“The leaves fall patiently; nothing remembers or grieves. The river takes to the sea, the yellow drift of leaves.” —Sara Teasdale

Emergencies at the Port

In the past, when emergencies occurred at the Port of Brownsville such as power outages on the docks, fires, or other incidents requiring management or maintenance—you would need to contact the Port Manager directly. However, we have now embraced a more modern approach with an on-call number. If you encounter an emergency during or after hours, please call the main office number, and you will be connected to the On-Call Staff or a Management member.

We kindly request that you make only one call, as multiple calls can complicate response coordination. Additionally, please refrain from contacting the Port Manager or Maintenance Supervisor for emergencies. This streamlined process ensures a swift and organized response, allowing us to address issues effectively and minimize disruptions. We appreciate your cooperation in helping us maintain a safe and efficient environment for everyone at the port.

Remember, safety is a shared responsibility, and your awareness and prompt communication are invaluable. Whether you're a resident, visitor, or staff member, your role in reporting emergencies and potential hazards is crucial to our collective well-being. Together, we can continue to enjoy the vibrant and welcoming atmosphere of the Port of Brownsville, confident in the knowledge that we are all committed to the safety and security of our community.

Puget Sound: History of Name & Geography of Place

This month, we invite you to embark on a fascinating journey through the rich history and ecological importance of Puget Sound. In this article, we will delve into the geological fabric that defines this remarkable area and highlight its unique characteristics while beginning to uncover the wonders of our diverse ecosystems.

One of my favorite books for exploring the intricate history of Puget Sound—and a source of inspiration for my thesis—is D.B. Williams' Homewaters. Mr. Williams skillfully intertwines echoes of the past with the vibrancy of the present, shedding light on how the region's distinct geology shapes the cherished landscape we admire.

Through his eloquent writing, he reveals the world around us, forging connections between our lives and the magical environment of Puget Sound. His focus on the stories of place, enriched by threads of history and narrative, leaves a lasting impression.

Let us set sail on a journey through the fabric of time. In 1792, the first hints of Puget Sound's existence emerged from the brave explorations of the adventurous George Vancouver. Anchored off the shores of what we now know as Bainbridge Island, Captain Vancouver dispatched two sturdy rowboats, captained by the esteemed Peter Puget. After a week of exploration and careful mapping southward from their anchorage, they returned, having revealed the mysteries of the waters. In his journal, George Vancouver honored this magnificent expanse by naming it Puget’s Sound, commending his companion's “great exertions.”

Before Vancouver and his lieutenant set off on their journey, the region was known as x̌ʷəlč, often pronounced as "whulge." In Lushootseed, the indigenous language of the waterway, this term signifies a stretch of salt water. However, this meaning goes beyond the geographic boundaries of Puget Sound; it embodies a deep connection to the land itself.

Recently, there has been a movement toward adopting a more inclusive name: The Salish Sea. Geographically, this area stretches from the northern reaches of the Straits of Georgia to the Cape Flattery Lighthouse and the Makah Indian Reservation, covering all of Puget Sound's inland waters. The Salish Sea is an exquisitely beautiful network of channels and interconnected waterways, encompassing over 11,200 square miles and featuring more than 400 islands, with depths reaching nearly 2,200 feet.

The name Salish Sea originated from the vision of Bert Webber, a marine researcher from Bellingham, who sought to illustrate the interconnectedness of Puget Sound, the Straits of Juan de Fuca, and the Straits of Georgia. The reality is that these regions do not operate independently; they function collectively as a vast inland sea and would be best managed as such. This holistic perspective emphasizes the need for cooperation and stewardship across international and cultural boundaries to preserve the Salish Sea's ecological integrity.

The Salish Sea and more closely to home the Puget Sound and Burke Bay is a treasure trove of biodiversity, home to an array of marine life, including orcas, salmon, sea otters, and countless other species that depend on its rich and varied habitats. Its waters are a living tapestry that reflects both natural and cultural histories, with First Nations and Native American tribes having lived along its shores for millennia, drawing sustenance and spiritual significance from its bounty.

As we navigate the complex challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, it becomes increasingly vital to honor and protect the Salish Sea. Collaborative efforts among local communities, governments, and environmental organizations have made strides in addressing issues such as pollution, habitat loss, and species conservation. Programs aimed at restoring salmon runs and improving water quality are crucial to ensuring the health of this vibrant ecosystem.

In this spirit of stewardship, educational initiatives and public awareness campaigns play a key role in fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Salish Sea's wonders. By engaging people of all ages, we can inspire a collective commitment to safeguarding this unique region for future generations.

As we continue to explore the history and geography of Puget Sound and the Salish Sea, we are reminded of the interconnectedness of our natural world and the shared responsibility we hold in preserving its beauty and vitality. Let us embrace the legacy of those who have come before us and work together to nurture and protect this remarkable place we call home.

Events & Donations

In the rollercoaster ride of time at Brownsville, we’ve wrestled with a pesky challenge: a policy gap that made planning state-approved events feel like herding cats! This hiccup has really put a damper on our ability to throw safe bashes and secure shindigs on the Port Properties.

But hold onto your hats! In May, the Commissioners pulled a game-changing move with Resolution 24-13, unlocking a treasure chest of new opportunities. This shiny resolution lets us size up events and donations linked to the port when the Port Manager gets a peek at the applications. Our Port Manager then plays detective, weighing the event requests against potential risks and liabilities, while also looking for the good vibes it could bring. And who doesn’t love a little wiggle room in the rules?

Thanks to Resolution 24-13, our beloved community celebrations—like Haunted Harbor and Santa at the Lighthouse—are set to keep the fun rolling for years to come!

But wait, there’s even more excitement! We weren’t going to hit the brakes just yet. To ensure we could accept donations—be it tasty treats or cash—we crafted Resolution 24-18, giving the Port of Brownsville a big thumbs-up to welcome contributions. We’re itching to put this new policy into action, supercharging our community and creating the lively atmosphere we all envision for the Port of Brownsville and its fantastic folks!

The Port of Brownsville Commissioners and our Port Manager are bursting with enthusiasm and passion, ready to roll out fresh and thrilling events for the vibrant Brownsville community. They’re laser-focused on making sure every existing event at the Port meets state liability and safety standards, ensuring that every gathering is not just fun but also safe and sound! With these innovative resolutions in place, the future of the Port of Brownsville looks brighter than ever. As we step into this new era, we invite everyone to join us in celebrating community spirit and camaraderie. Whether it's through participating in events, volunteering, or simply sharing a smile, every contribution counts in making our port a welcoming haven for all.

Looking ahead, we are excited to explore even more creative ideas and partnerships that align with our mission of fostering inclusivity and joy. The Port of Brownsville is not just a place; it's a community hub where connections are made, stories are shared, and memories are created. Together, let's continue to build a legacy of unity and celebration that will inspire future generations.

So, mark your calendars and get ready for an exciting lineup of events! We can't wait to see everyone at the port, enjoying the festivities and contributing to the vibrant tapestry that is Brownsville. Here's to many more years of laughter, love, and community spirit at our beloved port!

If you are interested in holding a community event at the Port, please go to Moorage Info | Port of Brownsville