# Golf course proposal divides Westport state park

> Westport Light State Park faces golf course development that could split nature lovers, surfers and golfers.
- Title: Golf course proposal divides Westport state park | Shortify
- Summary: Westport Light State Park faces golf course development that could split nature lovers, surfers and golfers. Washington State Parks considers building a…
- Keywords: westport light state park, westport golf links, grays harbor county, seattle times, golf course, wetlands, coastal erosion, invasive species, fire risk, economic impact, public meeting, state parks commission
- Source: Seattletimes — https://seattletimes.com/life/outdoors/a-proposed-golf-course-at-wa-state-park-divides-recreationists
- Read time: 2 min
- Topics: westport light state park, westport golf links, grays harbor county, seattle times, golf course, wetlands, coastal erosion, invasive species, fire risk, economic impact, public meeting, state parks commission
## Westport Light State Park
Westport Light State Park is a coastal park in Grays Harbor County with 500,000 annual visitors generating $51.6 million in visitor spending.
## Golf course proposal
Westport Golf Links, a proposed links-style golf course, would cover one-third of the park and create 285 jobs in Grays Harbor County.
## Economic benefits
Proponents claim the golf course would generate $3 million in tax revenue and $1-2 million annually for park stewardship.
## Wetland concerns
The project would fill 35-43 acres of wetlands and create or rehabilitate 69 acres elsewhere, raising environmental concerns.
## Environmental review
The project has undergone environmental review with a draft impact statement released last year and requires permits from city, state and federal agencies.
## Surfers' concerns
Surfers fear fertilizer runoff and reduced wave quality from the golf course, which could impact coastal erosion and water quality.
## Golf course designer
Scottish golf course architect David McLay Kidd designed Westport Golf Links after previous proposals fizzled in the 2000s.
## Coastal erosion
The jetty built in the late 1800s has caused land accretion, but recent king tides and storms increase erosion risks for the golf course.
## Public meeting
The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission will hold a special meeting on Monday at Aberdeen High School to discuss the golf course proposal.
## Invasive species
The golf course aims to address invasive species and fire risk through park stewardship programs.
## Surfers' perspective
Surfers worry about water quality and wave disruption from the golf course, which could affect their beach access.
## Golfers' perspective
Golfers expect the course to attract visitors from across the country, creating economic benefits for the local community.
## Wetland impact
The Department of Ecology classified 386 acres of the park as Category 1 wetlands critical for wildlife and migratory shorebirds.
## Legal challenges
Environmental groups sued to block the golf course in 2024, but a judge ruled in 2025 that they lacked standing.
## Future decisions
The State Parks Commission will decide on the golf course proposal by the end of the month, balancing economic benefits and environmental concerns.
## Key takeaway

Washington State Parks considers building a $60-70 million golf course in Westport Light State Park, which may create jobs but risks wetland damage and coastal erosion.