State considers lift on shellfish ban

A state’s ban on shellfish harvesting in Holmes Harbor may be lifted in a couple of months. The Holmes Harbor Shellfish Protection District was established in 2006 after elevated levels of fecal coliform bacteria were discovered in water samples. Recent studies show bacteria levels are at unacceptable levels during the summer months, which is a situation that warrants allowing seasonal harvests to take place.

Sixth-graders study water quality

Students at Langley Middle School braved cold temperatures Dec. 9 to conduct experiments in South Whidbey Harbor. The assignment required students to observe pH levels, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, nitrates and temperature in the water.

Two take seats on school board

Rocco Gianni and Fred O’Neal took their oath of office Dec. 18 for their positions on the South Whidbey School District Board of Directors. The meeting also included asenior off-campus proposal and information from the Washington State School Directors Association conference.

Talk of selling 1950 fire truck tabled

Commissioners for South Whidbey Fire/EMS tabled discussions about selling a 1950 ford truck, which is a relic from the district’s formation in 1950. Commissioners want to know if the vehicle could be restored and used for such things as a parade vehicle or a center piece at one of the stations.