State Parks asks for public input on Navy exercises

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The U.S. Navy has submitted an application to the Washington State Parks Commission to conduct special operations training exercises in 29 Western Washington state parks, according to a press release.

A report of the application will be presented at a March 12 commission meeting in Chelan.

Members of the public who wish to comment on the application can do so in person at the meeting or in advance online or by mail.

There will be an opportunity for Jefferson County residents to comment locally on the application on May 6 at Fort Worden State Park.

After the two periods of public comment, the commission is expected to make a decision on the application in the spring or summer.

According to the Washington State Parks website, this application does not include any request to use simulated munitions or drones in state parks.

The commission will consider agency policy, staff recommendations, environmental reviews and public input before reaching a decision.

Interested parties can find out more about how to submit comments, as well as review the application and supporting documents at parks.state.wa.us/navyproposal.

The U.S. Navy holds a “Right of Entry” permit to conduct training in five Puget Sound area state parks. That five-year permit expires May 1.