Public being notified of drone use of Willapa Bay

A drone will be used over Willapa Bay and the public is being notified that photos will be taken and that activities in the area may be impacted during the work.

According to the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife, they are alerting the public who may be using the area near the Smith Creek restoration project near Willapa Bay on Monday, August 19.

WDFW says that they will use the drone to document changes in water channels and how tidal flows are returning to wetlands. 

The Smith Creek restoration project is designed to open up to 6.5 miles of high-quality habitat for fish.

Habitat biologist Lauren Bauernschmidt said the drone will be flown between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. for approximately 60 to 90 minutes on Aug. 19.

The drone flight will allow scientists to collect images safely, while also efficiently providing a unique perspective from above. 

WDFW says that their hope of informing the public will reduce the chance of interrupting people recreating or working in the area.