Strong winter storms and king tides have contributed to the erosion of the concrete boat ramp at Possession Beach Waterfront Park in Clinton, according to the Port of South Whidbey.

To warn the public about the steep drop-off beyond the ramp, curb stops have been placed at the end of it, and additional signage will be posted, a recent press release stated. The ramp can only be used during higher tides of four feet or above.

“The Port has begun the permitting process required for repairs and future improvements with the Army Corps of Engineers and other state and local agencies,” the release said. “Because the ramp is located within a sensitive marine environment, repair work must follow state and federal regulations designed to protect shoreline habitat, including restrictions during salmon spawning season.”

Replacement of the boat ramp has been long overdue. According to a previous South Whidbey Record story, the port district received a $262,500 grant to replace the boarding floats. The current six floats were built in 1987 with heavy timber and Styrofoam floatation. Over the years they have deteriorated and become severely warped, twisting into a perilous spiral shape at low tide.