reconstruction is expected to improve safety, drainage, and accessibility when it eventually gets underway.

    What to Watch

    On the broadband front, PUD 3’s Cloquallum Communities Fiberhood — Phase 2 of which launched in February 2026 covering the Wivell Road, Loertscher Road, and Cloquallum neighborhoods — has a project completion deadline of October 2026. Residents in those areas who have not yet applied should do so before application windows close.

    For Olympic Highway North, the next public milestone will be the release of the final design, expected winter 2026–2027. Shelton residents with strong feelings about bike lanes, parking, or lane configuration should engage with the city now, while options are still on the table.

    Related Coverage

    In-depth reporting on these stories:

    Related Coverage

    In-depth reporting on these stories:

  • Hood Canal Tidelands: Property Owner Shellfish Guide

    Hood Canal Tidelands: Property Owner Shellfish Guide

    If you own property along Hood Canal in Mason County — whether a primary residence, a vacation cabin, or a waterfront lot — shellfish access is one of the practical realities of waterfront ownership in this corridor. The 2026 season brings two regulation changes, and the Skokomish Tribal Nation’s treaty tidelands add a layer of complexity that waterfront owners need to understand correctly.

    Who Owns the Tidelands in Front of Your Property?

    In Washington State, waterfront property ownership typically extends to the ordinary high-water mark (OHWM), not to the water itself. Tidelands — the area between the high-water mark and the low-water mark — may be owned by the state, by the Department of Natural Resources, by a private party, or by tribal nations. The ownership of the tidelands in front of your property determines whether you have legal access to harvest shellfish there.

    On Hood Canal south of the Skokomish River delta, a significant portion of tidelands is subject to Skokomish Tribal Nation treaty rights. These rights are distinct from land ownership — they are federally recognized harvesting rights that predate state jurisdiction. State-licensed recreational harvesters do not have authority to harvest on tribally-held tidelands regardless of their proximity to private waterfront property. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife’s shellfish beach locator (wdfw.wa.gov/places-to-go/shellfish-beaches) maps which beaches are open to recreational harvest and which are not.

    If you are uncertain about the tideland status of your Hood Canal property, the Mason County Assessor’s office and the Washington DNR’s parcel viewer (dnr.wa.gov) both provide tools to research ownership. This matters if you plan to harvest at your waterfront or if you invite guests who assume that access comes with the property.

    Potlatch State Park: The Public Beach in Your Neighborhood

    Potlatch State Park, approximately 12 miles north of Shelton on Highway 101, is the primary public recreational shellfish beach serving the southern Hood Canal corridor. The state park and adjacent Potlatch DNR tidelands are managed specifically for public recreational access, which is why they attract harvesting pressure that private tidelands do not.

    The 2026 spring season at Potlatch runs April 1 through May 31. For Hood Canal property owners who want to harvest recreationally but lack tidelands rights at their own property, Potlatch is the nearest well-managed public option. Highway 101 shoulder parking from mileposts 335.07 to 335.72 is actively enforced — use the state park and DNR beach designated parking rather than the shoulder.

    The 2026 Regulation Changes That Affect Hood Canal Harvesting

    Two Hood Canal-specific regulations changed in 2026 under Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife rulemaking:

    Cockle minimum size increased to 2.5 inches. The minimum legal harvest size for cockles taken from Hood Canal beaches — including Potlatch and any private tidelands open to recreational harvest — increased from the prior standard to 2.5 inches shell diameter. The change aligns cockle regulations with the species’ biology, allowing more individuals to reach reproductive age before harvest. Harvesters should carry a measuring gauge; the infraction for undersized shellfish is substantial.

    Geoduck daily limit reduced to 1 per person per day. The geoduck limit on Hood Canal dropped to 1 geoduck per person per day, down from 3. Geoduck require a separate license from standard shellfish-seaweed licenses and are subject to area-specific regulations that WDFW updates annually. Property owners with geoduck populations on their tidelands should note this limit applies to recreational harvest across Hood Canal, not just public beaches.

    Biotoxin Closures and Waterfront Property

    Hood Canal’s enclosed geography and warm summer water temperatures make it one of the more biotoxin-prone shellfish areas in Washington State. Closures for paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP), domoic acid, and other biotoxins can be issued at any time by the Washington State Department of Health and apply to all recreational harvest on affected beaches — state, DNR, and private tidelands alike.

    For Hood Canal property owners who harvest from their own tidelands or host guests who do: biotoxin closures are binding regardless of private ownership. The Washington State Department of Health’s Shellfish Safety Map (doh.wa.gov) is the authoritative source. WDFW also maintains a shellfish safety hotline. Check before every harvest outing — the shellfish appear and smell normal during biotoxin events and cannot be detected without laboratory testing.

    Alternate Beaches When Season Varies

    Hood Canal property owners who want year-round or extended shellfish access beyond Potlatch’s May 31 season have two nearby public options worth knowing:

    • WDFW Hoodsport Hatchery beach is open for shellfish harvest through July 31, 2026 — two months past Potlatch’s close. Located in Hoodsport on Highway 101, it offers continuity for harvesters who want to stay in the Hood Canal corridor into summer.
    • Eagle Creek shellfish area is open for oyster harvest year-round, offering access outside seasonal closures. It is smaller and lower-traffic than Potlatch.

    Frequently Asked Questions — Hood Canal Tidelands for Property Owners

    Do Hood Canal waterfront property owners automatically have shellfish harvesting rights?

    Not necessarily. Washington waterfront ownership typically extends only to the ordinary high-water mark. Tidelands may be privately owned, state-owned, DNR-managed, or subject to tribal treaty rights. You need to research the specific tideland ownership for your parcel through the Mason County Assessor’s office or the Washington DNR’s parcel viewer (dnr.wa.gov) before assuming harvesting rights.

    What are the Skokomish tribal tidelands on Hood Canal?

    The Skokomish Tribal Nation holds federally recognized treaty rights over tidelands in portions of Hood Canal, particularly in the southern section near the Skokomish River delta. These rights predate Washington State jurisdiction. State-licensed recreational harvesters cannot harvest on tribally-held tidelands. The WDFW shellfish beach locator (wdfw.wa.gov/places-to-go/shellfish-beaches) shows which beaches are open to public recreational harvest.

    What is the 2026 cockle minimum size on Hood Canal?

    2.5 inches shell diameter, increased from the prior standard. This applies to all Hood Canal beaches including Potlatch State Park and any private tidelands open to recreational harvest. Carry a gauge — undersized shellfish violations carry significant fines.

    Can biotoxin closures apply to my private tidelands?

    Yes. Washington State Department of Health biotoxin closures apply to all recreational shellfish harvest in the affected area, regardless of whether the tidelands are privately or publicly owned. There is no private tideland exemption from biotoxin closures. Check doh.wa.gov before every harvest outing.

    When does the Potlatch shellfish season end in 2026?

    May 31, 2026. After that date, the WDFW Hoodsport Hatchery beach remains open through July 31, and Eagle Creek is open year-round for oysters. Always verify current status at WDFW (wdfw.wa.gov) before any harvest outing, as emergency closures can alter seasons without advance notice.

    For the full 2026 Potlatch season guide with alternate beaches, parking rules, and complete regulation updates, see Hood Canal Shellfish Season Open Through May 31: Potlatch Beach Guide for Mason County Harvesters. For Mason County real estate and waterfront property context, see Mason County Real Estate: Prices, Trends and Neighborhoods.

  • Potlatch Shellfish Harvesting: 2026 Beginner Guide

    Potlatch Shellfish Harvesting: 2026 Beginner Guide

    Potlatch State Park on Hood Canal is one of the most accessible places in Mason County to harvest shellfish — no boat required, easy parking, and a beach that produces oysters, Manila clams, mussels, cockles, and (with a separate license) geoduck. The spring season runs through May 31, 2026. If you’ve been meaning to try it, you have roughly five weeks left — and this is what you need to know before you go.

    Where Is Potlatch and How Do You Get There?

    Potlatch State Park is on U.S. Highway 101 approximately 12 miles north of Shelton, just past Hoodsport on the western shore of Hood Canal. From Shelton, take Highway 101 north through Hoodsport — the park entrance appears on the left (water side) after you pass through town. From Belfair or Allyn, take Highway 3 to 101 and head south toward Hoodsport.

    Important parking note: shoulder parking along Highway 101 mileposts 335.07 to 335.72 is actively enforced. Use the designated parking areas at the state park and the adjacent Potlatch DNR beach access, not the highway shoulder. Rangers do ticket here, especially on weekend mornings during harvest season.

    What License Do You Need?

    For clams, oysters, mussels, and cockles: you need a standard Washington fishing license with a shellfish-seaweed catch record. These are available from WDFW’s licensing website, from license dealers (sporting goods stores, some grocery stores), or via the WDFW mobile app. Licenses are valid for the calendar year.

    For geoduck specifically: geoduck require a separate license in addition to the standard shellfish license. Geoduck limits and regulations can also change by area year to year — in 2026, the Hood Canal daily geoduck limit dropped to 1 per person per day (down from 3). If geoduck isn’t your primary goal on a first trip, skip the separate license for now and focus on clams and oysters.

    What You’ll Find on the Beach

    Potlatch has over a mile of tidelands. The stretch closest to the highway is regularly harvested and is where you’ll find the highest concentrations of Manila clams in the middle and upper intertidal zones, with the greatest abundance on the large tide flat at the southern end. Oysters tend to cluster in the lower intertidal area — closer to the water line and accessible mainly on big minus tides.

    For a first trip with family, Manila clams are the most beginner-friendly target. They’re small (1–2 inches), buried just 2–4 inches in the sand and gravel, and found in densities that make digging feel productive quickly. A small garden trowel or clam gun works well. Check current limits before you go — WDFW updates them, and Hood Canal limits can differ from Puget Sound limits even for the same species.

    The 2026 Rule Changes You Must Know

    Two Hood Canal-specific regulations changed for 2026 and apply at Potlatch:

    • Cockle minimum size: 2.5 inches. The minimum legal harvest size for cockles increased from the prior standard to 2.5 inches shell diameter. If you’re not sure what a cockle looks like, they are round, ribbed clams — rounder and more dome-shaped than a Manila or littleneck. Bring a small ruler or measuring gauge.
    • Geoduck daily limit: 1 per person per day. The geoduck limit on Hood Canal dropped to 1 per day (formerly 3). Geoduck are the giant clams — their siphons protrude from the sand and they require real digging. A first-timer is unlikely to encounter geoduck casually, but if you spot one, know the new limit.

    Tribal Boundaries and What They Mean for Harvesters

    The Skokomish Tribal Nation holds treaty rights over tidelands in parts of Hood Canal, including areas adjacent to Potlatch State Park. State-licensed recreational harvesters must remain on state or DNR-managed tidelands — not tribally-held tidelands. At Potlatch, the state park and adjacent DNR beach are the appropriate harvest areas. If you are uncertain about boundaries, harvest near the clearly marked state park beach rather than wandering south toward the tribal boundary areas.

    Always Check for Biotoxin Closures Before You Go

    This is non-negotiable: before any shellfish outing, check the Washington State Department of Health’s Shellfish Safety Map at doh.wa.gov or call WDFW’s shellfish safety hotline. Biotoxin (paralytic shellfish poisoning) closures happen without warning on Hood Canal beaches, including Potlatch. Biotoxins are odorless and tasteless — you cannot detect them in the shellfish. A closure means the shellfish are not safe to eat, period. No exceptions. Check before every trip, even if you were there last weekend.

    If Potlatch Is Crowded — Two Nearby Alternatives

    Weekend afternoons in May can get busy at Potlatch. Two nearby alternatives on the same highway corridor:

    • WDFW Hoodsport Hatchery beach is open for shellfish harvest through July 31, 2026. It’s in Hoodsport on Highway 101 — shorter drive from Shelton, slightly less well-known, and open a full month past Potlatch’s May 31 close.
    • Eagle Creek shellfish area is open for oyster harvest year-round. Smaller and quieter than Potlatch. Good if you want oysters specifically and don’t need to stay in the May-season window.

    Frequently Asked Questions — Potlatch Shellfish for First-Timers

    Do I need a license to harvest shellfish at Potlatch State Park?

    Yes. You need a Washington fishing license with a shellfish-seaweed catch record. Available from WDFW’s website, the WDFW mobile app, or licensed dealers. Geoduck require an additional separate license. Children under 15 are typically exempt from licensing requirements — check WDFW’s current exemption rules for your child’s age.

    When is the Potlatch shellfish season in 2026?

    The clam, mussel, and oyster season at Potlatch State Park runs April 1 through May 31, 2026. After May 31, Potlatch closes for the summer. The WDFW Hoodsport Hatchery beach (also on Hood Canal near Highway 101) remains open through July 31, 2026.

    What is the cockle minimum size at Potlatch in 2026?

    The minimum legal harvest size for cockles on Hood Canal, including Potlatch, is 2.5 inches shell diameter in 2026. This increased from the prior standard. Bring a measuring gauge — it’s a $125+ infraction to keep undersized shellfish.

    Can I park on the highway shoulder at Potlatch?

    No. Highway 101 shoulder parking from mileposts 335.07 to 335.72 is actively enforced at Potlatch. Use designated parking at the state park or DNR beach access. Violations are ticketed, especially on weekend mornings during peak season.

    How do I know if Potlatch is closed for biotoxins?

    Check the Washington State Department of Health’s Shellfish Safety Map at doh.wa.gov or call WDFW’s shellfish safety hotline before every trip. Biotoxin closures can be issued at any time and are not predictable — the shellfish look and smell normal during a closure. Never harvest without confirming the beach is open.

    For the full 2026 Potlatch season guide including alternate beaches and detailed regulation updates, see Hood Canal Shellfish Season Open Through May 31: Potlatch Beach Guide for Mason County Harvesters. For more things to do in Mason County, see Things to Do in Mason County: The Definitive Guide.

  • Mason County Business Expansion: Port of Shelton & CERB

    Mason County Business Expansion: Port of Shelton & CERB

    When Olympic Mountain Ice Cream outgrew its Skokomish Valley production facility, the company didn’t move out of Mason County. It moved to the Port of Shelton — four times the floor space, a loading dock, reliable power, and a location off Highway 101 that solved the flooding and outage risks that had periodically interrupted production. The move was funded in part by a $1.75 million low-interest loan through the Washington State Community Economic Revitalization Board. That combination — Port infrastructure plus state economic development capital — is available to other Mason County businesses, not just ice cream manufacturers.

    What the Port of Shelton Offers Local Businesses

    The Port of Shelton is a public port authority serving Mason County’s industrial and commercial development needs. Located off U.S. Highway 101 near Shelton’s industrial corridor, the Port owns and manages industrial warehouse space, commercial properties, and development parcels that it makes available for lease or partnership arrangements with businesses looking to expand, relocate, or establish operations in the county.

    Olympic Mountain Ice Cream’s new home is an 11,500-square-foot Port-owned warehouse at 130 W. Corporate Drive, renovated specifically for food production and retail operations under a formal Port Commission resolution approving the CERB partnership. The Port doesn’t simply provide space — it can act as the applicant and co-investor in public funding mechanisms, as it did here by taking on the CERB application on behalf of the ice cream company.

    For Mason County businesses in manufacturing, food production, light industrial, or distribution operations that have outgrown their current space, the Port of Shelton is worth a direct conversation. The Port can be reached through the Port Commission office or through the Shelton-Mason County Chamber of Commerce.

    How the CERB Loan Works

    The Community Economic Revitalization Board (CERB) is a Washington State program administered through the Department of Commerce. It provides low-interest loans and grants to support economic development projects in communities across the state — primarily infrastructure, facility improvements, and expansions that create or retain jobs.

    CERB funding is typically applied for by a public entity (in this case the Port of Shelton) on behalf of or in partnership with a private business. The $1.75 million award for the Olympic Mountain Ice Cream project was approved by the Port Commission by formal resolution, with a private investment commitment of at least $1 million from the company and a projected job creation of 17 permanent positions over five years.

    CERB loans are not grants — they are structured as low-interest loans to the public applicant, which then passes the terms to the private partner. The interest rates and repayment terms are significantly more favorable than conventional commercial financing, particularly for capital-intensive projects like facility construction or major equipment installation.

    For Mason County business owners considering expansion projects in the $500,000–$5 million range, CERB is a mechanism worth understanding. Washington State’s Department of Commerce publishes the application requirements and funding cycles; the Shelton-Mason County Chamber and the Port of Shelton can both provide guidance on whether a given project may qualify.

    The Business Succession Pattern Worth Watching

    The spring 2026 business news also included a smaller but equally instructive story: the sale of T’s Café & Espresso to Shelton City Council member Eric Onisko, who reopened it as Tollie’s Café on April 1 without closing a single day of service, retaining all three employees, and keeping much of the menu intact. The only thing that changed substantially was the name — and the name reached for local history rather than corporate branding.

    For Mason County’s small-business owners thinking about succession or exit, the Tollie’s Café model is useful. The seller (Theresa Landsiedel) ran T’s Café for six years; the buyer invested in community character rather than reinvention; the staff retained continuity and employment. That kind of transfer — a going concern passed intact rather than liquidated — is how small-town business ecosystems stay healthy. It also suggests there is a market in Mason County for well-run small businesses with established customer bases and good locations.

    The Bigger Picture: Mason County’s Business Infrastructure

    Both of this spring’s business stories point to the same underlying condition: Mason County has functional public-private infrastructure for business development that is often underutilized by the businesses it’s designed to serve. The Port of Shelton, CERB, the Chamber of Commerce, and county economic development resources don’t require you to be a large company to access. The Olympic Mountain Ice Cream expansion shows what’s possible when a local producer uses those tools deliberately — and the Tollie’s Café transition shows that smaller-scale successions are happening too.

    The county’s next major business calendar event is the 2026 Expo & Bite of Mason County, scheduled for Friday, July 17 on Railroad Avenue in Shelton — a good venue for connections across the local business community.

    Frequently Asked Questions — Mason County Business Expansion Tools

    What is the CERB program and how does it help Mason County businesses?

    CERB — the Community Economic Revitalization Board — is a Washington State program providing low-interest loans and grants for economic development projects. Mason County businesses typically access CERB through a partnership with a public entity like the Port of Shelton, which acts as the applicant. Olympic Mountain Ice Cream’s $1.75 million CERB loan, approved through the Port, is a recent example.

    What kind of space does the Port of Shelton have available?

    The Port of Shelton manages industrial and commercial properties in Shelton’s industrial corridor off Highway 101. Olympic Mountain Ice Cream’s new facility is an 11,500-square-foot warehouse at 130 W. Corporate Drive. Contact the Port Commission directly or through the Chamber of Commerce for current availability and lease terms.

    How many jobs is Olympic Mountain Ice Cream expected to create?

    The Olympic Mountain Ice Cream expansion at the Port of Shelton is projected to add 17 permanent jobs over five years, based on CERB application projections. Private investment in the project is at least $1 million in addition to the $1.75 million CERB loan.

    Is the Port of Shelton only for manufacturing businesses?

    The Port primarily focuses on industrial, manufacturing, and commercial development — the types of businesses that benefit from loading docks, warehouse space, and Highway 101 access. Retail and service businesses typically operate in downtown Shelton or other commercial corridors rather than the Port’s industrial area, though mixed-use development (like OMIC’s production + retail format) can work at Port-owned sites.

    Where can Mason County small businesses get help with expansion planning?

    The Shelton-Mason County Chamber of Commerce is a good first contact. The Port of Shelton Commission can discuss facility availability. Washington State’s Department of Commerce administers CERB and other economic development programs with published application guidance. The Mason County Economic Development Council also tracks business development resources.

    For the full spring 2026 business story, see New Ownership, New Digs: Mason County Businesses Make Spring Moves. For the earlier deep-dive on the CERB loan, see What Is CERB? How Washington State’s Economic Development Loan Program Helped Bring Olympic Mountain Ice Cream to the Port of Shelton. For the jobs angle, see Mason County Jobs and Employers: Economic Guide.

  • Downtown Shelton Businesses: A Guide for New Residents

    Downtown Shelton Businesses: A Guide for New Residents

    When you first drive through downtown Shelton, it can be easy to underestimate what’s there. But if you slow down and look, the blocks around S. 3rd Street and Railroad Avenue have seen a genuine accumulation of locally owned businesses over the past two years — and spring 2026 added another name to the list worth knowing.

    Tollie’s Café: The New Name at 118 S. 3rd St.

    On April 1, 2026, Tollie’s Café opened at 118 S. 3rd St. in downtown Shelton under new owner Eric Onisko — a Shelton City Council member who purchased the space from Theresa Landsiedel after she ran T’s Café & Espresso there for six years. Onisko kept the same three employees and most of the menu: fresh pastries, handcrafted sandwiches, and Batdorf & Bronson coffee. The new name comes from the historic “Tollie” locomotive — a retired Simpson Logging Company engine parked nearly across the street — which has been one of downtown Shelton’s most photographed objects for decades.

    Hours: Monday–Friday 7 a.m.–3 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.–3 p.m. It’s a natural stop if you’re running errands in downtown Shelton, heading to the courthouse, or passing through on your way out of town.

    What Else Is on That Block

    Tollie’s Café joins a cluster that has been building on the 400 block of West Railroad Avenue and the adjacent streets. Recent additions in the same corridor include Shelton Candy Shoppe, Mestizos Latin Food, and the Wilde Irish Pub — all of which opened within roughly the same stretch of months. That kind of clustering matters in small-town downtowns: businesses reinforce each other and create a reason to make multiple stops in one trip rather than passing through.

    The Shelton-Mason County Chamber of Commerce, located downtown, tracks business openings and member events. If you are new and want to understand the local business landscape, the Chamber is a useful first contact for both residents and anyone considering starting a business in the county.

    The “Tollie” Locomotive — Why It Matters

    For newcomers, the Tollie locomotive is one of the most Shelton-specific things you will encounter. It sits displayed on a street near the café, a retired Simpson Logging Company engine that once worked the timber forests of Mason County. The Simpson Lumber Company — which became Simpson Investment Company — was for much of the 20th century the dominant economic force in Mason County, and the logging industry it represents shaped the town’s layout, employment base, and identity in ways that still echo today.

    Onisko’s decision to name his café after the locomotive is a small but deliberate act of local identity-making. In a town where longtime residents carry generational memory of the timber economy, a new business anchoring itself to that history is reaching for something real — not nostalgia for its own sake, but continuity.

    Olympic Mountain Ice Cream: A Local Brand to Know

    While you’re getting oriented, Olympic Mountain Ice Cream is one of Mason County’s most recognized homegrown products. The company has been producing small-batch artisan ice cream in the Skokomish Valley and is in the process of moving to a new 11,500-square-foot facility at 130 W. Corporate Drive at the Port of Shelton — a move funded in part by a $1.75 million state CERB loan and expected to add 17 permanent jobs. Once the new retail storefront is operational, it will be worth knowing for both locals and visitors. Find their products at grocery stores in Shelton, Belfair, and surrounding communities, or check olympicmountainicecream.com for locations.

    The 2026 Expo & Bite of Mason County

    The county’s biggest business-and-food event of the year is the Expo & Bite of Mason County, scheduled for Friday, July 17 on Railroad Avenue in Shelton. If you’ve just moved to the county, it’s one of the best single events to attend for getting a broad sense of who operates here — vendors, restaurants, services, and organizations all in one place.

    Frequently Asked Questions — Downtown Shelton for New Residents

    Where is Tollie’s Café in downtown Shelton?

    Tollie’s Café is at 118 S. 3rd St., downtown Shelton. It opened April 1, 2026 under new owner Eric Onisko. Hours are Monday–Friday 7 a.m.–3 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m.–3 p.m. It serves Batdorf & Bronson coffee, pastries, and handcrafted sandwiches.

    What is the Tollie locomotive in Shelton?

    The “Tollie” is a retired Simpson Logging Company locomotive displayed in downtown Shelton. It is named for the engine that hauled timber through Mason County’s forests during the company’s peak years. It has become one of downtown Shelton’s most recognized landmarks and a symbol of the town’s timber heritage.

    What restaurants and businesses are in downtown Shelton?

    Recent additions to the downtown Shelton business corridor include Tollie’s Café (118 S. 3rd St.), Mestizos Latin Food, Wilde Irish Pub, and Shelton Candy Shoppe — all on or near the 400 block of West Railroad Avenue. The area also includes the Shelton-Mason County Chamber of Commerce and various service businesses along 4th Street and the surrounding blocks.

    Where can I find Olympic Mountain Ice Cream in Mason County?

    Olympic Mountain Ice Cream is available at grocery stores in Shelton, Belfair, and surrounding communities. The company is moving to a new production and retail facility at 130 W. Corporate Drive at the Port of Shelton in spring 2026. Check olympicmountainicecream.com for current retail locations.

    When is the Expo & Bite of Mason County 2026?

    The 2026 Expo & Bite of Mason County is scheduled for Friday, July 17 on Railroad Avenue in Shelton. It is the largest combined business and restaurant event in Mason County, drawing vendors and food options from across the county and region.

    For the full spring 2026 business story including both Tollie’s Café and the Olympic Mountain Ice Cream expansion, see New Ownership, New Digs: Mason County Businesses Make Spring Moves. For a broader overview of life in Mason County, see Living in Mason County Washington: The Complete Guide. For the county’s jobs and economic landscape, see Mason County Jobs and Employers: Economic Guide.

  • Mason County PUD 1 Electric Bill: 2026 Rates Explained

    Mason County PUD 1 Electric Bill: 2026 Rates Explained

    If you are a Mason County PUD No. 1 customer and your April electric bill looked a little higher than usual, you are not imagining it. New rates took effect April 1, 2026 — and while the increase is real, the district worked to keep it smaller than it was originally authorized to charge.

    What Changed on Your Bill

    The two line items that shifted for residential customers:

    • Basic monthly charge: $45.86 → $47.26 (an increase of $1.40/month)
    • Energy rate: $0.09670 → $0.09960 per kilowatt-hour

    The net effect on a typical residential bill is approximately 3.0%. On a household using 800 kWh per month — a reasonable average for a Mason County home — that works out to about $2.65 more per month, or roughly $32 over a full year. Households that run electric heat, well pumps, or other high-draw equipment will see more, proportionally.

    Why Did Rates Go Up?

    Mason County PUD 1 does not generate its own electricity. Like most public utility districts in Washington State, it purchases wholesale power from the Bonneville Power Administration — the federal agency that markets hydropower from dams on the Columbia River system. In 2026, BPA raised its power rate by 6% and its transmission rate by 11.7%. Those are the costs PUD 1 pays before it can deliver a single kilowatt-hour to your meter.

    Utilities that buy from BPA must pass at least some of those cost increases on to customers. What distinguishes Mason County PUD 1’s response is how it managed the local portion: the district’s board had authorized a larger increase, but staff secured a federal emergency management grant that offset a portion of the cost. The result was a 3.0% customer-facing increase rather than the full authorized amount. The difference doesn’t show up as a line item on your bill, but it’s there in what you’re not paying.

    Is PUD 1 Expensive Compared to Other Options?

    For Mason County residents, PUD 1’s rates remain on the more affordable end of Pacific Northwest electric utilities. Washington State’s mix of hydroelectric power — delivered through BPA — keeps rates across the region lower than the national average, and public utility districts like PUD 1 operate without the shareholder profit requirements of investor-owned utilities. The 3.0% increase reflects external cost pressure from BPA, not district expansion of overhead.

    The Water System Work You May Not Have Noticed

    While rate changes tend to get attention, PUD 1 also wrapped two significant infrastructure projects this spring. The Manzanita Water Storage Project — a $4.6 million construction effort — and the Arcadia Estates water system upgrade both reached completion around the April 14, 2026 board meeting. If you are in one of those rural service areas along the Hood Canal south shore, more reliable water service is the practical result.

    The district also submitted a $5.6 million Congressionally Directed Spending request for the next phase of rural water improvements. If funded, it would extend that infrastructure cycle without requiring a new rate action.

    Questions About Your PUD 1 Bill

    PUD 1 customer service can be reached at (360) 426-8255, or you can visit the district office at 21971 N. Highway 101, Shelton, WA 98584. If your bill looks significantly higher than the 3.0% increase would explain, it’s worth checking whether there has been a usage change at your property — a new appliance, a water heater cycling more in cold weather, or a seasonal shift in how your home is heated.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    When did PUD 1 rates increase in 2026?

    Mason County PUD No. 1 electric rates increased effective April 1, 2026. The basic monthly charge rose from $45.86 to $47.26, and the energy rate increased from $0.09670 to $0.09960 per kWh — an overall 3.0% increase on a typical residential bill.

    Why is the BPA rate increase higher than what I’m seeing on my PUD 1 bill?

    BPA raised its rates 6% (power) and 11.7% (transmission) for 2026, but PUD 1 offset some of the local impact by securing a federal emergency management grant. The result was a 3.0% customer-facing increase rather than the full amount the board had authorized. PUD 1 absorbed the difference through that grant funding.

    How much more will I pay per year?

    At 800 kWh per month, the increase is approximately $2.65/month or about $32/year. Higher-usage households will see more. A home using 1,200 kWh/month would see roughly $4 more per month, or about $48 annually.

    Does the water infrastructure work affect electric rates?

    No — PUD 1’s water system and electric system have separate rate structures. The Manzanita and Arcadia Estates water project completions are funded through water system capital budgets, not electric rates. The April 1 electric rate change is driven entirely by BPA wholesale power cost increases.

    How do I read my PUD 1 bill?

    Your PUD 1 bill shows a fixed basic charge (now $47.26/month) plus a variable energy charge based on kWh used (now $0.09960/kWh). Add the two together plus any applicable taxes or fees to get your total. If you are on a water system, that shows as a separate line. Contact PUD 1 at (360) 426-8255 if you have questions about specific charges.

    For the full story on PUD 1’s infrastructure projects and how the rate was kept below authorized levels, see Mason County PUD 1 Wraps Major Water Projects, New Rates Take Effect April 1. For Mason County property owners with questions about infrastructure and taxes, see Mason County Property Tax Deadline April 30, 2026: Payment Options and What Happens If You’re Late.

  • Mason County PUD 1 Rates & Water System Upgrades in 2026

    Mason County PUD 1 Rates & Water System Upgrades in 2026

    If you own property in Mason County that draws water or electricity from Public Utility District No. 1, spring 2026 brings two concrete developments: a major rural water infrastructure cycle closing out, and an electric rate increase that took effect April 1 — one that district staff managed to keep lower than originally authorized.

    Two Rural Water Systems Brought Up to Standard

    Mason County PUD No. 1 reported at its April 14, 2026 board meeting that the Manzanita Water Storage Project and the Arcadia Estates water system upgrade are both reaching completion. For property owners in and around those service areas — communities along the southern Hood Canal shoreline, Union, and rural Hoodsport — this represents the end of a multi-year capital investment cycle that directly affects property infrastructure reliability.

    The Manzanita project carried total construction funding of $4.6 million, with the storage tank contract of $3,745,725 awarded to Rognlin’s Inc. of Aberdeen in June 2025. Construction began in September 2025 and reached close-out reporting by the April board meeting. The Arcadia Estates system upgrade was completed in the same reporting window. These are not cosmetic improvements — they are foundational upgrades to the water storage and distribution systems that serve rural residential customers whose properties depend on PUD 1 service for potable water.

    For property owners, updated water infrastructure is a material factor in property condition and insurability. Aging rural water systems carry risk of service disruptions, pressure inconsistencies, and compliance issues. PUD 1’s investment in these systems reduces that risk profile for affected properties.

    PUD 1 has also submitted a $5.6 million Congressionally Directed Spending request — a federal appropriations mechanism — to fund the next phase of rural water system improvements. If awarded, it extends the district’s infrastructure investment without corresponding local rate increases, which is relevant to property owners watching the long-term cost trajectory of utility services in the county.

    April 1 Electric Rate Increase: 3.0% — Here’s the Math

    Effective April 1, 2026, the residential basic monthly charge increased from $45.86 to $47.26. The energy rate moved from $0.09670 to $0.09960 per kilowatt-hour. The net effect on a typical residential bill is approximately 3.0%.

    The cost driver is external: the Bonneville Power Administration raised its power rate by 6% and its transmission rate by 11.7% for 2026. PUD 1, like most public utility districts in Washington State, buys wholesale power from BPA and must pass through a portion of those increases. What’s notable is what PUD 1 held back — the district originally had board authorization for a larger increase, but secured a federal emergency management grant that allowed them to reduce the rate adjustment to 3.0% rather than implementing the full authorized amount.

    For property owners with rental units, vacation properties, or investment parcels in Mason County, the 3.0% increase is modest. On a property drawing 800 kWh per month, the monthly cost increase is approximately $2.65 — about $32 per year. Properties with higher draws (electric heat, water pumps, outbuildings) will see proportionally more, but the rate structure remains among the more affordable in the Puget Sound region.

    What PUD 1 Serves — and What It Doesn’t

    Property owners in Mason County sometimes confuse the three PUDs operating in the county. PUD No. 1 provides electric service to customers across Mason County and also operates rural water systems in specific communities — Shelton, Hoodsport, Union, and areas along the Hood Canal south shore. It is not the same district as PUD No. 3, which serves different territory and recently made news for its fiber internet buildout.

    If your property is on a PUD 1 water system and you are uncertain whether the Manzanita or Arcadia Estates project areas are adjacent to your parcel, the district’s customer service line can confirm service area boundaries. PUD 1 is located at 21971 N. Highway 101, Shelton, WA 98584. The main contact number is (360) 426-8255.

    Frequently Asked Questions — PUD 1 for Mason County Property Owners

    What is the new PUD 1 residential electric rate as of April 1, 2026?

    The basic monthly charge is now $47.26 (up from $45.86) and the energy rate is $0.09960 per kWh (up from $0.09670). The overall increase on a typical residential bill is 3.0%, less than the originally authorized amount because the district secured a federal grant to offset the increase.

    Did PUD 1 complete the Manzanita water project?

    Yes. The Manzanita Water Storage Project reached close-out reporting at the April 14, 2026 PUD 1 board meeting. Total construction funding was $4.6 million, with the primary contract awarded to Rognlin’s Inc. of Aberdeen. The Arcadia Estates water system upgrade was also completed in the same reporting cycle.

    Why did my PUD 1 electric bill go up if PUD 1 is a public utility?

    PUD 1 purchases wholesale power from the Bonneville Power Administration, which serves most Pacific Northwest public utilities. BPA raised its power rate 6% and transmission rate 11.7% for 2026, forcing PUD 1 to pass through a portion of that increase. The district reduced its own rate adjustment to 3.0% by securing a federal emergency management grant.

    Does the $5.6 million federal funding request affect my PUD 1 rates?

    If awarded, the $5.6 million Congressionally Directed Spending request would fund additional rural water system improvements without requiring a corresponding rate increase. It is a pending federal appropriations request, not yet approved, but it represents PUD 1’s strategy for continuing infrastructure investment while managing customer rate impacts.

    How do I contact Mason County PUD 1 about my service area or property?

    PUD 1 customer service is reachable at (360) 426-8255. The district office is at 21971 N. Highway 101, Shelton, WA 98584. Board meetings are public and held monthly — the April 14, 2026 meeting is when the Manzanita and Arcadia project completions were formally reported.

    For the full Mason County PUD 1 story including the rate change details and how PUD 1 reduced the increase below authorized levels, see Mason County PUD 1 Wraps Major Water Projects, New Rates Take Effect April 1. For context on Mason County’s broader infrastructure landscape, see Mason County Government: April 2026 Updates.

  • 2026 Potlatch Shellfish Season: Hood Canal Harvest Guide

    2026 Potlatch Shellfish Season: Hood Canal Harvest Guide

    Mason County shellfish harvesters have roughly five weeks left in the spring season at Potlatch State Park and the adjacent Potlatch DNR beach — two of the most accessible and productive harvest beaches on Hood Canal. The season runs April 1 through May 31, 2026, and a handful of new regulations took effect this year that harvesters should know before they head to the water.

    Potlatch Beach: What’s Open and What Changed in 2026

    Potlatch State Park sits along U.S. Highway 101 approximately 12 miles north of Shelton, just past Hoodsport on the western shore of Hood Canal. The park’s beach and the adjacent Potlatch DNR tidelands together make up one of the most regularly harvested shellfish areas in Mason County, accessible to anglers and families who don’t need a boat to reach productive oyster, clam, and mussel beds.

    For 2026, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife updated two regulations that affect harvest at Potlatch and throughout Hood Canal:

    Cockle minimum size increased to 2.5 inches. The minimum legal size for cockles taken from Hood Canal beaches, including Potlatch, increased from the prior standard to 2.5 inches shell diameter. Harvesters should carry a simple gauge or measuring tool to avoid taking undersized cockles.

    Geoduck daily limit reduced to 1 per person per day. The geoduck limit on Hood Canal dropped to 1 geoduck per person per day. Geoducks require a separate license from standard shellfish-seaweed licenses and are subject to area-specific regulations that can change annually.

    A practical note for those driving out from Shelton, Belfair, or other parts of the county: Highway 101 shoulder parking along the Potlatch segment — mileposts 335.07 to 335.72 — is actively enforced. Use designated parking areas at the state park and DNR beach rather than pulling off on the highway shoulder.

    The Skokomish Tribal Nation holds treaty rights over tidelands in parts of Hood Canal, including areas adjacent to the state park. Harvesters on Potlatch tidelands should be aware of tribal area boundaries and ensure they are on state or DNR-managed beach rather than tribally-held tidelands.

    Alternate Beaches When Potlatch Is Crowded

    The Potlatch beach is popular on weekends, particularly during the last weeks of the season as May 31 approaches. Two nearby alternates are worth knowing:

    WDFW Hoodsport Hatchery beach is open for shellfish harvest through July 31, 2026. The hatchery is located in Hoodsport on U.S. Highway 101, and the associated public tidelands offer an option for harvesters who want to stay in the Hoodsport-Hood Canal corridor. Check WDFW regulations for current limits and open species before visiting.

    Eagle Creek shellfish area is open for oyster harvest year-round. It is a smaller, less trafficked option for Mason County residents who want access outside the May 31 season closure at Potlatch.

    Before any harvest outing, verify current status at WDFW’s shellfish safety hotline or online at wdfw.wa.gov — Hood Canal beaches are subject to emergency closure if water quality tests indicate biotoxin or bacterial contamination. Closures can happen with short notice, especially after rain events flush runoff into the canal.

    Common Ground at the Y: New Outdoor Space Opens in Shelton

    On the south-county end, Shelton’s outdoor recreation scene added something new in mid-April. The Shelton Family YMCA officially opened Common Ground at the Y, a transformation of the organization’s nearly 10-acre campus into a shared outdoor community space. The project was funded through a T-Mobile Hometown Grant and built in partnership with Mason Conservation District, Hope Plaza, Beko’s Tree Service, Mason Matters, Mason County Community Justice (MCCJ), and the Squaxin Island Tribe.

    The campus now includes forest therapy trails, native plant gardens, gathering areas, educational and art installations, and natural play features. The Huff ‘n’ Puff Trail — a 1.8-mile loop on the YMCA property maintained by the Shelton Rotary Club — is open to members and the public. Non-member access is available with a suggested $20 donation, and Mason Transit offers free shuttles to the campus for stewardship and programming events.

    Common Ground at the Y is a different kind of outdoor option than Hood Canal’s beaches — more structured, more accessible for families with young children, and designed to serve as a gathering point for community conservation activity. For Mason County residents who want to connect with local conservation organizations or just get their family into green space without a drive to the canal, the YMCA campus at Shelton is worth a visit. The YMCA is located in Shelton; contact the Shelton Family YMCA directly for current programming hours and shuttle schedules.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    When does the Potlatch shellfish season close in 2026?

    The spring shellfish season at Potlatch State Park and Potlatch DNR beach closes May 31, 2026. The season opened April 1. Harvesters have roughly five weeks remaining as of late April.

    What shellfish can I harvest at Potlatch in 2026?

    Oysters, clams, mussels, and cockles are available at Potlatch. Geoduck harvest is permitted at 1 per person per day with a valid license. The cockle minimum size increased to 2.5 inches in 2026. Always verify current species-specific limits at wdfw.wa.gov before heading out.

    Is there parking at Potlatch State Park for shellfish harvesting?

    Yes, use designated parking inside the state park and at the DNR beach access area. Highway 101 shoulder parking between mileposts 335.07 and 335.72 is actively enforced — do not park on the highway shoulder.

    How do I check if Potlatch beach is open before I go?

    Call the WDFW shellfish safety hotline or check the current status at wdfw.wa.gov. Hood Canal beaches can close on short notice due to biotoxin or bacterial contamination. Checking before a long drive saves a wasted trip.

    Where is Common Ground at the Y in Shelton?

    Common Ground at the Y is on the Shelton Family YMCA campus in Shelton. The site includes forest therapy trails, native gardens, and the 1.8-mile Huff ‘n’ Puff Trail maintained by the Shelton Rotary Club. Mason Transit offers free shuttles for stewardship events. Contact the Shelton Family YMCA for current hours and programming details.

    Related coverage: First time at Potlatch? See Mason County’s Beginner Guide to Hood Canal Shellfish Harvesting. Hood Canal property owners, see Shellfish Access, Tribal Boundaries, and the 2026 Season: A Property Owner’s Guide.