MANSON COMMUNITY COUNCIL HOSTS FIRE DISTRICT 5 COMMISSIONER WEISS

by Richard Uhlhorn

MANSON FIRE DISTRICT RISKS”
“We all live in a very dangerous place,” said District 5 Fire Commissioner Fred Weiss. Washington was upgraded to the fourth most dangerous wildfire state to live in behind California, Texas and Oregon.

He explained that fire danger now runs from May to November and the lack of snowpack this past winter has made fire danger even more volatile.

Weiss encouraged Manson residents to prepare for a wildfire event. He said landowners should build defensive space around their structures, remove firewood from the side of structures or homes, get rid of the flammable doormat, keep the gutters clean and screen the house vents.

“What’s the plan to notify everybody and keep them safe,” he said. Weiss also said that homeowners and residents should have ‘go bags’ ready just in case they had to evacuate.

Since Manson has only one way in and one way out, safety in place can be found at Manson High School or North Shore Church.

Weiss stated that currently there are 650 homes in the Manson area that are at risk and some of which the fire department cannot provide service too because of access issues. “Its really up to us to take care of our property,” he stated.

In July of 2002, an unattended campfire at the Deer Point Campgound ignited a wildfire that eventually torched 43,373 acres and directly threatened nearly 70 homes in Manson. The year before that, the Rex Creek Fire north of Deer Point also burned 43,000+ acres.

WASHINGTON STATE CONSERVATION DISTRICT:
A representative from the conservation district was on hand to report that 533 acres of agricultural land would be added to the district’s growing conservation lands.

She said that all of the conservation district programs are volunteer based. Her superior, who was unable to attend the meeting, spoke through a cell phone connection that was difficult to hear.

Manson councilman Gerry Ustanik asked about the property’s acquisition and was told the process began in 2024. The next question was how much the land owner was paid. She replied that he was offered fair market value but has not accepted the offer yet.

Dom Amor asked if the land was dedicated specifically for agriculture. She replied that it was. “The community might want in on what is happening here,” said Amor. He asked about crops (no canibus) and potential tax exemptions.

Phyllis Gleasman, a Manson orchardist, asked what the process was. “I’ve not seen anything on this,” she said. She was told that there were opportunities for all land owners in the county. There were other land owners also attending the meeting curious about the process. For more information visit the Conservation District’s website at: Washington State Conservation Commission

IN OTHER BUSINESS:
Manson orchardist Terry Urness told the council and attendees that the Urness family has one of the few remaining parcels of waterfront left on Lake Chelan. “Its not going to be replanted. It is difficult to continue farming now and this is a real good opportunity… a good fit for the community.” Urness thought that perhaps the Parks District might want to add the property to its park system. “It’s just an idea,” he said. Ustanik replied that it would be a good opportunity for the community.

Councilwoman Rene’ Commons reported that Hwy 97A by the tunnel will undergo more rock slide work in 2027. “They (DOT) are looking at slicing off a section for more catchment area for rock fall,” said Commons. “They still need to figure out how many work days this will take.”

Chelan County is looking at purchasing two properties in Manson for new substations.

Commons asked, “What do we want to see happen,” She stated that a master and shoreline plan was needed. Ustanik replied that a master plan needs to be put together.

DARK SKIES EVENT:
Ustanik reported that a Star Gazing party will take place on Wednesday, August 12 at Four Lakes Winery. “There will be 70 telescopes available and T-Shirts for sale. Turn your Lights out and Turn your Sky on,” he said.