The week-long proceedings before five members of the state’s Shoreline Hearings Board ended on Monday, December 18 with closing arguments. Board members heard from Fern Cove Preservation Alliance attorney Wyatt Golding, and also from lawyers for King County and for permit applicant, Michael Kollins. At issue is the County’s decision to permit Mr. Kollins’ 10-acre commercial kelp farm at the entrance to Fern Cove.

Board members are required to reach a decision by March 1, 2024. While we eagerly await the verdict we’ll be sharing our “prehearing brief”, which laid out our positions, and Mr. Goldings closing argument.

Remember that to start operating the kelp farm proposal still needs to obtain a permit from the US Army Corps of Engineers and a lease from the state Department of Natural Resources. We’ll be tracking the progress of both.

Thanks to everyone out there who’s been supporting our efforts with dollars, testimony, web design skills, interest, ideas and encouragement. Fingers crossed.