Latest News in Chelan, WA

Sustainable NCW Earth Day Fair set for April 19 at Wenatchee Valley College

Wenatchee Valley College will host the Sustainable NCW Earth Day Fair on April 19, featuring over 50 local vendors and organizations, as well as various educational activities and entertainment. The event will include an Earth Day Fun Run, Eco-Talks, musical performances, and children's activities, all aimed at promoting environmental awareness. WVC President Faimous Harrison emphasized the fair's significance in fostering community engagement toward sustainability.

Lake Chelan community to host third annual shoreline cleanup event

Local environmental groups are gearing up for the third annual "Restore the Shore" cleanup at Lake Chelan on April 12, 2025. The event aims to preserve the lake's natural beauty and includes new data collection methods via the TrashBlitz app. Volunteers will receive refreshments from Campbell's Resort and can participate at various locations along the lakeshore.

North Cascades Highway Spring Clearing Update

Crews are making significant progress in clearing the Liberty Bell avalanche pathways on the North Cascades Highway, with the goal of completing the job early next week. Safety measures are in place, requiring the public to avoid the work zone during weekdays. While rumors of a "bike day" persist, there is no such event planned before the road officially opens to all vehicles.

Spring Maintenance and Inspection Work Planned for US 97-A Knapps Hill Tunnel

A maintenance crew from the Washington State Department of Transportation will be conducting work on the US 97A Knapps Hill tunnel on April 7, causing flagger-controlled traffic and potential delays. Scheduled from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., drivers should expect disruptions and consider alternative routes, especially those traveling between Wenatchee and Chelan. Real-time travel maps are recommended for current conditions.

Notice of Public Hearing - Unit Lot Subdivisions Code

A public hearing regarding the Unit Lot Subdivisions Code will take place in Chelan, Washington, starting on April 2, 2025, and concluding on April 16, 2025. This event, organized by the Planning Commission, aims to discuss important legal matters affecting local land use and development. Community members are encouraged to participate and voice their opinions on the proposed regulations.

DNR Commissioner Upthegrove Reflects on First Three Months in Office

Commissioner Dave Upthegrove of the Department of Natural Resources reflects on his first three months in office, highlighting significant strides in forest conservation and environmental education. He discusses a recent op-ed on pausing the sale of certain mature forests to better achieve habitat conservation goals while promoting biodiversity. The article also emphasizes his commitment to engaging with DNR employees and the importance of science in environmental policy.

Shoreline Permit Public Hearing 1320 W Woodin Ave

A public hearing regarding a shoreline permit at 1320 W Woodin Ave, Chelan, will take place from April 2 to April 22, 2025. This event addresses significant local concerns surrounding redevelopment and environmental impact. Residents are encouraged to engage in discussions important to their community.

Fatal Base-Jumping Accident Reported

A tragic base-jumping accident claimed the life of 47-year-old Elliot Barstow from Entiat, WA, on March 30, 2025. The incident occurred near Milepost 202 on Highway 97A when Barstow's parachute malfunctioned, leading to a fatal collision with a rock wall. The Chelan County Sheriff's Office has expressed condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.

WSDOT Provides Update on South Lakeshore Road Closure

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has announced plans to reopen a section of SR 971 South Lakeshore Road, closed since March 3 due to a rockslide. The project, expected to take approximately three weeks, involves rock removal and slope repairs, with work set to begin once the emergency contract is finalized. Travelers are advised to remain cautious in the area as rockfall risks persist even after repairs.

Manson School District Introduces Innovative SchoolAI Pilot Program

Manson High School has launched a pilot program using SchoolAI, an innovative platform aimed at enhancing educational experiences for students, teachers, and parents alike. The initiative focuses on personalized learning, ethical AI usage, and privacy compliance, preparing students for a future where AI skills are essential. Principal Kamie Kronbauer emphasizes the importance of responsible AI use and the program’s commitment to student safety.