Ocean Shores advisory board readies freshwater master plan; flags toxic algae, harvesting and carp questions

Becky Leach, project manager for the city, told the Ocean Shores Freshwaterways Advisory Board on Wednesday that the city’s Fresh Waterways Master Plan, prepared by Herrera Consultants, is due in June and will prioritize recent increases in toxic algae and invasive aquatic vegetation.

Leach said Herrera’s scope covers the lake and canals and will feed recommended projects, cost estimates and bid documents back to the mayor and city administration for decisions and possible grant pursuit. "The Fresh Waterways Master Plan is due in June from Herrera," Leach said.

The master plan matters because board members and residents reported more aggressive toxic algae in local canals in recent years and recurring invasive plants that block navigation and add biomass to the bottom. Leach offered free water test kits that she said she can bring to the next meeting for board members to collect samples and return for laboratory identification of the algae types.

Board members discussed operational next steps Herrera will support. Leach said the consultant will help write bid…