Burley Lagoon facts for kids
Burley Lagoon is a beautiful area of land and water, about 358-acre (1.45 km2) big. It's found on the Key Peninsula, stretching across parts of Pierce County, Washington and Kitsap County, Washington. This special lagoon is connected to the famous Puget Sound.
Most of the water in the lagoon (about 60%) is in Pierce County. However, most of the land around it, called the watershed uplands, is in Kitsap County. A company called Western Oyster Company grows shellfish like oysters and clams here. All of their farms are located in Pierce County. This area used to be mostly countryside, but now more and more people are moving here, so it's growing fast.
The Purdy Bridge and Purdy Sand Spit Park act like a natural barrier. They separate Burley Lagoon from Henderson Bay, Washington. The small town of Purdy, Washington is right on the shores of Burley Lagoon.
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What is Burley Lagoon?
Burley Lagoon is a type of shallow body of water that is partly separated from a larger body of water. It's like a calm, sheltered bay. The lagoon gets fresh water from streams and rivers that flow into it. It also mixes with saltwater from the Puget Sound. This mix of fresh and salt water creates a unique environment.
Where is Burley Lagoon Located?
Burley Lagoon is on the Key Peninsula in Washington State. This peninsula is a finger of land that reaches into the Puget Sound. The lagoon itself is split between two counties: Pierce County and Kitsap County. This means that different parts of the lagoon are managed by different local governments.
What Lives in Burley Lagoon?
Because Burley Lagoon has a mix of fresh and salt water, it's home to many different plants and animals. It's a great place for many types of fish, birds, and other wildlife. Shellfish, like oysters and clams, also thrive here. The Western Oyster Company uses parts of the lagoon to grow these shellfish for people to eat. This shows how important the lagoon is for both nature and local businesses.
Why is Burley Lagoon Important?
Burley Lagoon is important for several reasons. It provides a home for wildlife and supports the shellfish industry. It's also a beautiful natural area that people enjoy. As more people move to the area, the lagoon becomes even more important. It offers a place for recreation and helps keep the local ecosystem healthy.
What are the Environmental Concerns?
One of the main concerns for Burley Lagoon is about a possible new bridge. The Washington State Department of Transportation is looking into building a bridge over the lagoon. Some people are worried about this project. They are concerned it might affect the lagoon's environment. For example, it could impact the water quality or the animals that live there. Building a bridge can also change traffic patterns and the look of the area. People want to make sure any new construction protects this special natural place.
