Story Archive

September 24, 2026

Washington Ecology Releases 30-Year Cleanup Metrics for Bellingham Bay Waterfront

More than $300 million has been invested in cleaning up the Bellingham Bay waterfront over the past three decades, according to metrics released this week

Bellingham Cider Company Acquires Lost Giants in Local Craft Cider Merger

Bellingham's craft cider scene is consolidating. Bellingham Cider Company announced Wednesday, September 23, that it has purchased Lost Giants Cider Compan

Bellingham Fire Beats Police 20-7 in Friendly Softball Showdown

Bellingham firefighters proved Wednesday that the diamond belongs to them, topping the Bellingham Police Department 20 to 7 in a friendly softball game tha

Blaine Border Patrol and HSI Arrest Registered Sex Offender in Salem, Oregon

Agents from the Blaine Border Patrol Sector and Homeland Security Investigations arrested a Mexican national in Salem, Oregon, who was in the United States

Ferndale Crews Conduct Sewer Smoke Testing Thursday and Friday East of I-5

Ferndale residents east of Interstate 5 may notice something unusual coming from their roof vents, gutters, or manholes on Thursday and Friday: smoke. The

Lake Padden West Parking Lot Closes Monday for Reflector Installation Work

Visitors heading to Lake Padden Park this coming week will need to adjust their parking plans. The west parking lot at Lake Padden will be closed from Mond

Lincoln Street Repairs Move to Nighttime Hours Starting Monday to Ease Traffic

Drivers navigating the Lincoln Street corridor in Bellingham will get some daytime relief starting next week. The City of Bellingham announced Wednesday th

PSE Seeks 16% Electric Rate Hike; Two Public Hearings Open for Comment

Washington residents who pay Puget Sound Energy bills are about to get a formal chance to weigh in on proposed rate increases that could significantly rais

Vancouver Island Wildfire Sends Smoke Over Whatcom County, Rain Expected to Help

A wildfire on the southern tip of Vancouver Island sent smoke drifting into Whatcom County this week, affecting air quality across a broad swath of the reg

Western Gallery Opens Free Exhibition by Artist Rajkamal Kahlon on October 8

Western Washington University's Western Gallery will open a new exhibition of paintings by artist Rajkamal Kahlon on Thursday, October 8, with a free publi

Whatcom CD Highlights Salish Sea Health at SeaFeast This Weekend

The Salish Sea ranks among the most ecologically rich bodies of water in the world, supporting orca whales, five species of Pacific salmon, harbor and elep

Whatcom County Budget Could Eliminate Nine Sheriff Positions Including Six Deputies

Whatcom County's biennial budget planning process reached a critical checkpoint this week, and the implications for public safety are generating significan

Whatcom County Disposal of Toxics Facility to Update Its Hours in October

Whatcom County has announced upcoming changes to the hours of its Disposal of Toxics facility, with new operating hours taking effect in October 2026. The

Whatcom County Flood Preparedness Week Set for October 12-16

Whatcom County has designated the week of October 12 through 16 as Flood Preparedness Week, giving residents a structured opportunity to assess their readi

October 1 Brings Strict Soil Disturbance Rules to Three Whatcom Watersheds

If you live near Lake Whatcom, Lake Samish, or Lake Padden, a regulatory deadline is approaching that affects what you can do in your own yard. Starting Oc

Whatcom Studio Tour Returns October 3-4 and 10-11 Across the County

The Whatcom Artist Studio Tour returns this fall for two weekends of open studios, giving Whatcom County residents a rare opportunity to meet working artis

September 23, 2026

Bellingham Joins Regional Lawsuit Over Trump Administration Federal Grant Conditions

The City of Bellingham has joined a federal lawsuit against the Trump administration challenging conditions the city says are being illegally attached to f

Bellingham Parks Opens Registration for Fall Badminton League at Bloedel Donovan

Bellingham Parks and Recreation still has spots open for its fall Badminton League, with league play set to begin Wednesday, September 30 at Bloedel Donova

Bellingham Schools Issues Statement Addressing Social Media Rumors About Building Tours

Bellingham Public Schools issued a formal statement on Tuesday, September 22, addressing community concerns that spread on social media about recent tours

Whatcom Sheriff Staff and 19 Regional Leaders Complete FBI-LEEDA Training in Bellingham

Two members of the Whatcom County Sheriff's Office have completed the Command Leadership Institute through FBI-LEEDA, capping a week-long training tha

WWU Student Magazine Klipsun Wins Top International Award at AEJMC Conference

The student journalists behind Klipsun magazine at Western Washington University took home the top prize for student-produced magazines at the Association

Missing Indigenous Teen Last Seen Near Ferndale, Lummi Police Seek Tips

Authorities are searching for a 13-year-old Indigenous girl who was last seen more than a week ago near Ferndale in Whatcom County. The Washington State Pa

Bellingham Man Sentenced to Eight Years for Child Sexual Assault in Sudden Valley

A Bellingham man convicted of sexually assaulting a child in the Sudden Valley community of Whatcom County was sentenced Tuesday, September 22 to eight and

Tanker Truck Overturns on Taylor Street in South Bellingham

A tanker truck overturned on Taylor Street in south Bellingham on Monday, September 21, blocking the roadway between 32nd Street and Douglas Avenue for sev

All Three Whatcom County State Parks Are Free This Saturday for Public Lands Day

Residents across Whatcom County have a free outdoor opportunity this Saturday, September 26, as the Washington State Department of Natural Resources celebr

Whatcom County Unemployment Rate Jumps Nearly a Full Point in August

Whatcom County's unemployment rate rose sharply in August, jumping from 3.6 percent in July to 4.5 percent, according to the latest data from the Wash

Whatcom County Dog Photo Contest Closes Soon With Prizes for Winners

Whatcom County Public Works is reminding dog owners that only a few days remain to enter the We Scoop Dog Photo Contest, a community campaign tied to the c

WWU Ranked No. 1 Best Value Among Pacific Northwest Regional Universities

Western Washington University has been ranked the top best-value institution among regional universities in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, according to the

September 22, 2026

Bellingham Firefighter Paul Lewis Earns Boat Operator Certification

The Bellingham Fire Department announced Monday that Firefighter Paul Lewis has become a fully certified BFD Boat Operator, adding another credentialed mar

Blaine Border Patrol Arrests UK Citizen and 19 Others Near Lynden After Illegal Entry

Agents from the Blaine Sector of U.S. Border Patrol arrested a United Kingdom citizen near Lynden, Washington, after he illegally crossed into the United S

Brushfire Near Drayton Harbor Scorches More Than 4 Acres in Blaine Sunday

Firefighters from two agencies spent roughly five hours battling a brushfire that broke out Sunday afternoon near the intersection of Drayton Harbor Road a

Diesel Hits Record $7.08 Per Gallon in Whatcom County, Up a Dollar From Last Month

Diesel fuel prices in Whatcom County have hit an all-time record high, averaging $7.08 per gallon as of Monday, September 21, according to AAA data. That f

Free Preschool Expanding to Lynden, Ferndale, and Blaine Schools Under State Program

Several Whatcom County school buildings are receiving new early childhood classrooms this school year through a statewide expansion of Washington's Early C

Liquid Hydrogen Tanker Overturns on Taylor Street, Closes Road for Hours

A liquid hydrogen tanker truck overturned Monday afternoon on Taylor Avenue in Bellingham's Happy Valley neighborhood, triggering a multi-agency emergency

Lummi Island Ferry Service Planned Outage Set for October 21

Whatcom County has announced a planned service outage for the Lummi Island ferry on October 21, affecting residents and visitors who rely on the Whatcom Ch

State Street in Downtown Bellingham Closing Overnight Wednesday for Film Production

A section of State Street in downtown Bellingham will close overnight Wednesday, September 23 into early Thursday morning for a major film production, with

Sumas Man Dies After Medical Episode Causes Crash on SR 547 Friday Night

A 48-year-old Sumas man died Friday night after experiencing a medical episode while driving north on State Route 547, according to the Washington State Pa

Whatcom County Deputy Sandro Markovic Graduates From State Corrections Academy

Corrections Deputy Sandro Markovic of the Whatcom County Sheriff's Office graduated from the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission Correcti

Whatcom County Tool Lets Residents Check Their Flood Risk Before October Preparedness Week

With Flood Preparedness Week scheduled for October 12 through 16, Whatcom County Public Works is encouraging residents to use the county's free online Natu

Whatcom County Hosting Public Open House September 30 on Budget, Elections, and Winter Prep

Whatcom County is inviting residents to ask questions directly of county staff at a free open house on Wednesday, September 30, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at

Judicial Panel at Whatcom Community College Draws Large Crowd to Discuss Courts and Threats

A panel discussion featuring three prominent women jurists drew a well-attended audience to Syre Hall at Whatcom Community College last Saturday morning, c

WWU Design Graduate Transforms Look of Historic Rome Bakery and Market Near Mount Baker

What began as a classroom assignment at Western Washington University in 2023 has grown into a lasting and visible rebrand for the Rome Bakery and Market,

September 20, 2026

Blaine Border Patrol Arrests 25 People With Criminal Histories Over Weekend

U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Blaine Sector made a series of arrests over the weekend, detaining two Mexican nationals with documented criminal

Your Guide to Fall Oyster Season in Bellingham and Whatcom County

If you have been waiting for oyster season to return to Whatcom County, the wait is over. Fall is widely considered the best time of year to eat oysters in

Sumas Man Dies in Medical Episode Crash on Reese Hill Road Friday Night

A 48-year-old Sumas man died Friday night after suffering a medical episode while driving northbound on Reese Hill Road, also known as State Route 547, in

September 19, 2026

Whatcom County Health Issues Safety Tips for Fall Apple Cider Pressing

Fresh-pressed apple cider is one of the defining tastes of fall in Whatcom County, where backyard orchards, community pressing events, and small-batch loca

Bellingham Bay Marathon Sunday Morning Will Affect County Road Traffic

Drivers heading out on Whatcom County roads this Sunday morning should plan for slower travel as the annual Bellingham Bay Marathon takes over portions of

Two Festivals Are Coming to Downtown Bellingham in October

Downtown Bellingham is set to host two distinct festivals within the same ten-day window this October, giving residents and visitors a back-to-back stretch

Ferndale Sewer Smoke Testing Runs September 21-25 Near Thornton Road

Ferndale residents living north of Thornton Road and west of Vista Drive may be surprised to see wisps of smoke emerging from unexpected places next week.

Lummi Island Ferry Schedules Q4 Punch Card Sales, Including New Saturday Events

Lummi Island residents who rely on the Whatcom County ferry to travel to and from the mainland have a set of upcoming punch card sales and exchange events

Lynden Schools Accepting Highly Capable Program Referrals Through October 9

Parents, teachers, and community members in the Lynden School District have a limited window to refer students for Highly Capable Program testing this fall

PeaceHealth Laying Off 17 Bellingham Employees as IT Services Move to India

PeaceHealth has filed a WARN notice with the Washington State Employment Security Department announcing it will eliminate 150 positions across Washington o

Search Underway for Missing 78-Year-Old Hiker on Sauk Mountain Trail

A search and rescue operation is underway in Skagit County for a 78-year-old man who went missing Thursday while hiking the Sauk Mountain Trail. Peter Kala

Whatcom County Offers $500 Rebate for Temporary Fencing on Small Farms

Fall is here, and Whatcom County farmers have a financial incentive to protect their pastures and waterways before the wet season sets in. The Whatcom Cons

Whatcom County Council Members Heading to Point Roberts for Community Q&A Monday

Three members of the Whatcom County Council will travel to Point Roberts on Monday, September 21 for a community Q&A session, giving residents of the i

WWU Design Student Gives a Historic Whatcom Roadside Market a Fresh Look

A classroom assignment at Western Washington University has grown into something considerably more than a grade. What started as a business redesign projec

WWU Plans New Health Sciences College and Possible Switch to Semester Calendar

Western Washington University is entering the 2026-2027 academic year with a set of significant structural changes on the horizon. In his annual state of t

September 18, 2026

New Amtrak Airo Trains Begin Cascades Service Through Bellingham on September 30

Passengers riding the Amtrak Cascades through Bellingham are about to travel in much newer equipment. Amtrak has announced that two Airo trainsets will ent

Bellingham Airport to Simulate Aircraft Emergency This Saturday Morning

Drivers and residents near Bellingham International Airport should be aware of some unusual activity this Saturday morning. The Port of Bellingham is hosti

Bellingham Seeks Volunteers for Fall Park Work Parties and Trail Projects

The City of Bellingham is heading into its annual fall parks and trails volunteer season with several opportunities for residents to get outside and give b

Bellingham Pursuit Ends at Ferndale Spike Strips After Suspect Calls 911 Mid-Chase

A 35-year-old man is facing multiple charges after a police pursuit that began in Bellingham and ended in Ferndale early Tuesday morning, September 15, wit

Two Donkeys Wander Into Bellingham Fire Station, Owner Still Unknown

A pair of wandering donkeys made an unexpected stop at a Bellingham fire station last weekend, setting off a slow-speed chase involving both the Bellingham

Friends of the Library Book Sale Returns to Bellingham September 24-26

Book lovers in Bellingham have a reason to clear their shelves and their schedules. The Friends of the Bellingham Public Library are holding their Septembe

Algae Bloom at Lake Padden Prompts Water Quality Alert From RE Sources

Bellingham residents planning to swim, kayak, or let their dogs play at Lake Padden are being urged to use caution after environmental nonprofit RE Sources

Sunken 98-Year-Old Boat Slowly Being Removed From Lake Whatcom This Summer

A 98-year-old wooden boat that sank in Lake Whatcom in late May has been partially removed after spending nearly four months below the waterline, raising c

Whatcom County Locks In $25 Million Federal Grant for New Lummi Island Ferry

After years of planning, design revisions, and federal paperwork, Whatcom County has finalized a $25 million grant agreement with the U.S. Department of Tr

Nearly $780,000 in State Grants Funds Three Nooksack Salmon Habitat Projects

Washington State's Salmon Recovery Funding Board has awarded nearly $780,000 for three habitat restoration projects in the Nooksack watershed, the latest r

SunnylandFest, Taste of Ferndale, and Vegfest Headline a Packed Whatcom Weekend

Whatcom County residents have an unusually full weekend ahead, with warm weather expected and a lineup that ranges from an Oktoberfest-themed brewery crawl

Moody's Keeps Western Washington University Rated A1 Stable, Citing Strong Finances

Western Washington University received a vote of confidence from one of the country's major credit rating agencies this week. Moody's Ratings published an

September 17, 2026

Two Injured in Black Bear Encounter North of Lake Whatcom, Second Attack in a Month

Two people, including a child, were injured after encountering a black bear at a private residence north of Lake Whatcom in Whatcom County, according to th

BP Cherry Point Refinery Begins Planned Maintenance With Visible Flaring Expected

Residents near Blaine, Birch Bay, and the Cherry Point industrial area may notice visible flames at the BP Cherry Point Refinery over the coming weeks. The

BPD and Sheriff Deputies Corral Two Escaped Donkeys Roaming Bellingham Road

Two four-legged fugitives led Bellingham Police Department officers and a Whatcom County Sheriff's Office deputy on one of the more unusual pursuits in rec

Ferndale Main Street Lane Shift Planned Friday for Civic Campus Utility Work

Drivers heading through downtown Ferndale on Saturday, September 19, should expect traffic delays on Main Street as crews carry out utility work tied to th

Free Paint Drop-Off Event Set for October 3 at Barkley Village in Bellingham

Whatcom County residents and businesses with old or leftover paint sitting in their garages now have a convenient option for getting rid of it safely and f

Northwest Licensing Office Moves From Cedarwood to Cordata Parkway This Week

If you have been putting off a trip to the vehicle licensing office in Bellingham, here is an important update before you make the drive: Northwest Licensi

Bellingham Man Builds Weekly Stargazing Community That Draws Hundreds to Local Parks

Every week, in parks across Bellingham and Whatcom County, a man named Robert Wilmore sets up his telescopes and waits to see who shows up. What began in 2

Whatcom County Executive Satpal Sidhu Will Not Seek Reelection in 2027

Whatcom County will be looking for a new top executive next year. County Executive Satpal Sidhu announced Monday evening, September 15, that he will not ru

Whatcom County Flood Preparedness Week Set for October 12-16

Flood season is approaching in Whatcom County, and local emergency managers are asking residents to start getting ready now. Whatcom County Public Works an

September 16, 2026

Bellingham Approves Zoning Exemption to Accelerate Affordable Housing Construction

The Bellingham City Council voted unanimously on Monday, September 14, to give final approval to a new Low-Income Housing Development Incentive, an ordinan

Bellingham City Council Votes to Ban Kratom and 7-OH Sales in City Limits

The Bellingham City Council voted unanimously on Monday, September 14, to approve an ordinance that prohibits the sale, distribution, and preparation of kr

Bellingham Public Library Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month With Books and Displays

The Bellingham Public Library is marking Hispanic Heritage Month with special staff recommendations, curated book lists, and in-branch displays highlightin

Bellingham Public Schools Closed This Friday for Teacher Workday

Bellingham Public Schools will not hold classes this Friday, September 18, as the district has scheduled a teacher workday. Students at all grade levels ac

Bellingham Creates Urban Transformation Strategist Role to Help Businesses Navigate City Hall

Mayor Kim Lund has created a new position within her administration aimed at making it easier for businesses, developers, and creative enterprises to work

Two More Suspects Arrested in Birch Bay Motorcycle Gang Shooting From Labor Day Weekend

Two additional suspects have been arrested in connection to a gang-related shooting in Birch Bay that occurred over Labor Day Weekend, bringing the total n

Gillies Road Near Alm and Lindsay Roads to Close Weekdays Starting September 21

Whatcom County Public Works will close a section of Gillies Road beginning Monday, September 21, for bridge repair work that is expected to run through Fri

Home Fire South of Everson Injures One Person During Renovation Work

A house fire south of Everson on Tuesday afternoon sent one person to the hospital with a burn injury after flames broke out at a home where renovation wor

Lynden Police Sting Nets Lynnwood Man After Resident Loses $60,000 in Courier Scam

A Lynnwood man is facing felony charges after Lynden police set up a sting operation that caught him arriving to collect more cash from a Lynden resident h

PUD Emergency Pipeline Replacement Closes Roads in Western Whatcom County

Public Utility District No. 1 of Whatcom County is in the middle of an emergency replacement of a deteriorating water transmission pipeline in western What

Salish Landing Park Takes Shape on Bellingham's Waterfront After a Decade of Planning

Construction is underway on Salish Landing Park, Bellingham's newest public park and one of the most complex environmental remediation and public space pro

Samish Way Sewer Replacement Starting in October Will Bring Nighttime Work Near Sehome

Residents near Bellingham's Sehome neighborhood should expect months of late-night construction noise starting in October, after the Bellingham City Counci

Whatcom County Reminds Residents to Stagger Water Use to Protect Septic Systems

Whatcom County Public Works is reminding residents with septic systems to use water efficiently and stagger the use of water-based appliances, particularly

September 15, 2026

Bellingham City Council Overhauls Meeting Format Starting This Week

Bellingham residents who attend or watch City Council meetings are facing a new set of rules starting with this week's regular session. Public comment has

Fire Destroys Frozen Fish Products at Bellingham Cold Storage Facility on Hilton Avenue

A fire broke out Saturday night, September 12, at a cold storage facility on Hilton Avenue in Bellingham, causing significant damage to the building and de

Court Documents Reveal Racist Threats in Suspected Bellingham Walmart Hate Crime

A 51-year-old Bellingham man accused of committing a racially motivated hate crime inside the Bellingham Walmart made his first court appearance this week

Whatcom Sheriff Renews Plea for Tips in 2018 Disappearance of Custer Man

Nearly eight years after a Custer man vanished from his home in the early morning hours of November 16, 2018, the Whatcom County Sheriff's Office is again

Nighttime I-5 Closures South of Bellingham Continue Through Thursday Morning

Drivers heading northbound on Interstate 5 into Bellingham this week should expect delays and lane reductions during overnight hours through Thursday morni

Sedro-Woolley Police Arrest Woman in $1 Million Elder Fraud Scheme

A 27-year-old woman is in custody at the Skagit County Jail after Sedro-Woolley Police arrested her last week in connection with a multi-state fraud operat

County Executive Sidhu to Present Recommended Budget to Whatcom Council Tuesday

Whatcom County Executive Satpal Sidhu introduced his recommended biennium budget to the Whatcom County Council on Tuesday, September 15. Residents who want

What You Put Down the Drain Can Damage Your Septic System

If your home in Whatcom County relies on a septic system, what goes down your drain matters more than most people realize. Whatcom County Public Works is r

Whatcom Water Week 2026 Runs Through September 20 With Free Events Countywide

Whatcom Water Week is in full swing, with free and family-friendly events happening across the county through Sunday, September 20. Now in its annual Septe

WWU Fall Quarter 2026 Kicks Off With Convocation, Info Fair, and First Night Out

Western Washington University is launching fall quarter 2026 with a packed lineup of signature events over the next several weeks, as thousands of new and

September 14, 2026

Ferndale's Art Haven Spotlights Two Bellingham Artists With Distinct Visions

Walk into the It's About Time Cultural Arts Center in downtown Ferndale and the first thing you notice is the density of it: handmade jewelry fills the sto

Your Guide to Visiting Sucia Island Marine State Park From Bellingham

Sucia Island Marine State Park sits at the northern edge of the San Juan Islands, about 2.5 nautical miles north of Orcas Island and roughly 25 miles west

Whatcom County Sheriff Remembers Deputy Matt Herzog

The Whatcom County Sheriff's Office marked a moment of remembrance this week with a simple, direct tribute to one of its own: "Deputy Matt Herzog. Gon

September 13, 2026

Crash Involving Sheriff's Vehicle Closes Enterprise Road Near Ferndale Saturday

A crash involving a Whatcom County Sheriff's Office vehicle closed a section of Enterprise Road near Ferndale for several hours on Saturday afternoon, Sept

Shop the Food Co-op Sept. 19 and Support the Bellingham Public Library

Here is an easy way to support the Bellingham Public Library without attending a gala or writing a check: show up to the Bellingham Community Food Co-op on

FEMA Awards Over $2 Million to Upgrade Lake Whatcom Reservoir for Earthquake Safety

A water reservoir serving communities around Lake Whatcom is set for a significant upgrade after the Federal Emergency Management Agency approved more than

Larrabee State Park Closes Most Areas Sept. 16 as Chuckanut Drive Stays Open

If you have been planning a drive down Chuckanut Drive this fall or a camping trip to Larrabee State Park, there is important timing to know before you go.

Whatcom County Sheriff Honors Women Officers on National Police Women's Day

The Whatcom County Sheriff's Office marked National Police Women's Day on September 13 by recognizing the women who serve throughout the agency, from patro

September 12, 2026

New Amtrak Cascades Airo Fleet Launches September 30, Bringing Better Seats and Wi-Fi

Passengers on the Amtrak Cascades route through Bellingham will see a significant upgrade to their travel experience starting September 30, 2026, when the

Bellingham Lifts Recreational Fire Ban as Rain Reduces Fire Risk

The City of Bellingham lifted its ban on recreational fires within city limits effective 5 p.m. on Friday, September 11, 2026. The decision, announced by B

Bellingham Warns Permit Applicants of AI-Powered Email Scam Targeting Residents

The City of Bellingham is warning residents who have recently applied for building or development permits about an uptick in scam emails demanding payment

Bellingham Schools Meal Balance Notifications Begin Wednesday Sept. 16

Families with students in the Bellingham Public Schools district will begin receiving meal balance notifications starting Wednesday, September 16, 2026. Th

Downtown Bellingham Paid Parking Zones Expanding Starting September 14

More blocks in downtown Bellingham will transition to metered parking beginning the week of September 14, 2026, the City of Bellingham announced. The chang

Alleged Mongols President Arrested for Birch Bay Shootout, Faces Assault Charges

A third suspect has been arrested in connection with a Labor Day weekend shootout between rival motorcycle clubs outside a restaurant in Birch Bay. Court r

Whatcom County Seeks Public Input on Critical Areas Ordinance Update

Whatcom County is launching a comprehensive update to its Critical Areas Ordinance, the set of land use regulations that governs development on properties

Whatcom County Prep Football Week 2: Squalicum Falls to Anacortes, Blaine Hosts Meadowdale

Week 2 of the high school football season brought a full slate of games across Whatcom County on Friday and Saturday, September 12, with results ranging fr

September 11, 2026

Alm Road Near Highway 9 Closing Daily September 14-18 for Bridge Repairs

Drivers using Alm Road in rural Whatcom County will need to plan for daytime closures next week. Whatcom County Public Works announced it will close Alm Ro

Bellingham College Fair Set for October 8 at Sehome High School

High school students across Bellingham and Whatcom County have a free, low-pressure chance to explore their post-secondary options this fall. The Bellingha

Bellingham Residents Asked to Nominate and Vote for City's First Official Bird

Bellingham is on the verge of doing something no Washington city has done quite like this before: letting its residents choose an official bird by popular

Lynden Music Festival Returns October 7-11, Celebrating Its Founder's Finnish Musical Roots

The Lynden Music Festival returns for another fall run from October 7 through 11, filling downtown Lynden's cafes, restaurants, pubs, and other venues with

Acme Man Charged With Felony After Jumping Into Nooksack River to Flee Police

An Acme man is facing a felony charge and multiple misdemeanors after police say he led officers on a chase, abandoned his van on the Nooksack River bridge

Run with the Chums 5K Returns Saturday to Birch Bay With Kids Obstacle Course

Salmon season is in full swing in Whatcom County, and this Saturday a beloved annual 5K is bringing the community together at Birch Bay to celebrate the fi

Washington State Approves 22.2% Health Insurance Rate Hike for 2027 Exchange Plans

Residents of Whatcom County who buy individual health insurance through Washington State's insurance exchange are facing another substantial premium increa

Whatcom Chief Ferry Leaves for Dry Dock Saturday, Limiting Lummi Island Service Until October

Lummi Island residents and anyone who regularly uses the Whatcom Chief ferry need to act quickly. The ferry is departing for its annual dry dock maintenanc

Whatcom County Drops to Stage 1 Burn Ban, Allowing Recreational Fires Starting Friday

Whatcom County residents can light campfires again starting Friday morning. The Whatcom County Fire Marshal's Office announced it is downgrading the county

Whatcom Water Week Runs September 12-20 With Free Events Across the County

Starting Saturday, September 12, Whatcom County kicks off a nine-day celebration of local water resources with Whatcom Water Week, running through Septembe

September 10, 2026

Arne Hanna Aquatic Center Closed for Equipment Repairs, Lessons Canceled

The Arne Hanna Aquatic Center in Bellingham is temporarily closed due to an unexpected equipment failure, the City of Bellingham announced on September 9,

Bellingham City Council to Consider Kratom Sales Ban at Monday Meeting

Bellingham is poised to become the next Washington city to ban the sale of kratom after the city mayor introduced an ordinance that will go before the Bell

Bellingham Schools Issues Safety Reminders for Middle Schoolers at Civic Stadium

The Bellingham School District has issued a set of safety reminders directed at middle school students and their families who plan to attend events at Civi

Court Records Detail Birch Bay Drive Shooting Between Rival Motorcycle Clubs

Court documents filed in Whatcom County Superior Court provide new details about a shooting incident on Birch Bay Drive on the evening of Sunday, September

Border Patrol Apprehends Three Near Lynden, Removal Proceedings Underway

U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Blaine Sector apprehended three Mexican nationals found to be illegally present in the United States near Lynden,

Man Arrested for Suspected Hate Crime After Racial Threats at Bellingham Walmart

A 51-year-old Bellingham man is in custody at the Whatcom County Jail after being accused of committing a racially-motivated hate crime inside a Bellingham

Blaine Peace Arch to Host Cross-Border 9/11 Ceremony on the 25th Anniversary

Canadians and Americans will gather Friday at the Peace Arch on the Blaine border to mark the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

Run with the Chums This Saturday Features Eight Conservation Booths

The 14th Annual Run with the Chums returns to Whatcom County this Saturday, September 12, and organizers want participants to know there is plenty to explo

September 9, 2026

Five Bellingham Bars and Restaurants Announce September and October Closures

September is shaping up to be a painful month for Bellingham's dining and bar scene, with at least five established businesses announcing they will close t

Larrabee State Park Campground Closing September 15 for Major Water System Overhaul

Washington's oldest state park is about to get its most significant infrastructure upgrade in years. Larrabee State Park, located along Chuckanut Bay south

Loomis Trail Road at Portal Way Closes Wednesday for BNSF Railroad Repairs

Drivers traveling through the Ferndale area should plan for a five-hour road closure Wednesday, September 9, as BNSF Railway makes repairs at the railroad

Lummi Island Ferry Holds Final Q3 Punch Card Sale and Exchange Wednesday

Lummi Island Ferry riders have one more chance to buy or exchange multi-ride punch cards for the third quarter of 2026. The Whatcom County Ferry Division w

Luna Fire Reaches 34 Percent Containment as Whatcom County Wildfires Continue Improving

Wildfire containment is improving across Whatcom County and the broader state of Washington as of Tuesday, September 8, with the Luna fire west of Ross Lak

Whatcom County Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee Meets Wednesday Evening

Whatcom County's Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Committee holds its next public meeting on Wednesday, September 9, from 6 to 8 p.m., giving residents a chance

Whatcom County Council Pilots New Meeting Format Starting September 15

Whatcom County residents who attend or follow County Council meetings will notice significant changes beginning Tuesday, September 15, when the council lau

September 8, 2026

Washington Fish and Wildlife Denies Petition to Restore Controversial Spring Bear Hunt

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has denied two petitions to reinstate the state's spring black bear hunt, a controversial season that was cancel

September 7, 2026

Motorcycle Gang Shooting Near Birch Bay Drive Leaves One Injured, Several in Custody

The Whatcom County Sheriff's Office is investigating a shooting that erupted Sunday evening along Birch Bay Drive, a residential corridor in the Birch Bay

September 6, 2026

Bellingham Experience Photo Contest Returns October 2 for Final Round of 2026

Photographers across Whatcom County have one more chance to show off their best shots of the region this year. The Bellingham Experience, a community touri

Canyon Lake Park Trail Renamed for Whatcom Land Trust Founder Rand Jack

A beloved trail in the Whatcom County backcountry now carries the name of one of the people most responsible for the fact that it exists as protected open

September 5, 2026

Bellingham Parks Tours Future Bakerview Meadows Park Site With King Mountain Neighbors

Bellingham Parks and Recreation took neighbors on a walking tour of the future Bakerview Meadows Park this week, giving King Mountain residents their first

Bellewood Farms Apple U-Pick Season Opens Saturday Through Late October

Fall is arriving in Whatcom County, and apple season is officially underway. Bellewood Farms and Distillery, a 62-acre working farm north of Bellingham, ki

Bellingham School District Issues Bus Rider Reminders as New School Year Begins

The Bellingham School District has released transportation reminders for eligible bus riders as the 2026-27 school year gets underway, asking families to r

Bellingham Schools Remind Families About Walking and Biking Safety for the New Year

With the 2026-27 school year now underway, the Bellingham School District is reminding families who walk or bike to school about key safety practices as ch

Lummi Nation Housing Authority Wins $7.5 Million HUD Grant to Build 20 New Homes

The Lummi Nation Housing Authority has been awarded a $7.5 million federal grant to help build 20 homes for low-income tribal families on the southern end

Whatcom County Family Support Program Faces Cuts After State Reduces Funding by 10 Percent

A statewide support program for families raising children with developmental disabilities will survive a funding threat but emerge with a smaller budget, l

Lane Closures Coming to I-5, Chuckanut Drive, and Highway 9 After Labor Day

The Labor Day holiday is giving Whatcom County drivers a brief break from construction delays, but road crews return to work next week with several project

Federal Way Man Gets 9-Year Sentence in Fentanyl Ring Tied to Lummi Nation Overdose Crisis

A 22-year-old Federal Way man who played a trusted role in a multi-state fentanyl trafficking organization linked to a fatal overdose crisis on the Lummi N

North Bellingham Lane Closure Begins Wednesday on Meridian for Sewer Lift Station Work

Drivers on Meridian Street in north Bellingham should expect lane restrictions starting next week as city crews begin construction on the Tremont Lift Stat

Whatcom County Executive Proposes Cutting 35 Jobs in New Biennium Budget Plan

Whatcom County Executive Satpal Sidhu presented his budget recommendations for the 2027-28 biennium to the Whatcom County Council on Tuesday, September 1,

Whatcom County Offices Close Monday for Labor Day; Ferry Runs Holiday Schedule

Whatcom County government offices will be closed on Monday, September 7, in observance of Labor Day, and the Lummi Island ferry will operate on a reduced h

Meet the Whatcom County Deputy Who Has Led Search and Rescue Since Age 10

Deputy Jordan Andersen of the Whatcom County Sheriff's Office knew two things about his future from the time he was ten years old: he wanted to work in law

WWU Graduate's Viral Grandmother Caregiving Account Earns Today Show Feature

Grace Yockey, a 2023 graduate of Western Washington University, has built a following of more than 20,000 people on Instagram by sharing her life as a full

September 4, 2026

Bellingham Library Hosts Democracy Workshops in September on Civics and River Rights

The Bellingham Public Library is launching a fall series of civic engagement workshops starting the week of September 9, inviting residents to explore ques

Blaine Man Arrested for DUI Vehicular Assault After Cyclist Struck on Birch Bay Lynden Road

A 56-year-old Blaine man was arrested early Thursday morning, September 3, after his vehicle struck a bicyclist on Birch Bay Lynden Road near Custer, sendi

Border Patrol Agents Apprehend Guatemalan National Near Lynden

U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Blaine Sector apprehended a Guatemalan citizen found to be in the country without legal authorization near Lynden

Car Fire and Power Outage Hit Ferndale After I-5 Crash on Barrett Road

A crash near Interstate 5 in Ferndale on Thursday afternoon, September 3, set off a chain of events that left more than 1,300 Puget Sound Energy customers

Mt. Baker Hill Climb on Sept. 13 Will Close Highway 542 to General Traffic

One of Whatcom County's most iconic annual cycling events returns on Sunday, September 13, when 450 riders line up for the Mt. Baker Hill Climb. The popu

Volunteers Help Bring Washington's Native Olympia Oyster Back to Whatcom County

A small but mighty shellfish is making a comeback in the waters off Whatcom County, and local volunteers are playing a central role in the effort. The What

Port of Bellingham Approves Final Cleanup of Former Georgia-Pacific Pulp Mill Site

The Port of Bellingham Board of Commissioners voted unanimously on September 1 to move forward with the final phase of cleanup at the former Georgia-Pacifi

Salmonella Outbreak Tied to Broccoli Sprouts Has Sickened 3 Whatcom County Residents

Three Whatcom County residents have become ill as part of a Salmonella Bovismorbificans outbreak linked to broccoli sprouts produced by Evergreen Fresh Spr

Whatcom County Executive Proposes Budget Cutting 35 Positions and New Revenue Measures

Whatcom County Executive Satpal Sidhu transmitted his recommended budget for the 2027-2028 biennium to the County Council on September 1, setting up months

September 3, 2026

Former Bellingham Employees Ask Supreme Court to Review COVID Vaccine Mandate Case

A group of former City of Bellingham employees and contractors is asking the United States Supreme Court to take up their lawsuit challenging the COVID-19

Bellingham Fire Department Responded to 2,057 Calls in August

The Bellingham Fire Department logged 2,057 calls for service in August 2026, keeping crews busy across all four of their response categories throughout th

Power Outage Hits More Than 2,700 Bellingham Homes and Businesses Wednesday

A power outage struck a large section of Bellingham on Wednesday afternoon, September 2, knocking out electricity to more than 2,700 homes and businesses a

Border Patrol Makes Two Apprehensions Near Lynden and Port Angeles

U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Blaine Sector made two separate immigration enforcement apprehensions in recent days, including a vehicle pursuit

Two Lummi Island Ferry Parking Lots Closing September 8 Through 11

Whatcom County Public Works will temporarily close two parking lots serving the Lummi Island Ferry beginning September 8, with both lots expected to reopen

Sudden Valley Plans Herbicide Treatment for Invasive Waterlilies Near Bellingham's Drinking Water

The invasive fragrant waterlilies blanketing Lake Louise in Sudden Valley are spreading again, and the community's homeowners association has approved a he

The Way Station Offers Bellingham's Homeless Population One-Stop Services

A collaborative facility called the Way Station is providing centralized services to people experiencing homelessness in Whatcom County, bringing together

WECU Launches New WWU Debit Card to Benefit Western Washington University

Western Washington University and WECU, the Bellingham-based credit union, are launching a new WWU-branded debit card that will generate ongoing financial

Whatcom County Invites Residents to Budget Open House on September 30

Whatcom County is inviting residents to a public open house on September 30 to learn about what is coming in the 2027 and 2028 county budgets, ask question

Whatcom SAR Deputies Find Missing Senior Safe on Orcas Island After 10-Mile Search

Whatcom County Sheriff's deputies and volunteers from Summit to Sound Search and Rescue located a missing vulnerable senior man safe on Orcas Island on Tue

September 2, 2026

Fall Storm Brings 40 mph Gusts, Rain, and Thunderstorms to Bellingham This Week

A significant weather system is moving through western Washington this week, and residents across Whatcom County should prepare for several days of unsettl

BPD K9 Unit Celebrates National Police K9 Day With Longest Record in Washington

Every evening at 7 p.m., four Bellingham Police Department K9 teams clock in for a shift that most officers would find demanding: patrolling streets throug

Northwest Indian College Buys Legoe Bay Property on Lummi Island for New Educational Center

Northwest Indian College has purchased a waterfront property on Lummi Island that will become the Legoe Bay Educational Center, a permanent facility for te

Bellingham Studies Boosting Padden Creek Flows as Drier Summers Stress Salmon Habitat

Padden Creek has been barely a trickle since early July. Even at its confluence with Connelly Creek in Bellingham's Happy Valley neighborhood, one of the p

14th Annual Run with the Chums 5K Returns September 12 in Whatcom County

Dog owners across Whatcom County have a date to circle on their calendars. The 14th Annual Run with the Chums 5K Fun Run is set for September 12, and on-le

White House Border Czar Tom Homan Visits Blaine Sector to Discuss Northern Border Operations

White House Border Czar Tom Homan made a visit to the U.S. Border Patrol Blaine Sector as part of a stop that also included the Spokane Sector, meeting wit

Free First Friday at Whatcom Museum on September 4 Focuses on Water and Waterways

The Whatcom Museum is hosting its monthly Free First Friday event on September 4, and this edition is built around a single theme: water. Titled "Shar

September 1, 2026

Bellingham Residents Cut Down Flock License Plate Cameras in Growing Trend

Two automated license plate recognition cameras at a Bellingham Home Depot were cut down this summer by an anonymous resident, part of a rapidly spreading

Bellingham Public Schools Kicks Off the 2026-27 School Year Tuesday

Tuesday, September 1 marks the first day of school for the 2026-27 academic year for students in the Bellingham School District, sending thousands of child

Bellingham Woman Gets 10-Month Sentence for Taking Son to Panama Without Father's Permission

A Bellingham woman will spend 10 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to unlawful use of a passport, following an investigation that revealed she

Hatchery Chinook Salmon Are Back in Bellingham Bay and Whatcom Creek This Fall

Hatchery chinook salmon are returning to Bellingham Bay and lower Whatcom Creek, with fishery managers forecasting a run of more than 7,000 fish this year.

Ferndale City Council to Vote on 0.1% Public Safety Sales Tax on September 7

Ferndale residents could soon see a small but significant change to their sales tax bill. The Ferndale City Council is expected to vote Monday, September 7

Ferndale Crews Close Roundabout Legs Tuesday Morning for Pavement Marking Work

Ferndale drivers should expect delays near two city roundabouts on Tuesday, September 1, as Public Works crews add pavement markings. The work is scheduled

Lynden School District Welcomes Students Back for the 2026-27 School Year

Students across the Lynden School District returned to their classrooms Tuesday for the first day of the 2026-27 school year, with all six schools opening

Man Jumps Into Nooksack River After Abandoning Vehicle on Slater Road Bridge

A dramatic police pursuit ended on the bridge over the Nooksack River on Slater Road Monday afternoon when a driver who refused to yield to a Lummi Nation

Bellingham Police Searching for Person Last Seen at Meridian High School

Bellingham police and community members are looking for a missing person who was last seen on August 31, 2026 at Meridian High School, according to a repor

Blaine's Historic Plover Ferry Has Just Three Rides Left This Season

If you have been meaning to ride the historic Plover ferry across the waters of Blaine Harbor, the window is closing fast. Only three operating days remain

Whatcom County Launches $7 Million Kids First Fund to Expand Childcare Access

Whatcom County is rolling out a major new financial aid program to help low-income families afford childcare, with roughly $7 million committed in the firs

Whatcom County Urges Residents to Protect Waterways as Fall Rains Approach

As summer fades and the first autumn rains prepare to sweep across Whatcom County, local water quality officials are sounding a familiar but urgent message

August 31, 2026

Bellingham Musicians Carry Dolly Parton's Country Legacy Into a New Generation

Dolly Parton died on August 25 at age 80. Across Whatcom County and the broader North Sound region, the ripples of her influence are visible in ways that s

August 30, 2026

Lynden Music Festival Returns October 7-11 for Its 16th Year

For the sixteenth consecutive fall, the small city of Lynden will fill with live music across five days, as the Lynden Music Festival returns October 7 thr

Missing Person Reported in Bellingham Has Been Located, Authorities Confirm

A missing person case out of Bellingham was resolved on Friday, August 29, 2026, after Whatcom News confirmed the individual had been located. The case was

August 29, 2026

Bellingham Has Been the Alaska Marine Highway's Southern Hub Since 1989

Every Friday morning, the Alaska Marine Highway System ferry arrives at the Port of Bellingham's cruise terminal in Fairhaven, drops off travelers who just

Bellingham's Beats on the Bay Moves Final Show Ashore Over Safety Concerns

One of Bellingham's most popular summer events is ending its 2026 run with a change of venue. The Community Boating Center announced Thursday, August 27, t

Bellingham Firefighter Earns Boat Certification After Career in Alaska Commercial Fishing

Bellingham Fire Department has a new certified boat operator, and he came to the job with more saltwater experience than most. Charlie McCullough officiall

Free First Friday at Whatcom Museum on September 4 Centers on Water and Local Waterways

The first Friday of September brings one of Bellingham's most anticipated free community events, and this month's edition has a theme that hits close to ho

Bellingham Raises Land Use Permit Fees 37 Percent Starting October 1, First Hike Since 2007

If you are planning a home addition, a new development project, or any work in Bellingham that requires a land use permit, your costs are about to go up. T

Bellingham Man Arrested After Making Shooting Threats Targeting Whatcom Community College

A 26-year-old Bellingham man is in custody after making threats to shoot people at Whatcom Community College, police said Friday. The threats were first re

New Bellingham Rental Protections Take Effect September 7, Including Inspection and Notice Updates

Renters and landlords in Bellingham will see significant changes to local housing rules starting September 7, when a package of new protections approved by

Bellingham Families Must Complete Annual Skyward School Forms by September 11

With the 2026-27 school year underway, Bellingham Public Schools is asking all families to complete their annual Skyward forms by Thursday, September 11. T

Bellingham Traverse Multi-Sport Relay Race Returns Saturday, Bringing Trail and Road Impacts

The Bellingham Traverse returns this Saturday, August 29, bringing a multi-sport relay race through the trails and roads of Whatcom County for another year

Boater Sewage Pollution Can Close Beaches and Shut Down Oyster Harvests in Whatcom County

One boat. That is all it takes to trigger a beach closure or shut down oyster harvesting operations in Whatcom County's marine waters. Whatcom County Publi

Border Patrol Arrests Man Near Bellingham With Multiple Prior DUI Convictions

U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Blaine Sector have arrested a Mexican national with a documented history of driving under the influence, driving

Whatcom County at Stage 2 Burn Ban as Ptarmigan Fire Burns Near Ross Lake

Whatcom County remains under an active Stage 2 burn ban and Very High fire danger ratings as a wildfire burns in the remote eastern reaches of the county n

Aging Whatcom PUD Water Main Near Ferndale Faces Emergency Replacement After Widespread Deterioration Found

Whatcom County and Public Utility District No. 1 of Whatcom County have declared an emergency to replace a failing water transmission main along Douglas Ro

Whatcom READS Kicks Off 2026-27 Season With Leif Enger Novel and Writing Contest

Whatcom County's beloved community reading program has officially launched its 2026-2027 season, and this year's selection is a work of literary fiction th

August 28, 2026

Bellingham Library Hosts Free Music Together Classes for Young Children September 4

The Bellingham Public Library is hosting two free Music Together sessions at the Central Library on Friday, September 4, giving families with young childre

What to Do This Weekend in Bellingham: Comedy, Wiffleball, Hot Rods, and Dahlias

Whatcom County's late-August weekend lineup is packed with options, from a standup comedy night in the Cordata neighborhood to a charity wiffleball tournam

Downtown Bellingham First Fridays Continue Through December with Monthly Events

Downtown Bellingham's popular First Friday art walk series returns on September 4, kicking off the final stretch of 2026 gatherings that will carry the tra

Washington Ecology Issues 35 Violations After Fatal Longview Paper Mill Tank Explosion

The Washington State Department of Ecology has issued an administrative notice to Nippon Dynawave Packaging detailing 35 environmental violations stemming

Lummi Island Ferry Back in Service After Coast Guard Inspection Delay Causes Outage

The Whatcom Chief ferry resumed regular service to Lummi Island at 1 p.m. Thursday, August 27, after passing a required U.S. Coast Guard safety inspection.

Whatcom County Court Education Day Offers Public Access to Local Justice System

Whatcom County is opening the doors of its Superior Court to the public this Friday, August 28, for Court Education Day, a free event running from 1 p.m. t

Whatcom Water Week Returns September 12 to 20 with Free Family Events in Bellingham

Bellingham and Whatcom County are celebrating local water resources with a nine-day run of free, family-friendly events from September 12 through 20. The C

August 27, 2026

Recount Confirms Shepard Advances in 42nd District Senate Race by Four Votes

A two-day hand recount of the 42nd Legislative District State Senate primary has ended with the same result as the original machine count: Michael Alvarez

Bellingham Man Arrested After Child Suffers Serious Injuries in Suspected DUI Crash

A 28-year-old Bellingham man is in custody at the Whatcom County Jail following a late-night crash that left a child with serious injuries. Deputies from t

Your Guide to Dog-Friendly Adventures Across Whatcom County

International Dog Day might come once a year, but in Whatcom County, the trails, beaches, paddling spots, and patios that welcome four-legged visitors are

Where to Safely Drop Off Hazardous Waste in Whatcom County

Moving into a new home in Whatcom County can mean inheriting more than just square footage and a yard. Previous owners sometimes leave behind old paint can

Whatcom Chief Ferry Resumes Wednesday, Shut Down Thursday for Coast Guard Inspection

The Whatcom Chief ferry resumed limited service on Wednesday afternoon, August 26, after an unexpected mid-day suspension left Lummi Island residents and v

August 26, 2026

Bellingham Lowers Speed Limits to 20 mph on Residential and Downtown Streets

Drivers in Bellingham will need to ease off the accelerator starting this week. The City of Bellingham began installing new 20 mph speed limit signs on res

Bellingham Man Gets 10-Year Prison Term for 2023 Walmart Parking Lot Shooting

A man who fired multiple shots at another person in a north Bellingham parking lot in December 2023 has been sentenced to 10 years in prison. Jesus Monreal

Tiny Radio Tags on Bumblebees Are Turning Bellingham's Nooksack Trails Into a Research Grid

If you have walked the Nooksack River trails in Bellingham recently and noticed small devices on poles, some with solar panels attached to gray power boxes

Bellingham Library Mourns Dolly Parton, a Champion of Children's Literacy

The Bellingham Public Library joined institutions and communities across the country Wednesday in mourning the death of Dolly Parton, describing her not on

Your Late-Summer Guide to Whatcom County Parks and Green Spaces

Summer in Whatcom County still has a week or more left to offer, and the region's parks are as good a reason as any to get outside before the season turns.

August 25, 2026

Crews Doing Follow-Up Stream Work Near Little Squalicum Estuary in Bellingham

Residents visiting the Little Squalicum off-leash dog area or the Little Squalicum Pier in north Bellingham may notice crews working in the creek nearby th

Whatcom Sheriff Asks Public to Help Find Vulnerable Adult Missing Since July 25

The Whatcom County Sheriff's Office is asking for the public's help in locating James D. Harris, a 55-year-old man who has been missing since July 25 and w

New Encampments Appear Across Bellingham After King Mountain Camp Cleared

Less than a month after the City of Bellingham cleared its largest homeless encampment in the King Mountain neighborhood, new encampments are being reporte

Western Washington University Named Among Money's Best Colleges for 2026

Western Washington University has earned a spot on Money magazine's Best Colleges in America list for 2026, recognized for what the publication calls a str

Whatcom County Assessor's Office Lobby Closed After Water and Electrical Damage

The Whatcom County Assessor's Office lobby has closed indefinitely following unexpected water damage and an electrical issue discovered at the office, coun

Whatcom County Invites Residents to Second Annual Open House on September 30

Whatcom County will hold its second annual Open House on Tuesday, September 30, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Whatcom County Courthouse in downtown Be

Smoke and Fire Danger Remain Elevated Across Whatcom County This Week

Wildfire smoke is expected to move into the Bellingham area through Tuesday, August 25, while fire danger remains at Very High across both the lowlands and

WTA Bus Fares Double to $2 Starting September 1 in Whatcom County

Riding the bus around Whatcom County is getting more expensive starting next week. Beginning September 1, the Whatcom Transportation Authority is raising i

August 23, 2026

Bellingham City Council Unanimously Upholds Woods at Viewcrest Approval

The Bellingham City Council voted unanimously on August 21, 2026, to uphold a Hearing Examiner's decision approving the preliminary plat and associated per

Fairhaven Events This Fall: Cinema, Circus and a Fresh Hop Party

Fairhaven, the historic village neighborhood tucked into the southern edge of Bellingham, closes out summer and kicks off fall with a trio of events worth

Toxic Algae at Unsafe Levels Detected in Toad Lake Near Bellingham

Health officials have issued a surface water advisory for Toad Lake in Whatcom County after testing detected microcystin, a liver-affecting toxin produced

August 22, 2026

Bellingham Residents Can Weigh In Monday on Proposed Affordable Housing Zoning Exemption

Bellingham residents have a chance to speak directly to the City Council on Monday about a proposed ordinance that could reshape how affordable housing is

Bellingham Library Seeks Artists to Design Children and Teen Spaces in Phase 2 Renovation

The City of Bellingham is looking for artists to help shape what children and teenagers experience when they walk into the renovated Bellingham Central Lib

Then and Now: How Bellingham Fire Department's Paramedic Service Has Changed in 50 Years

A black-and-white photograph published in the Bellingham Herald on July 26, 1974, shows Firefighter Gary Hedberg leaning into a demonstration model ambulan

BPD SWAT Team Trains With Coast Guard on Bellingham Bay, Orcas Crash the Session

The Bellingham Police Department's SWAT team took their drills to the water this week, teaming up with members of the U.S. Coast Guard for a joint training

Fire Weather Watch Issued for Eastern Whatcom County Through Saturday Evening

The National Weather Service has issued a fire weather watch for eastern Whatcom County, covering the west slopes of the North Cascades through Saturday ev

Lummi Island Ferry Punch Card Sale Scheduled for This Saturday, August 22

Lummi Island Ferry riders have one more punch card sale opportunity this weekend. The Whatcom County Ferry Division is holding a multi-ride punch card sale

Lynden Schools Opens August 31 as Superintendent VanderYacht Welcomes Back Families

Lynden School District Superintendent David VanderYacht is welcoming students, families, and staff ahead of the first day of the 2026-2027 school year on A

City of Bellingham Finishes Meridian Street Sewer Upgrade, Road Repaving Still Ahead

The City of Bellingham has completed the Meridian Sewer Improvement Project, wrapping up a significant underground infrastructure upgrade along one of the

RSVP Cyclists Roll Through Whatcom County This Weekend on Seattle-to-Vancouver Ride

Drivers across Whatcom and Skagit counties should expect slower conditions on a handful of roads this weekend as hundreds of cyclists make their way north

Toxic Algae Found at Unsafe Levels in Toad Lake Near Bellingham

Whatcom County health officials are warning residents to avoid contact with algae at Toad Lake after recent testing found microcystins, a toxin produced by

Wildfire Smoke From BC Pushes Air Quality to Unhealthy Levels in Parts of Whatcom County

Smoke drifting south from British Columbia wildfires pushed air quality to unhealthy levels in portions of Whatcom County on Friday, with the worst conditi

Your Guide to Whatcom County Farmers Markets for the Rest of Summer 2026

Summer is winding down, but the markets are still going. Across Whatcom County, several farmers markets remain active through the coming weeks, offering fr

August 21, 2026

Bellingham Crews Return to Little Squalicum Creek for Post-Restoration Habitat Work

Residents walking their dogs at the Little Squalicum off-leash area or visiting the Little Squalicum Pier may notice construction activity in the creek nea

Invasive Emerald Ash Borer Found in Washington State for the First Time

State and federal officials have confirmed the first detection of emerald ash borer in Washington state, a milestone that conservationists and forestry exp

Noisy Waters Mural Festival Names 2026 Winners Who Will Paint Bellingham Murals Next Year

The fourth annual Noisy Waters Mural Festival has concluded in Bellingham with three artists selected to return in 2027 and create permanent large-scale mu

Dreyer's Recalls Outshine Fruit Bars Nationwide Over Possible Glass Contamination

Dreyer's Grand Ice Cream has issued a voluntary nationwide recall of select flavors of Outshine Fruit Bars after receiving consumer reports of glass found

Whatcom County Unanimously Confirms James Marks as New Planning Director

Whatcom County has a new director for its Planning and Development Services department after the County Council voted unanimously to confirm James Marks, t

Whatcom County Renames Canyon Lake Trail for Land Trust Founder Rand Jack

A 3.5-mile trail winding through one of Whatcom County's most beloved community forests now carries a name that reflects the life's work of the man who hel

Wildfires Burning Near Ross Lake as Rain and Thunderstorms Expected This Weekend

Two active wildfires are burning in the far eastern reaches of Whatcom County near Ross Lake, while a county-wide Stage 2 burn ban remains in place and a s

Whatcom Transit Overhauls Bus Routes Serving Western Washington University

Whatcom Transportation Authority has restructured the bus routes serving Western Washington University this summer, replacing a tangle of six overlapping c

WWU Chemistry Team Publishes Peer-Reviewed Paper on Lab Safety Bottle Adapter Invention

A research team at Western Washington University has reached a significant milestone in their effort to make chemistry labs safer: after a year of addition

August 20, 2026

Bellingham Man Sentenced to Nearly Four Years for Downtown Fentanyl and Meth Operation

A Bellingham man convicted of running a drug dealing operation out of a recreational vehicle parked in downtown Bellingham was sentenced this week to just

Bellingham Library Summer Reading Ends This Month With Local Business Prizes

Families with school-age children still have time to participate in the Bellingham Public Library's Summer Reading program before it closes at the end of A

Bellingham Public Schools Joins National Lawsuit Against Social Media Giants Over Student Harm

Bellingham Public Schools has joined a growing nationwide legal action against the parent companies behind some of the world's most widely used social medi

Your Guide to a Summer Day Trip to Birch Bay, Just North of Bellingham

Birch Bay is one of Whatcom County's most appealing summer destinations, and at roughly 20 miles north of Bellingham, it is close enough for a spontaneous

Blaine Man Arrested for False Reporting After Stabbing Story Falls Apart Under Investigation

A 26-year-old Blaine man was arrested and booked into the Whatcom County Jail on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, on a false reporting charge after a multi-agen

Beyond Salmon: Researchers Warn of Broader Freshwater Species Loss in Northwest Washington

Salmon get most of the attention when it comes to Northwest Washington's struggling waterways, but scientists and conservationists are increasingly focused

Bellingham Approves $40 Million Contract to Upgrade Post Point Wastewater Plant Emissions

The Bellingham City Council has authorized a major upgrade to the air pollution control systems at the Post Point Wastewater Treatment Plant in Fairhaven,

14th Annual Run with the Chums 5K Returns September 12 in Whatcom County

Whatcom County Public Works is inviting residents to lace up their sneakers and join the 14th Annual Run with the Chums 5K Fun Run on Saturday, September 1

Armed Suspect Taken Into Custody in Sedro-Woolley After SWAT Response on Highway 20

A suspect is in custody following a tense multi-agency law enforcement response in Sedro-Woolley on Wednesday afternoon, August 19, 2026, according to the

Washington Unemployment Falls for First Time Since 2024, With Local Data Due August 25

Washington State added approximately 21,100 seasonally adjusted jobs in July 2026, pushing the state's unemployment rate down from 5.2 percent in June to 5

Burn Ban Remains in Effect as Fire Danger Stays Very High Across Whatcom County

A Stage 2 burn ban covering all of Whatcom County remained in effect as of Wednesday, August 19, 2026, with no outdoor burning of any kind permitted. The b

Western Washington University Raises Record $25.5 Million in Fiscal Year 2026

Western Washington University in Bellingham has closed its most successful fundraising year in the institution's 133-year history, raising a record $25.5 m

August 19, 2026

42nd District Senate Race Heads to Hand Recount After Four-Vote Primary Margin

A four-vote gap between two Democratic candidates in the race for Legislative District 42 State Senator has triggered a mandatory hand recount in Whatcom C

Bellingham Named One of America's Most Beautiful College Towns by House Beautiful

Bellingham has landed on a national list of the most beautiful college towns in America, with House Beautiful magazine naming the city among 11 destination

Florida Police Detective Among Three Arrested in Sedro-Woolley Elder Fraud Case

Three people, including an active-duty police detective from Florida, have been arrested in connection with a fraud scheme that investigators say drained m

New Free Bike Route Guides Riders Through Bellingham's Indigenous Art and Heritage

A new self-guided cycling route is inviting Bellingham residents and visitors to experience the city's Indigenous cultural heritage from the seat of a bicy

Where to Safely Dispose of Used Motor Oil and Auto Waste in Whatcom County

Used motor oil and other petroleum products are among the most common pollutants that end up in local waterways, and Whatcom County Public Works is remindi

Whatcom Chief Ferry Out of Service Wednesday Morning for Planned Maintenance

Lummi Island ferry riders will need to plan ahead on Wednesday, August 19: the Whatcom Chief will be out of service from 10:10 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for a sche

WWU Vikings Volleyball Ranked 20th Nationally Ahead of Challenging Season Opener

Western Washington University's volleyball team is heading into the 2026-27 season with a national ranking for the first time in recent memory, landing at

August 18, 2026

Four-Vote Margin in 42nd District Senate Race Triggers Hand Recount in Whatcom County

A Whatcom County state Senate primary race is heading into a hand recount after just four votes separated two Democratic candidates for second place on the

Power Outage Hits Over 2,700 Bellingham Homes and Businesses Monday Night

A power outage struck the Bellingham area Monday evening, August 17, knocking out electricity to more than 2,700 homes and businesses and leaving much of a

Birch Bay Man Pleads Not Guilty to Attempted Murder in Domestic Shooting That Injured Child

A 62-year-old Birch Bay man has pleaded not guilty to two counts of attempted murder after allegedly shooting two people, including a 2-year-old child, at

Canadian Visits to Whatcom County Fall Again in July After Brief Spring Recovery

After a hopeful stretch in the spring, Canadian visitor traffic to Whatcom County dropped sharply again in July, according to new data from Western Washing

Lake Louise Road and Lake Whatcom Boulevard to Close Daytime August 24 Through 26

Drivers who regularly use Lake Louise Road or Lake Whatcom Boulevard should plan ahead for a series of daytime closures next week. Whatcom County Public Wo

Target Shooting Banned Across Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest Amid Fire Danger

The U.S. Forest Service has temporarily banned all recreational target shooting within the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, citing very high fire da

Northwest Washington Fair Runs Through August 22 With Free and Discounted Days

The Northwest Washington Fair is happening right now in Lynden, and if you have not made it out yet, there are still several days left to enjoy one of the

Public Invited to Watch Whatcom County Election Certification This Morning

If you have ever wondered what happens after the polls close and the ballots are counted, Whatcom County is offering a rare chance to see it for yourself.

Whatcom County Traffic Deaths Have Surged. Could Better Transit Help Reverse That?

Between 2021 and 2025, impairment played a role in 62 percent of traffic fatalities in Whatcom County. That is 50 lives lost over five years to crashes inv

August 17, 2026

BPL Children's Craft Fair Returns to Bellis Fair Mall This Friday

Families looking for a low-cost outing this week have a fun option landing at Bellis Fair Mall on Friday evening: the Bellingham Public Library Children's

WWU Research Institute Calls for Stronger Cross-Border Governance of Columbia River Basin

A new policy report from Western Washington University argues that the Columbia River Basin, a massive watershed spanning seven U.S. states and a significa

August 16, 2026

Border Patrol and ICE Arrest Mexican National in Whatcom County Joint Operation

A Mexican citizen who was illegally present in the United States was arrested in Whatcom County during a coordinated operation between U.S. Border Patrol a

Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie Forest Bans Target Shooting Through October Due to Fire Danger

The Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest has issued a blanket prohibition on target shooting across all forest lands, roads, and trails within its boundary

Floating Saunas, New Spirits Bar and Rebranded Kayak Tours: What Is New in Bellingham

Bellingham's commercial landscape has been quietly reshaping itself this summer, with a new craft spirits tasting room, a one-of-a-kind floating sauna expe

August 15, 2026

Bellingham Firefighters Train at Western Washington University Campus

Over the past several weeks, crews from the Bellingham Fire Department have been conducting training exercises at Western Washington University, taking adv

Bellingham Residents Debate Parking Minimums, Walkability and Who the City Is For

A debate is playing out in Bellingham over the city's recent decision to permanently eliminate minimum parking requirements for new developments, and the c

Bellingham Officers Surprise 8-Year-Old Leen With Birthday Scooter Delivery

A birthday wish became a real memory for a Bellingham girl named Leen this week, thanks to two Bellingham Police Department officers who went out of their

Bellingham to Smoke-Test Sewer Lines in Lettered Streets and Cornwall Park Next Week

Residents in the Lettered Streets and Cornwall Park neighborhoods of Bellingham may notice smoke rising from unexpected places next week. The city's Public

Single-Lane Traffic Begins Monday on Vista Drive in Ferndale for Utility Work

Drivers traveling on Vista Drive in Ferndale should expect slowdowns starting Monday, August 17, when a stretch of the road narrows to a single lane for ut

State Campaign Finance Watchdog Opens Formal Probe Into Let's Go Washington

The Washington State Public Disclosure Commission has opened a formal investigation into Let's Go Washington, the conservative initiative campaign group th

Red Flag Warning, Burn Ban and Wildfire Smoke Hit Whatcom County This Weekend

Whatcom County residents are navigating a combination of fire weather hazards this weekend, with a red flag warning, a countywide burn ban, and elevated wi

August 14, 2026

Border Patrol Arrests Man With Criminal Record Near Lynden

U.S. Border Patrol agents from the Blaine Sector arrested a Mexican national illegally present in the United States near Lynden, Washington, according to a

Border Patrol Joins Birch Bay for National Night Out Community Event

U.S. Border Patrol agents from the Blaine Sector joined neighbors, local agencies, and community organizers in Birch Bay on Tuesday evening for this year's

September Is Eat Local Month in Washington: How to Take Part in Whatcom County

September is Eat Local Month across Washington State, and Whatcom County is one of the best places in the Pacific Northwest to fully embrace it. From a spr

Free Kids Performance at Maritime Heritage Park This Friday Features Hula Hoops and Kona Ice

Families in Bellingham have a free outdoor activity to look forward to this Friday, August 14, when the Lunchtime at Maritime series returns to Maritime He

Mayor Lund Hosts North Bellingham Open House Next Wednesday at Larrabee Lager

Mayor Kim Lund and her leadership team will be at Larrabee Lager Co. in Cordata on Wednesday, August 19, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. for the final Ask Us Anything

Red Flag Warning and Air Quality Alert in Effect for Whatcom County Through the Weekend

Wildfire smoke from eastern Washington and British Columbia is filtering into Whatcom County, and officials are urging residents, particularly those in the

Whatcom County Courthouse Opens to Public for Free Court Education Day on August 28

Whatcom County residents will have a rare opportunity to step inside the courthouse, watch hearings in progress, and talk directly with judges and court st

Whatcom County Hosts Series of Overdose Awareness Events Throughout August

Whatcom County will mark International Overdose Awareness Day this year with a series of community events spread across three dates in August, culminating

Your Weekend Guide: NW Washington Fair, Mural Festival, Author Talks and Live Music

If you are looking for things to do in and around Bellingham this weekend, you have more options than you can fit into two days. The Northwest Washington F

August 13, 2026

20-Vote Margin Separates Candidates in District 42 Senate Race as Auditor Reviews 393 Challenged Ballots

The race for Washington's 42nd Legislative District State Senate seat remains one of the closest contests in the state, with Democrat Michael Shepard leadi

Elderly Man Dies in Early Morning House Fire on North Forest Street

An 80-year-old Bellingham man died Wednesday morning after fire broke out in the basement of a four-unit residential building in the city's South Hill neig

Bellingham Clears King Mountain Encampment as Crews Begin Logging to Deter Return

Cleanup operations are underway at the site of a longstanding encampment in Bellingham's King Mountain neighborhood after residents received notices from t

Lummi Nation Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Brutal Domestic Assault

A 49-year-old Lummi Nation man with a decades-long history of domestic violence convictions was sentenced to five years in federal prison Wednesday followi

Whatcom County Approves $7 Million Child Care Subsidy Program for Low-Income Families

Whatcom County families struggling with the cost of child care could see direct financial relief starting in early 2027, after the County Council voted Tue

WWU Expands Guaranteed Admission to All Washington High School Students for Fall 2027

Western Washington University has opened applications for Fall 2027 and, for the first time, extended its Guaranteed Admission program to eligible students

August 12, 2026

American White Pelicans Are Flocking to Padilla Bay in Unprecedented Numbers

Something unusual has been happening in Padilla Bay, the broad tidal estuary tucked between the Samish Island peninsula and the Skagit flats on the south e

Bellingham Permanently Removes Minimum Parking Requirements for New Developments

Bellingham has officially and permanently eliminated minimum parking requirements for new development, the Bellingham City Council voting 5-1 Monday night,

Bellingham City Council Advances New Renter Protections Including Inspection Reforms

The Bellingham City Council voted unanimously Monday night, August 10, to advance a set of changes aimed at strengthening rental housing inspections and cl

Bellingham Man Arrested for Sexual Assault Inside Tent Near Stuart Road

A 41-year-old Bellingham man is in custody after being accused of sexually assaulting a person inside a tent near West Stuart Road. The suspect was arreste

Birch Bay Man Charged With Attempted Murder After Shooting Adult and Toddler

A 63-year-old Birch Bay man is in custody at the Whatcom County Jail following a Monday evening shooting that injured two people, including a 2-year-old ch

Border Patrol Arrests Fugitive Near Lynden Wanted for Rape of Minor

A Blaine Sector Border Patrol agent arrested a citizen of El Salvador who was illegally present in the United States near Lynden, Washington, according to

Convicted Sex Offender Arrested After Admitting to Relationship With a Minor

A convicted sex offender is back in custody at the Whatcom County Jail after admitting to investigators that he had been in a romantic relationship with so

City Removes Elizabeth Park Trees to Stop Elm Beetle Spread

The City of Bellingham began emergency tree removals at Elizabeth Park on Monday, August 11, cutting down three elm trees along Elizabeth Street after insp

Good Time Girls Bellinghistory Tours Celebrates 15 Years With New Events

One of Bellingham's most beloved local institutions is marking a major milestone this year. Good Time Girls, the guided history tour company formally known

Where to Drop Off Hazardous Waste Before Your Next Move in Whatcom County

Whether you are clearing out a garage, ending a lease, or downsizing to a new home, boxes and bins full of old paint cans, rechargeable batteries, pesticid

Lummi Island Ferry Out of Service August 19 for Terminal Inspection and Maintenance

Passengers planning to travel to or from Lummi Island on Wednesday, August 19 should plan around a nearly five-hour service gap. The Whatcom Chief will be

Adoptable Puppies Take Over Bellingham City Hall Rotunda This Thursday

If your Thursday morning plans could use some improvement, Bellingham City Hall has a solution. The Whatcom Humane Society is bringing a group of adoptable

August 11, 2026

Bellingham Bells Advance to WCL North Division Championship

The Bellingham Bells punched their ticket to the West Coast League North Division Championship on Sunday, August 10, with a dominant 17-4 victory over the

Federal Grant Revives Bellingham Police Department Motorcycle Unit

The Bellingham Police Department is set to bring back its motorcycle traffic unit after receiving more than $44,000 in federal funding from the U.S. Depart

Blaine Sector Agents Arrest Guatemalan National Near Burlington

A U.S. Border Patrol agent assigned to the Blaine Sector arrested a Guatemalan citizen found illegally present in the United States near Burlington, Washin

Border 2 and Luna Fires Grow in East Whatcom County With Zero Containment

Two wildfires burning in the remote North Cascades on the eastern edge of Whatcom County continued to grow over the weekend, with neither fire showing any

How Bellingham Became a Jazz Hub for the Pacific Northwest

On any given week in Bellingham, you can hear live jazz at a library, a hotel lobby, a converted fire station, or a craft brewery. The network of venues, e

Thornton Street in Ferndale Closes Wednesday for Road Repairs

Drivers in Ferndale should plan for a brief detour on Wednesday, August 12, as the City of Ferndale Public Works Department closes a section of Thornton St

Whatcom County Council Votes Today on Key Step for New Jail Design

The Whatcom County Council is scheduled to take a significant vote Tuesday, August 11, that could clear the way for the design team working on the new What

Blaine Alumnus Makes $10.5 Million Gift to Western Washington University

Western Washington University has received the largest planned gift in its history: a $10.5 million commitment from Peter and Judith Hallson that will crea

August 10, 2026

Luna and Border 2 Fires Keep Burning in North Cascades With Zero Containment

Two lightning-caused wildfires continue to burn through steep and remote terrain inside the North Cascades National Park Service Complex east of Bellingham

August 9, 2026

Beats on the Bay Returns to Bellingham Bay Starting August 11

One of Bellingham's most beloved summer traditions is back. The Beats on the Bay concert series launches its 2026 run on Monday, August 11, with music from

Whatcom County 2026 Primary Results: Senate Race Too Close to Call, Full Breakdown

Whatcom County's August 4, 2026 primary election produced clear frontrunners in most races and one razor-thin result in the 42nd Legislative District State

August 8, 2026

Nine-Vote Margin in 42nd District Senate Race Points to Likely Recount in Whatcom County

The closest race in Whatcom County's 2026 primary election is almost certainly heading to a mandatory hand recount. Democrat Michael Shepard leads fellow D

Bellingham's Community Streets Program Completes Group A and Launches New Safety Studies

The City of Bellingham's Community Streets Program has wrapped up its Group A traffic calming installations, completing safety improvements in six neighbor

Bellingham Man Faces Hate Crime Charges After Racial Slurs and Assault on Business Owner

A Bellingham man is facing hate crime and assault charges after Bellingham Police say he directed racial slurs at a business owner and his guests and then

Your Guide to Direct Flights From Bellingham International Airport This Summer

Bellingham International Airport is one of the Pacific Northwest's best-kept travel secrets, and this summer its direct flight options make it worth a seri

Bellingham Issues Complete Outdoor Burn Ban Amid High Fire Danger Conditions

Fire Marshal Shawn Linville has ordered a complete prohibition on all outdoor burning within Bellingham city limits, effective 2:00 PM on Thursday, August

Border Patrol Arrests Nicaraguan National With Violent Criminal Record Near Lynden

Agents from the U.S. Border Patrol's Blaine Sector arrested a Nicaraguan citizen who was in the United States illegally near Lynden, Washington, according

Bellingham Police Train on New Device to End High-Speed Pursuits Safely

The Bellingham Police Department has added a new tool to its pursuit intervention arsenal: the Grappler Police Bumper, a device designed to allow officers

Agencies Begin Summer Cleanup Phase at North Bellingham Encampment Near Stuart Road

A coordinated effort by private property owners and multiple government agencies is underway to clear and remediate a large unauthorized encampment on priv

Bag Checks Now Required at the Northwest Washington Fair Starting Thursday

Fairgoers headed to the Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden this year should plan for a new security step at the gates. Fair officials announced Friday, Au

Whatcom County Executive Signs Updated Comprehensive Plan Guiding Growth Through 2045

Whatcom County Executive Satpal Sidhu signed the official update to the county's Comprehensive Plan on August 7, 2026, with County Council Chair Kaylee Gal

August 7, 2026

Bellingham Issues Complete Outdoor Burn Ban Amid High Fire Danger

Fire Marshal Shawn Linville has ordered a complete outdoor burn ban for the City of Bellingham, effective 2:00 p.m. Thursday, August 6, citing dry weather

Bellingham Police Join Neighborhoods for National Night Out Events

Bellingham Police Department officers fanned out across multiple city neighborhoods on the evening of August 6 for National Night Out, an annual community-

Bellingham Translator Arrested After Stealing Over $9,400 From Employer

A 39-year-old Bellingham man who worked as a translator has been arrested on suspicion of stealing more than $9,400 from his employer by using access to th

Free First Friday Brings Juggler, Museum Activities and Kids Concert to Bellingham

Bellingham's Free First Friday returns on August 7 with a packed lineup of no-cost family activities spread across downtown and the waterfront, including t

Intertribal Canoe Journey Brings Indigenous Heritage Revival to Pacific Northwest Waters

More than 100 canoes from Indigenous nations across Alaska, Washington, Oregon, and British Columbia landed on the shores of the Nisqually Tribe's homeland

City of Lynden Seeks Volunteer Civil Service Commissioner Applications

The City of Lynden is accepting applications from residents interested in serving as a volunteer Civil Service Commissioner, with a letter of interest dead

Blaine's Railway Cafe to Close August 31 as Owners Retire and Head East

A distinctive Blaine dining spot is serving its final weeks of burritos and paninis. The Railway Cafe announced on August 4 that it will close permanently

Now Is the Best Time to Visit Tennant Lake in Ferndale Before Fall Closure

If you have not yet visited Tennant Lake in Ferndale this summer, August is one of the best windows to do it. The boardwalk trail through the marsh is open

Whatcom County Helps Fund 64-Unit Affordable Housing Development

A 64-unit affordable housing development in Whatcom County has received financial support through the county's Economic Development Investment program, off

Whatcom County Offers Free Hazardous Waste Drop-Off This Saturday

Whatcom County residents have a free and easy option this Saturday, August 9, to safely dispose of old paint, cleaning chemicals, garden pesticides, and ot

August 6, 2026

Bellingham Library Hosts Free Outdoor K-Pop Celebration for Kids on August 12

The Bellingham Public Library is bringing a free outdoor K-Pop celebration to Lee Memorial Park on Wednesday, August 12, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The

Birch Bay Waterslide Injury Lawsuit Settles for $4 Million, Property Now Listed for Sale

A man who suffered severe leg injuries at a Birch Bay waterslide in August 2023 has reached a $4 million settlement, resolving a lawsuit filed in Whatcom C

Marshall Judy Appointed Mayor of Nooksack After Kevin Hester's Death in June

The City of Nooksack has a new mayor. The city council appointed former councilmember Marshall Judy to the position at their July 20 meeting, filling the s

Historic 1944 Plover Ferry Offers Public Tours of Drayton Harbor Through September 6

A piece of living Whatcom County history is back on the water this summer. The Plover Ferry, a 17-passenger vessel built in 1944 and beautifully restored,

New Signs at Post Point Explain How Bellingham Treats Its Wastewater

The next time you walk the waterfront trail near Post Point in Bellingham, look for three new interpretive signs installed in July 2026 just outside the Po

Two Bats Test Positive for Rabies in Whatcom County This Week

Whatcom County Health and Community Services is urging residents to avoid all contact with wild bats after two bats tested positive for rabies this week. O

Annual Run with the Chums 5K Returns to Birch Bay on September 12

The 14th Annual Run with the Chums, a free family 5K fun run celebrating Pacific salmon and water health, returns to Birch Bay on Saturday, September 12, 2

SBA Disaster Loans Now Available for Whatcom County Businesses Hit by March Freeze

Small businesses, nonprofits, and other organizations in Whatcom County that suffered losses during the freeze and frost event of March 9 through 11, 2026

Wildfire Smoke Reaches Hazardous Levels in Parts of Whatcom County

Wildfire smoke is spreading across more of Whatcom County, and air quality conditions are worsening as the week progresses. The communities of Everson, Ken

Whatcom County August 4 Primary Results Available Through August 18 Certification

Unofficial results from the Whatcom County August 4, 2026 Primary and Special Election are now available online. Ballot counting will continue, and results

Whatcom County Selling Two Flood-Zone Homes and a Barn in Deming and Everson

Whatcom County is accepting sealed bids for the purchase and removal of three surplus structures acquired through flood mitigation work: two residential ho

Whatcom County Jail Design Revisited to Add Courtroom and Reentry Services

Whatcom County Council members are pushing to add a second courtroom and reentry services back into plans for the new Whatcom County Jail, after both featu

Smoke, Heat, and a Stage 2 Burn Ban: Whatcom County's Hazard Briefing for August 5

Hot days and smoky skies are defining the first week of August in Whatcom County. A Heat Advisory is in effect through 10 p.m. Thursday, August 6, and a co

Bellingham City Council to Hear Appeal on Woods at Viewcrest Subdivision Monday

The Bellingham City Council has scheduled a special meeting on Monday, August 10, to hear an appeal challenging the proposed Woods at Viewcrest subdivision

August 5, 2026

Air Quality Alert and Heat Advisory in Effect for Whatcom County Through Thursday

Multiple wildfires burning across Washington, Oregon, and British Columbia are pushing smoke into Whatcom County this week, coinciding with a stretch of un

Bellingham Launches Online Map Showing Rental Inspection Results Citywide

The City of Bellingham has launched a new online dashboard that allows anyone to look up rental properties across the city and see whether they are registe

Border Patrol Arrests Four Near Lynden, One Had Child Cruelty Conviction

U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Blaine Sector arrested four Mexican nationals found illegally present in the United States near Lynden, Washingto

Former WWU Employee Sues University Over Denied Disability Accommodation

A former Western Washington University employee has filed a lawsuit against the school alleging it failed to provide reasonable accommodation for her disab

I-5 Ramp Closures and SR 544 Work to Impact Whatcom County Drivers This Week

Drivers in Whatcom County should expect overnight lane and ramp closures on several major roads this week as WSDOT crews carry out pavement preservation wo

Whatcom Auditor Seeks Volunteers to Write Opposition Statements for November Ballot

The Whatcom County Auditor's Office is looking for registered voters willing to write "against" statements for several local ballot measures that will appe

Whatcom County August 4 Primary Results: Key Races and What Comes Next

Preliminary results from the August 4, 2026 primary election began posting after 8 p.m. Tuesday as the Whatcom County Auditor's Office tallied ballots from

August 4, 2026

Bellingham Bells Clinch Playoff Berth, Will Host Opening Round Games This Weekend

The Bellingham Bells are heading to the playoffs. The team swept the Victoria HarbourCats over the weekend to clinch the second seed in the North Division

Salish Landing Park Cleanup Reaches Major Milestone at Former Bellingham Landfill

City of Bellingham staff, Port of Bellingham officials, and U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen joined the project contractor and other partners on July 31 for a hard-ha

Whatcom Auditor Warns Voters About Unofficial Ballot Collection Sites Ahead of Primary Deadline

Whatcom County Auditor Henning Henthorn is urging voters to return their primary election ballots only to official drop box locations before the 8:00 p.m.

Last Chip Seal Week of 2026 Hits Five Whatcom County Roads

Whatcom County Public Works is wrapping up its 2026 chip seal season this week, with five rural roads scheduled for surface treatment starting Monday, Augu

Smoke Moving Into Whatcom County as Stage 2 Burn Ban Continues and Heat Builds

Wildfire smoke is moving into Whatcom County this week as a high-pressure system settles over western Washington, bringing warm temperatures and northeaste

August 3, 2026

Whidbey Telecom Trial Over Lummi Burial Site Disturbance Set for October in Federal Court

A federal jury trial is scheduled to begin on October 4 in a case that has drawn widespread attention from tribal nations, archaeologists, and infrastructu

August 2, 2026

Abbotsford International Airshow Starts Friday, Expect Aircraft Over North Whatcom County

The skies over north Whatcom County are about to get busy. The 2026 Abbotsford International Airshow opens Friday, August 7, and runs through Sunday, Augus

Blaine Sector Hosts Annual Border Patrol Marine Program Conference

Federal law enforcement agencies from both sides of the 49th parallel gathered in Blaine last week for the annual US Border Patrol Marine Program Conferenc

Summer Heat Raises Ground-Level Ozone Risk in Whatcom County This August

As August temperatures climb across northwest Washington, residents in Whatcom County face an increased risk of ground-level ozone, a harmful air pollutant

Late July Testing Finds Toxic Algae Below Limits in Lake Whatcom

Water samples collected from Lake Whatcom in late July came back clean for toxic algae, with all toxin levels falling below method detection limits, accord

Noisy Waters Mural Festival Returns to Bellingham August 14 Through 16

Bellingham's most hands-on public art event is back this month. The Noisy Waters Mural Festival runs August 14 through 16, bringing eight finalists togethe

August 1, 2026

Big Rock Garden Park Gets Long-Overdue Fence Restoration Through September

One of Bellingham's most distinctive outdoor destinations is getting a visible upgrade this summer. The Bellingham Parks and Recreation department has laun

How to Wash Your Car Without Polluting Whatcom County Waterways

Summer weekends in Whatcom County often mean dirty cars, and this weekend is no exception. But before you drag out the hose and bucket, Whatcom County Publ

Hannegan Road to See Single-Lane Delays August 5 and 6 for Crack Sealing

Drivers using Hannegan Road in Whatcom County should plan for brief delays on Wednesday, August 5 and Thursday, August 6, as county Public Works crews perf

Lake Padden Watercraft Rules Reminder as Summer Recreation Peaks

With summer in full swing, the City of Bellingham is reminding visitors to Lake Padden Regional Park that the lake carries strict watercraft speed and safe

Lummi Island Ferry Goes to Dry Dock September 12, Here Is What Riders Need to Know

Residents of Lummi Island and anyone planning to visit the island this fall have a critical planning window approaching. The Whatcom Chief, the only vehicl

Your Guide to a Summer Day Trip to Lummi Island This August

Lummi Island is one of Whatcom County's most distinctive destinations, and this summer offers a trio of reasons to make the short ferry crossing from Goose

Lynden Heritage Museum Needs $100,000 to Stay Open in Its 50th Anniversary Year

The Lynden Heritage Museum, a cornerstone of Whatcom County's cultural memory for half a century, is fighting to keep its doors open. The museum has launch

Sudden Valley's Fire Station 22 Reopens After Two-Year Closure From Frozen Pipe Damage

Residents of Sudden Valley, the large residential community on the western shore of Lake Whatcom southeast of Bellingham, can now count on a fire station i

Where to Drop Your Ballot in Whatcom County for the August 4 Primary

The August 4, 2026 primary election is days away, and Whatcom County voters who have not yet returned their ballots have multiple drop box locations availa

Thunderstorms and Fire Danger: Whatcom County's Weekend Weather Outlook

Whatcom County heads into the first weekend of August under a Stage 2 burn ban, with forecasters warning of thunderstorm potential on Saturday that could b

July 31, 2026

ACLU Files Federal Claim Over Family Held in Extreme Heat at Blaine Border Facility

The ACLU of Washington filed a federal civil rights claim Wednesday, July 29, on behalf of a family it says was held for nearly a month in "deplorable

Pickford Film Center Launches Free Outdoor Cinema Series in Downtown Bellingham

Downtown Bellingham gets an outdoor movie experience this summer with the launch of the Bay Street Outdoor Cinema, a free film series presented by the Pick

Free Bellingham Kids Fest Returns to Civic Stadium on Saturday August 1

Families across Whatcom County have a free day of activities waiting for them this Saturday at Civic Stadium, where Bellingham Parks and Recreation and Wes

Mayor Lund Goes Behind the Scenes on Bellingham's Firefighting Boat

Bellingham Mayor Kim Lund recently stepped aboard the Salish Star, the Bellingham Fire Department's marine vessel, for a firsthand look at how the city ext

North Cascades Border 2 Fire Doubles to 2,500 Acres as Okanogan Blazes Threaten Homes

A pair of wildfires burning in steep terrain near the northeast edge of Whatcom County have grown significantly over the past week, with the National Park

Whatcom County August 4 Primary Is Days Away: Where to Drop Your Ballot

The August 4 primary election is now just days away for Whatcom County voters, and residents who have not yet returned their ballots are running out of tim

Whatcom Sheriff Offers Up to $300 in Gift Cards for Surrendered Firearms

The Whatcom County Sheriff's Office has launched a new voluntary firearm turn-in program that offers residents gift cards in exchange for surrendering unwa

July 30, 2026

Bellewood Farms Continues Farmtunes Concert Series Every Friday Through August

Summer evenings in Whatcom County have a new soundtrack. Bellewood Farms and Distillery in Lynden is hosting its Farmtunes concert series every Friday thro

Bellingham Fire Department Now Accepting Applications for January 2027 Academy

The City of Bellingham is actively recruiting experienced firefighters and firefighter-paramedics for its January 2027 training academy, the Bellingham Fir

Downtown Ferndale Streets Close Friday for Block Party Running Through Sunday

Downtown Ferndale will close two key streets to vehicle traffic starting Friday, July 31, as the city hosts its annual block party through the weekend. The

Four Juveniles Arrested After Armed Robbery at Bellingham Regal Cinema Complex

Four juvenile boys were arrested Monday evening following an armed robbery at the Regal Cinema complex in Bellingham's Barkley Village neighborhood. Bellin

Missing Whatcom County Man with Stroke History Found Safe After Multi-Day Search

A missing person alert issued by the Whatcom County Sheriff's Office was resolved on Tuesday afternoon when the subject of the search, 61-year-old Adam B.

Mosquito Lake Road to Close Intermittently August 11 Through 13 for Bridge Inspection

Mosquito Lake Road in Whatcom County will face intermittent closures over three days next month as county and state crews conduct a routine safety inspecti

Nooksack River Summer Flows Have Fallen Up to 40 Percent, Threatening Salmon Survival

A new analysis published in the Salish Current warns that salmon in the Nooksack River watershed face an increasingly dire future unless leaders dramatical

Rebecca Steffenson Named to Lead Western Washington University's Peninsula Programs

Western Washington University has appointed Rebecca Steffenson as associate vice president for Western on the Peninsulas, the university announced July 29.

Whatcom County Chip Seal Work Hits Five Roads Starting August 3

Drivers in rural Whatcom County should plan for delays starting Monday, August 3, as the county's Public Works department begins the final week of its 2026

Whatcom County's 2026 Homelessness Snapshot Shows 840 People Counted, $13 Million Funding Gap

Whatcom County has released its 2026 Snapshot on Homelessness, an annual report that pulls together data from multiple sources to give the community a deta

Whatcom County Sets $5.7 Million Budget for New Lummi Island Ferry District

The Whatcom County Council voted 5-2 Tuesday night, July 28, to approve a $5.7 million initial operating budget for the newly created Lummi Island ferry di

July 29, 2026

Bellingham Expands Business Tax Credits to Downtown Core and Fairhaven

The Bellingham City Council voted unanimously to expand and strengthen the city's tax credit program for new businesses, extending eligibility to the downt

Bellingham City Council Weighs Allowing RVs and Tiny Homes in All Residential Zones

The Bellingham City Council took up a pair of affordable housing measures at its Monday, July 27 Committee of the Whole meeting, including an interim ordin

Kids Sell Handmade Crafts at Bellingham Library Fair This Friday

The Bellingham Public Library is hosting the first of two Children's Craft Fairs this Friday, July 31, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Lee Memorial Park, directl

Your Guide to the Best Brunch Spots in Bellingham

Whether you are chasing a waterfront view with your eggs Benedict or hunting down the fluffiest pancakes in Whatcom County, Bellingham has quietly built on

Washington Costco Shoppers Can Claim Share of $14 Million Email Settlement

Washington state residents who receive marketing emails from Costco may be eligible to submit a claim for compensation under a recently announced class act

Water Quality Advisory Issued for Lake Samish Private Drinking Water Systems

Whatcom County Health and Community Services issued a water quality advisory on Monday, July 28, for residents who draw drinking water directly from Lake S

Wastewater Discharge Near Lake Whatcom Contained Before Reaching the Lake

Whatcom County Health and Community Services confirmed Monday that a wastewater discharge discovered on the northwestern shore of Lake Whatcom near the Aga

Three Teens Hospitalized After Suspected DUI Rollover on Mount Baker Highway

Three teenagers were transported to a Bellingham hospital early Tuesday morning after a single-vehicle rollover crash on Mount Baker Highway near Deming. W

Whatcom County Sheriff to Participate in National Night Out at Birch Bay on August 4

The Whatcom County Sheriff's Office will participate in National Night Out on Tuesday, August 4, with a community stop planned at Birch Bay. The annual eve

Second Lawsuit Challenges Ballot Language on Washington Income Tax Repeal Initiative

A second legal challenge has been filed over the ballot language attached to Washington state's proposed initiative to repeal the new tax on high-income ea

WWU Urban Planning Professor Wins National Award for Washington Zoning Atlas

A Western Washington University professor of urban planning has received one of the field's top regional honors for her work on a statewide digital mapping

July 28, 2026

Bellingham Gas Prices Average $4.93 a Gallon After Sharp Rise This Week

Drivers in Bellingham and across Washington state are paying noticeably more at the pump this week, with prices climbing sharply due to a combination of ge

Border 2 and Luna Fires Grow in Whatcom County as Crews Defend Hozomeen Structures

Two lightning-sparked wildfires continue to burn and grow in the remote eastern reaches of Whatcom County, prompting active suppression efforts, trail and

Chip Seal Work Continues on Eight North Whatcom County Roads Through Thursday

Whatcom County Public Works crews are continuing chip seal work on a set of rural roads in northern Whatcom County this week, with lane delays and detours

FBI Joins BPD Hunt for Bellingham Fugitive Wanted on Felony DV Assault Warrant

The FBI's Seattle Field Office has joined the Bellingham Police Department in the search for a man who fled Washington state before he could be sentenced o

Lane Closures Coming to I-5 in Ferndale and Highway 9 for Repairs and Fish Passage Work

Road crews will be working on two major Whatcom County routes this week, with lane closures on northbound I-5 near Ferndale starting Monday night and ongoi

Lawsuit Challenges Ballot Language on Washington's Millionaire Tax Repeal Initiative

A lawsuit filed in Washington state is targeting the ballot language attached to a proposed initiative that would repeal the state's capital gains tax on h

National Night Out Is August 4 in Whatcom County, With Open Event at Birch Bay Beach Park

Every first Tuesday in August, neighborhoods across the country step outside for National Night Out, a community-building event that connects residents wit

State Funding Uncertainty Threatens Parent to Parent Disability Support Network in Whatcom County

A statewide peer support program that serves families of people with disabilities in every Washington county, including Whatcom, is facing an uncertain fut

New Remote Court Station in Maple Falls Lets East Whatcom Residents Attend Hearings Locally

East Whatcom County residents who need to appear in court, file paperwork, or meet legal deadlines no longer have to make the long drive to Bellingham for

Whatcom County Daily Briefing: Burn Ban Holds, Wildfires Active, Rain Expected Tuesday

Whatcom County's Stage 2 burn ban remains in effect through at least the coming days, while two lightning-sparked wildfires continue burning in the remote

Whatcom Water Week Kicks Off With a 5K Fun Run and Youth Smolt Sprint

Whatcom Water Week is getting underway in Whatcom County, and the festivities open with a 5K fun run designed to draw community members of all ages outdoor

July 27, 2026

Bellingham's Rent Software Ballot Measure Draws Criticism From Former State Lawmaker

A ballot measure that would ban landlords in Bellingham from using algorithmic rent-pricing software has qualified for the November ballot, and the Belling

BPD Seeks Help Finding Missing 79-Year-Old Navy Veteran in Bellingham

The Bellingham Police Department is asking the public to help locate James McCaleb, a 79-year-old man who left his residence at noon on Saturday, July 25,

ESA Rollback Threatens Salish Sea Orcas and Salmon, Local Experts Warn

The Trump administration finalized a rule change to the Endangered Species Act on July 14 that federal wildlife biologists and local conservation experts s

July 26, 2026

Blaine Border Patrol Joins National Night Out on August 4

Blaine Sector Border Patrol agents will step out of their uniforms and into the community on August 4, joining neighborhoods across the country for Nationa

Crash Near Ferndale Traps Two Under Live Power Lines, Knocks Out Power to 1,800 Addresses

A single-vehicle crash Saturday morning in rural Whatcom County left two people trapped inside a van pinned under live power lines, triggered an emergency

Your Summer Guide to Art and Culture in Bellingham and Whatcom County

You do not have to leave Whatcom County to spend a summer surrounded by world-class art. From massive outdoor sculptures to nationally touring museum exhib

July 25, 2026

From landlubber to racing crew: A first-timer's view of Bellingham Race Week

Bellingham Race Week wrapped up its 43rd year on the waters of Bellingham Bay this week, and for at least one crew member aboard the sailboat Absolutely, i

Border Patrol completes vehicle barrier near Sumas to block drive-through crossings

The U.S. Border Patrol's Blaine Sector has finished installing a new vehicle barrier near Sumas, Washington, a small community of roughly 1,200 residents t

Parts of Cornwall Memorial Park closing for years as Bellingham begins major reforestation

Sections of Bellingham's Cornwall Memorial Park will be fenced off and closed to the public for the next three to five years as the city undertakes a signi

Severance creator Dan Erickson, a WWU alum, begins filming season 3 this week

Dan Erickson, the Western Washington University alumnus who created and runs one of the most talked-about shows on television, is about to begin production

Blue-green algae blooms pose health risk at Whatcom County lakes this summer

Whatcom County public health officials are warning residents and visitors to watch for harmful algae blooms at local lakes and beaches this summer, as warm

More than 50 workers detained at Lynden packing facility since March in what advocates call first soft raid

More than 50 workers at a Lynden food processing facility have been detained by federal immigration agents since March 2026, with four additional arrests o

Lynden roundabout nearly done as one-lane work begins Monday night on E Badger Road

The roundabout under construction at the intersection of E Badger Road and Benson Road in Lynden is in its final stretch. The Washington State Department o

Stage 2 burn ban remains in Whatcom County as weekend showers bring some relief

A Stage 2 burn ban across unincorporated Whatcom County remains in effect as of Friday, July 24, 2026, with no end date announced, prohibiting all open bur

Whatcom Sheriff launches anonymous firearm exchange program with cash cards for residents

The Whatcom County Sheriff's Office has launched a new voluntary program that lets residents turn in unwanted firearms anonymously and receive cash cards i

WWU professor's new book reveals how the first week of college shapes graduation odds

A Western Washington University English professor has published a new book arguing that the habits students form in their very first days on campus are amo

July 24, 2026

Bellingham Library Children's Craft Fairs Return July 31 and August 21

Mark your calendar and gather some cash: the Bellingham Public Library's annual Children's Craft Fairs are back for summer 2026, giving local shoppers two

Ferndale opens grant applications for human services and economic development groups

The City of Ferndale has opened the application window for its 2026 Organizational Grant Program, offering funding to nonprofits and organizations that pro

Joseph Williams named director of WWU cybersecurity programs in Bellingham

Western Washington University has hired Joseph Williams as the new director of its Cybersecurity Programs, bringing a resume that spans Microsoft, the U.S.

EPA honors Lummi tribal wastewater plant with national recognition award

The Lummi Tribal Sewer and Water District received a national award Tuesday, July 21, from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recognizing improvement

Pioneer Days, York Yard Crawl and more fill Whatcom County this weekend

After a stretch of heat and smoky air, cooler temperatures and clean skies have returned to Whatcom County just in time for one of the busiest weekends of

Port of Bellingham selected for state industrial symbiosis program

The Port of Bellingham has been chosen as one of seven Washington communities to receive expert technical assistance aimed at developing an industrial symb

Secret Harbor School abuse lawsuits push toward trial after judge rejects delay

Lawsuits stemming from decades of alleged abuse at Secret Harbor School, a now-closed residential group home for boys on Cypress Island north of Anacortes,

Chip seal work hits eight Whatcom County roads starting July 27

Whatcom County Public Works has scheduled chip seal paving on eight roads beginning Monday, July 27, with work expected to continue through Thursday, July

Whatcom County holds public hearing July 28 on Lummi Island ferry tax rate

Whatcom County property owners will have a chance to weigh in on a new tax that will fund the Lummi Island ferry when the Whatcom County Council holds a pu

July 23, 2026

Harbor seal pup shot near Bellingham Airport dies after BB pellet found in brain

A harbor seal pup found with a head wound in the tidal flats near the Bellingham International Airport over the Fourth of July weekend has been euthanized

Winner of $8.2 million lottery ticket sold in Bellingham has come forward

The search for the winner of a multimillion-dollar lottery ticket sold in Bellingham is over. A spokesperson for Washington's Lottery confirmed that a pers

Sand sculptures, a car show and summer fun coming to Birch Bay in August

Birch Bay is gearing up for a pair of back-to-back community events on the first weekend of August 2026, giving families in Whatcom County two distinct rea

BPD records 250th DUI arrest of 2026 after 90 mph chase to Canadian border

A Bellingham Police Department officer on the evening of July 21, 2026, spotted a vehicle being driven recklessly at more than 90 miles per hour near the S

Whatcom County August 4 primary ballot deadline is days away

Whatcom County voters have less than two weeks to return their ballots for the August 4, 2026, Primary and Special Election. The Whatcom County Auditor's O

July 22, 2026

Blaine Sector Border Patrol agents help ICE arrest two men in Alaska

U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Blaine Sector recently traveled to Alaska to assist Immigration and Customs Enforcement in arresting two Tongan c

Bellingham man attempts triathlon world record to raise $500,000 for the food bank

A Bellingham real estate agent is attempting to break a world record in endurance athletics this Friday night to raise money for the Bellingham Food Bank,

Ferndale Pioneer Days celebration returns this weekend at Pioneer Park

Pioneer Days, one of Whatcom County's longest-running community celebrations, returns to Pioneer Park in Ferndale on Friday and Saturday, July 24 and 25, w

Downtown Ferndale streets close Saturday morning for Pioneer Days Grand Parade

Drivers heading into downtown Ferndale on Saturday morning, July 25, should expect road closures and congestion tied to the annual Old Settlers Pioneer Day

Hovander Park Fragrance Garden is in full bloom this summer in Ferndale

The Fragrance Garden at Hovander Homestead Park in Ferndale is at peak bloom right now, offering visitors a sensory experience that combines vibrant colors

Driver hits 110 mph fleeing Bellingham police, crashes near Blaine border crossing

A high-speed pursuit that started on Interstate 5 near Bellingham in the early hours of Tuesday, July 21, ended with a crash near the Peace Arch border cro

Man sentenced to 15 years for smuggling meth by jet ski through the Salish Sea

A 69-year-old man convicted of smuggling methamphetamine by jet ski through the waters of the Salish Sea between California and Vancouver Island has been s

Lynden City Park closed until noon Wednesday for tree removal work

Lynden's City Park is temporarily closed Wednesday morning, July 22, while crews complete a scheduled tree removal. The park is expected to reopen by noon,

Bellingham nonprofit pivots to trails advocacy with plans for county-wide network

A Bellingham nonprofit that was previously known for a school-based mental health program is reinventing itself as a regional trails advocacy organization,

Heat advisory and air quality alert in effect for Whatcom County through Wednesday

Whatcom County is under a heat advisory and an air quality alert through Wednesday evening, July 22, with conditions expected to ease overnight before a ro

Whatcom County unemployment drops to 4.1 percent in June despite job losses

Whatcom County's unemployment rate fell to 4.1 percent in June, down from 4.5 percent in May, according to data released by the Washington State Employment

Whatcom County voter registration deadline to update by mail or online is July 27

Whatcom County residents who need to register to vote or update their registration before the August 4 primary election have until Monday, July 27 to do so

July 21, 2026

Bellingham Plans Third Tiny Home Village in Irongate Neighborhood for 2027

The City of Bellingham announced on July 20 that it is partnering with local nonprofit HomesNOW! to open a new tiny house village in the Irongate neighborh

BPD Sends Unclaimed and Seized Property to Public Auction This Month

The Bellingham Police Department regularly transfers unclaimed and seized property to public auction, giving Whatcom County residents a chance to bid on ve

CERT Basic Training Opens for East Whatcom County Residents Starting August 5

Whatcom County residents who want to be better prepared when wildfire, flood, or another major disaster strikes their neighborhood now have a direct path t

Everett Man Pleads Not Guilty in July 4th Hit-and-Run That Killed Bellingham Woman

An Everett man has pleaded not guilty to vehicular homicide and related charges in connection with a July 4th hit-and-run crash in Sedro-Woolley that kille

Semi-Truck Rollover Closes Nooksack Road Monday Morning, Clips Power Pole

A semi-truck and trailer rolled off Nooksack Road on Monday morning, July 20, blocking both lanes of State Route 9 and triggering a power outage for a smal

Uber Returns to Bellingham Airport and Cruise Terminal After Four-Year Absence

Travelers flying in and out of Bellingham International Airport and passengers using the Bellingham Cruise Terminal gained a major new transportation optio

Whatcom County Chip Seal Work Targets 11 Roads Through July 23

Whatcom County Public Works is deep into its annual chip seal season, and drivers on rural county roads should expect significant delays through Thursday,

Heat Advisory and Air Quality Alert in Effect for Whatcom County Through Wednesday

Whatcom County is under both a heat advisory and an air quality alert through Wednesday evening, July 22, as a combination of Canadian wildfire smoke and r

What Whatcom County's Stage 2 Burn Ban Actually Allows and Prohibits

Whatcom County is under a Stage 2 burn ban as of July 17, and wildfire smoke from British Columbia is drifting into the region this week alongside a heat a

WWU Doctoral Student Studies How HIV Medications Damage Hearing

A second-year doctoral student of audiology at Western Washington University is spending her summer in Portland conducting NIH-funded research on how antir

July 20, 2026

Allegiant Airlines to Close Bellingham Crew Base, Displacing About 35 Flight Attendants

Allegiant Airlines will close its crew base at Bellingham International Airport on November 2, ending a roughly 18-year local presence that had made the ul

Where to Find Locally Made Ice Cream in Bellingham and Whatcom County

Summer in Whatcom County calls for a cold treat, and the good news is that locally made ice cream, gelato, and dairy desserts are never far away. From a Be

July 19, 2026

Bellingham Missing Person Last Seen Near Cove Road Saturday Morning

A person was reported missing out of Bellingham on Saturday, July 18, 2026, according to a brief alert published by Whatcom News . The individual was last

Your Guide to Summer in Bellingham and Whatcom County Right Now

Summer is fully here in Whatcom County, and the window for making the most of it is shorter than it ever feels. From the ferry crossing to Lummi Island to

Tour de Whatcom Sends 800 Cyclists Across County Roads Sunday

About 800 cyclists will be sharing roads across Whatcom County on Sunday, July 19, as the annual Tour de Whatcom makes its way through Bellingham, Sudden V

July 18, 2026

Bellingham Seeks Volunteers to Write Ballot Arguments on Three November Initiatives

Bellingham voters will face three citizen-initiated measures on the November 2026 general election ballot, and the city is now looking for residents willin

Lummi Island Ferry Offers Punch Card Sales and Exchanges This Saturday

Lummi Island ferry riders have a chance to purchase or exchange multi-ride punch cards this Saturday, July 18, 2026, at the island-side terminal. The Whatc

Three Active Fires Burning in North Cascades National Park Complex Near Whatcom County Border

Two new wildfires were discovered in the North Cascades National Park Service Complex this week following lightning storms, bringing the total number of ac

PeaceHealth Bellingham ER Adds Valet Parking as Construction Cuts More Spaces Monday

Patients and visitors heading to the emergency department at PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center in Bellingham will face fewer parking options starting M

Free 5K Fun Run Returns to Birch Bay on September 12

Registration is open for the 14th Annual Run with the Chums 5K Fun Run, a free, family-friendly event coming to Birch Bay on Saturday, September 12, 2026.

Tour de Whatcom Brings 800 Cyclists to County Roads Saturday

Drivers across Whatcom County should expect to share the road with roughly 800 cyclists on Saturday, July 18, 2026, as the annual Tour de Whatcom bicycle e

Whatcom County Hosts Third Justice Project Community Workshop Next Wednesday

Whatcom County is inviting residents to attend the third Community Engagement Workshop for the Justice Project on Wednesday, July 23, 2026, from 6:00 p.m.

July 17, 2026

BPD warns of scam calls falsely claiming loved ones are hospitalized

The Bellingham Police Department is warning residents about a disturbing new phone scam making the rounds in Whatcom County, in which callers pretend to be

Cyclospora parasite outbreak spreads nationally; Whatcom health officials offer guidance

A gastrointestinal illness caused by an intestinal parasite is spreading more widely than usual across the United States this summer, and Whatcom County He

Fairhaven Chicken Fest, Legally Blonde outdoor cinema and summer theater this weekend

Fairhaven is packed with reasons to get outside this weekend, with three distinct events converging on the historic village neighborhood on Saturday, July

Whatcom County corrections sergeant blends Marine service, jail training and disc golf

Sergeant Matt Gegner did not plan on a career in corrections when he graduated from Western Washington University with a degree in Earth Sciences. But with

Stage 2 burn ban takes effect across unincorporated Whatcom County starting Friday

Dry conditions and rising fire danger have prompted the Whatcom County Fire Marshal's Office to implement a Stage 2 burn ban across all unincorporated area

WWU grad Ladislao Quintanilla earns first-ever national urban planning student award

A recent graduate of Western Washington University has become the first student in the country to receive a new national honor from the leading consortium

July 16, 2026

Bellingham Bells Honor First Responders at Salute to Service Night

On a warm Saturday evening at Joe Martin Field, the Bellingham Bells turned their home game against the Port Angeles Lefties into something more than baseb

Bellingham Herald union members ratify new contract after strike

The newsroom that covers Whatcom County for the Bellingham Herald has a new contract, and it includes some of the strongest protections against artificial

Blaine Border Patrol Mourns Retired K9 Nefra, Credited in 24 Apprehensions

The U.S. Border Patrol Blaine Sector is mourning the loss of one of its most dedicated members. Retired K9 Nefra, who served the Blaine Sector from 2022 th

Ballot Measure - Levy Lid Lift - Vote November 3, 2026

The City of Lynden is asking voters to approve a levy lid lift on the November 3, 2026 General Election ballot. The measure, which has been posted on the c

Whatcom County Seeks New Members for Its Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee

Whatcom County is looking for residents who care about safe streets and want a direct hand in shaping them. The Whatcom County Bicycle and Pedestrian Advis

Chip Seal Work Scheduled: Road List for Week of July 20

Drivers across unincorporated Whatcom County should plan for delays starting Monday, July 20, as the county's annual chip seal program moves into its secon

Primary Ballots Are in the Mail for Whatcom County's August 4 Election

Ballots for the August 4, 2026 primary election arrived in Whatcom County mailboxes on Wednesday, July 15. If you have not yet received yours, it should ar

Whatcom County Escalates to a Stage 2 Burn Ban Starting Friday

Whatcom County is escalating its fire restrictions as dry summer conditions intensify across the region. Effective 8 a.m. on Friday, July 17, 2026, the exi

Summer Test Kitchen connects prize-winning playwrights with WWU Theatre students

Western Washington University is offering something rare this July: free, public readings of brand-new plays workshopped by professional playwrights, inclu

July 15, 2026

Bellingham increases fee rates for fast-charging EV stations

Drivers who use the City of Bellingham's fast-charging electric vehicle stations will soon pay more per kilowatt-hour after the Bellingham City Council vot

Kids Take Over Lee Memorial Park for the Library's Children's Craft Fair July 31

Young entrepreneurs across Bellingham will take over Lee Memorial Park on Friday, July 31, as the Bellingham Public Library hosts the first of two Children

Let it go brown: The changing landscape of NW summer water conservation

Water use in Bellingham climbs steeply every summer, and this year the stakes are higher than usual. Washington State has been under a statewide drought de

Volunteers Haul Eight Tons of Firework Debris Off Birch Bay Beaches

Hundreds of volunteers gave up part of their Fourth of July holiday weekend to haul firework debris off the beaches of Birch Bay, and the results were stag

‘Code Red’ issued for NW blood supply

Bloodworks Northwest has declared a Code Red for the regional blood supply, meaning demand is significantly outpacing donations and reserves have dropped t

Community picnic celebrating Lynden center’s 70th anniversary

The Christian Health Care Center in Lynden is marking a major milestone this month, and the community is invited to help celebrate. The center is hosting a

National cyclosporiasis outbreak source remains unidentified

Federal health officials are tracking a large multistate outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a gastrointestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospo

Way Station sees high demand for support services in first year

A downtown Bellingham facility designed to serve people experiencing homelessness has dramatically exceeded its first-year goals, according to an annual re

World Cup Final Days: Where to Watch in Bellingham

If you have been following the 2026 FIFA World Cup from Bellingham, the best is still ahead. With the tournament entering its final days, local watch parti

WWU student breaks 35-year-old Putnam Exam institutional record

A Western Washington University exchange student from Germany has shattered a 35-year-old institutional record on the most prestigious undergraduate mathem

Vikings cap historic 2025-26 season with national success, conference dominance and academic excellence

Western Washington University Athletics wrapped up one of the most accomplished seasons in department history during the 2025-26 academic year, finishing 1

July 14, 2026

Bellingham Seeks Applicants for New Landlord and Tenant Advisory Group

The City of Bellingham is accepting applications through Tuesday, July 15, for a new Landlord and Tenant Advisory Work Group that will help shape city rent

Circus performance in Ferndale

A circus performance is coming to Pioneer Park in Ferndale, Washington on Friday, July 17, with the show beginning at 7 p.m. The event offers a rare chance

Suspect arrested after Fisherman’s Memorial vandalized at Zuanich Point Park

A suspect is in custody after Bellingham's Fisherman's Memorial at Zuanich Point Park was vandalized in the early hours of Sunday, July 12. The Safe Return

Searchers Find Body of Missing BC Hiker Gursimran Singh in the Twin Sisters Range

A lengthy search for a missing British Columbia hiker ended in tragedy Monday, July 13, when searchers located the body of Gursimran Singh in the mountains

Advocacy group aiming to add more bike, pedestrian protections around Bellingham

A local advocacy group called Safe Streets for Bellingham has planted dozens of yellow yard signs across the city, specifically at locations where pedestri

Indigenous cultural center aims to immerse visitors in Coast Salish history, culture

A renaming ceremony at the park once known as Maritime Heritage Park marked a significant cultural moment in downtown Bellingham recently, as the site was

State’s trial against Albertsons underway for alleged role in opioid crisis

A major opioid trial with direct connections to Whatcom County got underway Monday, July 13, in King County Superior Court. Washington State Attorney Gener

Whatcom County Chip Seal Work Brings Delays to Rural Roads Through July 16

Whatcom County Public Works is in the middle of its 2026 chip seal season, and drivers on rural county roads should expect delays through Thursday, July 16

County Accepting Lodging Tax Tourism Promotion Grants Until September 4th

Whatcom County is now accepting applications for tourism promotion grants that will fund eligible tourism and cultural activities in 2027. The application

July 12, 2026

Whatcom County Sheriff and Fire District 21 Face Off in Battle of the Badges BBQ at Birch Bay, July 25

If you want to settle an important question this July, mark your calendar for Saturday, July 25: who has the better barbecue game, the Whatcom County Sheri

Searchers Recover Body of Bellingham Hiker Missing 17 Days in Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

The Whatcom County Sheriff's Office confirmed Saturday afternoon that searchers had recovered the body of Steven Dorsett, a 55-year-old Bellingham man who

Lake Whatcom, Zuanich Point, and Live Music: Your Guide to Summer in Bellingham This July

Summer in Bellingham arrives a little later than the calendar suggests, as any local will tell you, but by July it is fully here. The days are long, the wa

July 11, 2026

A $470,000 Project to Fix Iowa Street's Flooding Problem Starts Monday

Bellingham's Iowa Street has a flooding problem that city engineers have known about for years, and starting Monday, construction crews will finally begin

Lake Whatcom Triathlon Underway This Morning -- Slow Down for Athletes on Lakeside Roads

The annual Lake Whatcom Triathlon is underway this morning, with hundreds of athletes competing across the lake's clear water and the winding roads of the

Mount Baker Theatre Gets New Seats, Carpet, and a Restored 1927 Organ Ahead of Its 100th Season

When Mount Baker Theatre reopens its main stage this summer, the audience will find a room that looks and feels meaningfully different. New seats are being

Slater Road in Ferndale Closes Monday for BNSF Railroad Maintenance

Slater Road in Ferndale will be closed for most of next week as BNSF Railway performs maintenance work at the road's railroad crossing near LaBounty Drive.

July 10, 2026

Bellingham Man Accused in D.C. National Guard Shooting Hospitalized After Refusing Food

Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national from Bellingham charged with killing a National Guard soldier near the White House, was hospitalized after refusin

Bellingham Moving to Permanently Eliminate Parking Minimums — Public Hearing July 13

Bellingham City Council holds a public hearing Monday July 13 on permanently eliminating parking minimums citywide, a policy already in effect under an int

Road Closures in Downtown Bellingham This Weekend for Tune-Up Festival and Pride Parade

Multiple downtown Bellingham streets are closed through Sunday for the Northwest Tune-Up Festival and Bellingham Pride Parade. W Laurel, Granary, and Chest

Pedestrian Hit by Vehicle on I-5 Sunset Drive Overpass in Early-Morning Collision

A pedestrian was struck by a vehicle on the I-5 Sunset Drive overpass in Bellingham at 4:45 a.m. July 9 and transported to PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical C

Northwest Tune-Up Bike and Music Festival Opens Today in Downtown Bellingham

The Northwest Tune-Up Bike and Music Festival runs July 10-12 in downtown Bellingham with world-class mountain biking, live music, craft beer, and local ar

New Flood Aid Available for Whatcom County Families With Young Children

Whatcom Long Term Recovery Group is offering financial assistance for Whatcom County families with children ages 5 and under who have unmet needs from the

July 9, 2026

Bellingham Fire Department Appoints First Female Chief-Level Officer in Its History

Rachel Carlson joins the Bellingham Fire Department as Assistant Chief, becoming the first woman to hold a chief-level position.

Border Patrol Agents Apprehend Romanian Citizen Near Blaine

U.S. Border Patrol agents apprehended a Romanian citizen illegally present near Blaine, Washington, awaiting removal.

FEMA's In-Person Disaster Help in Sumas Closes After Friday -- Last Chance for December Flood Victims

FEMA's Disaster Assistance Center in Sumas closes after July 10. December flood victims have one day left for in-person help.

Luna Fire Grows to Seven Acres in North Cascades

A lightning-sparked wildfire has grown to roughly seven acres in North Cascades National Park, east of Bellingham.

Whatcom Sheriff Seeks Help Finding Hiker Overdue Since June 24

The Whatcom County Sheriff's Office is seeking the public's help to locate Steven Dorsett, 55, overdue since June 24.

Sudden Valley's Fire Station Is Almost Back After a Two-Year Closure

South Whatcom Fire Authority's Station 22 in Sudden Valley is nearing its return after a two-year closure.

July 8, 2026

Second Man Sentenced in Bellingham's Fatal Drive-By Shooting on the Guide Meridian

Alan Ramos, 21, was sentenced to just over four years in prison for his role in the October 2025 drive-by shooting that killed Daytin Duronso-Harp on the G

Bellingham's Post Point Plant Moves Toward a $40M Upgrade. Environmentalists Say That's Not Fast Enough.

The City of Bellingham is advancing a $40 million incinerator upgrade at Post Point, while environmental advocates push for faster adoption of gasification

Lake Padden Park Samish Way Entrance Closes Wednesday and Thursday for Asphalt Work

The Samish Way entrance to Lake Padden Park closes July 8-9 for asphalt replacement. Trails, dog park, golf course, and boat launch remain open via alterna

Man Dies After Boat Capsizes in Bellingham Bay on Fourth of July

A 49-year-old man died July 4 after his boat capsized in Bellingham Bay. Coast Guard and Bellingham Fire responded but could not revive him.

Fire on Walnut Street Destroys Two Garages, Heavily Damages Bellingham Home

A fire at a home in the 3000 block of Walnut Street in Bellingham's Columbia neighborhood destroyed two detached garages and caused heavy damage to the mai

Whatcom County Home Prices Barely Moved This Spring. But Homes Are Taking Much Longer to Sell.

Whatcom County's Q2 2026 median home price held at $640,500, up just 1%. But homes took 67% longer to sell in Bellingham compared to last year, as buyers r

July 7, 2026

Washington AG Nick Brown Visits Bellingham, Details 61 Lawsuits Against Trump Administration

Washington Attorney General Nick Brown made a stop in Bellingham last month, speaking at a City Club meeting and taking questions about his office's ongoin

BC Wildfire Sends Smoke Into Whatcom County, Air Quality Hits Unhealthy Levels Near Lynden

A fast-moving wildfire burning north of Hope, British Columbia is sending smoke south across the border, causing hazy skies and degraded air quality in par

Bellingham's Algorithmic Rent Price-Fixing Ban Earns Its Way to November Ballot

Bellingham voters will decide in November whether to ban landlords from using algorithmic software to coordinate rental prices, after the Whatcom County Au

Fireworks Injuries Nearly Triple at PeaceHealth St. Joseph Over Whatcom County's Fourth of July

PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center in Bellingham treated 14 patients for fireworks-related injuries over the Fourth of July weekend -- nearly three time

I-5 Narrows to One Lane South of Bellingham Starting July 9 -- Plan for Two Weeks of Delays

Drivers traveling I-5 between Bellingham and Burlington are facing significant delays in the days ahead. The Washington State Department of Transportation

Large Search Continues in Twin Sisters for Missing Whatcom County Hiker Gursimran Randhawa

The rugged Twin Sisters mountains in central Whatcom County became the focus of one of the most significant search-and-rescue operations in recent regional

July 6, 2026

Alpha Technologies to Close Bellingham Facility, 75 Workers Face Layoffs

EnerSys filed a WARN notice with Washington state indicating Alpha Technologies Services' Bellingham facility on Alpha Way will permanently close by Octobe

Ferndale's Busiest Fire Station Now Staffed 24/7

Whatcom Fire District 7 Station 41 in downtown Ferndale is now staffed around the clock with at least three full-time firefighters, expected to improve EMS

Port of Bellingham Lands $23.5 Million to Rebuild Shipping Terminal

The Port of Bellingham secured a $23.5 million federal BUILD grant for Phase 2 of the North Pier Rehabilitation project, expected to double load capacity a

Whatcom County to Host Third Community Meeting for New Jail

Whatcom County will hold a third public workshop on its proposed new jail on July 22 at the Squalicum Boathouse, ahead of a major decision on size and scop

July 5, 2026

America Turns 250: Blaine Sector Border Patrol Marks Independence Day

The U.S. Border Patrol Blaine Sector joined communities across Whatcom County in marking America's 250th birthday on the Fourth of July, reflecting on 250 years of American spirit and resilience.

World Cup Watch Party in Bellingham: USA vs. Belgium Monday at Trackside Beer Garden

Bellingham bars and taphouses are hosting World Cup watch parties for USA vs. Belgium on Monday July 6, with Trackside Beer Garden at Kulshan Brewing Co. adding a second screen and extended beer garden for the 5pm kickoff.

July 4, 2026

No Fireworks in Bellingham City Limits This Fourth of July -- Watch the Spectacular Instead

Bellingham Police and Fire remind residents that all consumer fireworks are banned within city limits this Fourth of July. The 2026 Peoples Bank Fourth of July Spectacular fires over Bellingham Bay at Zuanich Point Park around 10:30 p.m.

Border Patrol Arrests Guatemalan Citizen Near Sumas, Removal Proceedings Underway

U.S. Border Patrol agents with the Blaine Sector apprehended a Guatemalan citizen near Sumas, Washington who was illegally present in the United States. Removal proceedings are now underway.

BPD: Leave Fireworks to the Pros and Head to the Waterfront This Fourth of July

Bellingham Police remind residents of the city's fireworks ban ahead of tonight's Fourth of July celebrations. Consumer fireworks are illegal in city limits.

Search Continues for Missing Canadian Hiker Near South Twin Mountain

Whatcom County Search and Rescue teams and Bellingham Mountain Rescue are searching for 34-year-old Gursimran Singh, a Canadian hiker overdue by nearly a week after hiking near South Twin Sisters Mountain.

Whatcom County Public Works Offices Closed for Fourth of July; Whatcom Chief on Holiday Schedule

Whatcom County Public Works offices are closed July 4 for Independence Day. The Whatcom Chief ferry is running on a holiday schedule. Offices reopen Monday, July 6.

Whatcom County Sheriff Wishes Happy Fourth of July on America's 250th Anniversary

The Whatcom County Sheriff's Office extended Fourth of July greetings to residents on America's 250th anniversary, urging safety during the holiday.

July 1, 2026

Bellingham Fan Zone: World Cup Double Header Today at Kulshan Brewing

Bellingham Fan Zone hosts a World Cup double header July 1 at Kulshan Brewing's Trackside location. Belgium vs. Senegal at 1 p.m. and USA vs. Bosnia at 5 p.m. Scarves and prizes at 4 p.m.

Birch Bay Fireworks Cleanup Volunteer Event July 5, 2026

Whatcom Conservation District is organizing a post-July 4th fireworks debris cleanup at Birch Bay on July 5, 2026, 9 AM to noon. Supplies provided. Protect wildlife and water quality.

Birch Bay Fourth of July 2026: Fireworks, Beach Safety, and What to Know

Whatcom County Sheriff and State Parks urge responsible celebration at Birch Bay this Fourth of July. Fireworks are banned on state park beaches. Pack it in, pack it out.

Northwest Raspberry Festival Returns to Lynden July 17-18, 2026

The annual Northwest Raspberry Festival in Lynden, WA is set for July 17-18, 2026. Street fair, live music, raspberry farm tours, basketball tournament, and the Razz & Shine car show.

Port of Bellingham Fourth of July Fireworks: Trail Closures and Full Event Guide

The Port of Bellingham's Peoples Bank Fourth of July Spectacular returns to Zuanich Point Park on July 4, 2026. Family activities start at 4 p.m., fireworks at 10:30 p.m. ASB waterfront trail closed July 2–6.

Whatcom County Emergency Briefing July 1, 2026: No Active Incidents, Moderate Fire Danger

Whatcom County Emergency Management's July 1, 2026 daily briefing: EOC not activated, no advisories or warnings, DNR fire danger at moderate. Hazard Mitigation Plan survey closes July 1.

June 30, 2026

Bellingham Experience Photo Contest Launches July 1: Submit Your Best Whatcom County Shot

The Bellingham Experience photo contest launches July 1, 2026. Residents are invited to submit photos representing Bellingham or Whatcom County communities. Prizes and entry details available online.

Bellingham Bans All Consumer Fireworks for Fourth of July 2026

The Bellingham Fire Department reminds residents that all consumer fireworks are prohibited within Bellingham city limits. Here's where to celebrate safely this Fourth of July.

Lifeguards Return to Bloedel Donovan Park Starting June 29

After a two-year absence, lifeguards are back at Bloedel Donovan Park on Lake Whatcom in Bellingham. Staff will be on duty 1-6 PM daily through August 30, weather permitting.

Whatcom County Emergency Briefing: Burn Ban, Drought, and Fire Danger for Summer 2026

Whatcom County's Emergency Management daily briefing covers a Stage 1 burn ban through September, statewide drought conditions, and moderate fire danger heading into July 4th weekend.

Whatcom County New Jail Takes Shape: Council Reviews Scaled-Back Facility Design

The Whatcom County Council reviewed proposed features for the new jail on June 23. The facility was scaled from 227,000 to 150,000 sq ft, with the Finance Board recommending approval.

WWU Researchers Find 93% of San Juan Islands' Old-Growth Grasslands Are Gone

Western Washington University researchers used historical maps and aerial imagery to document a 93% loss of persistent old-growth grasslands in the San Juan Islands since the 1890s.

June 29, 2026

Beautiful Ripples of Life Around Bellingham, WA

A look at the everyday moments of joy, community, and natural beauty that make Bellingham, WA a special place to call home this summer.

Bellingham Public Library's Pride Month Reading Picks for Adults

Bellingham Public Library staff member Lark shares three Pride Month recommendations for adults: a vampire sequel, a demon horror comedy, and a romantic film about identity and culture.

June 28, 2026

Summer Reading Superstars Can Win Free Mini Golf at Bellis Fair Mall This Summer

Kids ages 5-18 enrolled in Bellingham Public Library's Summer Reading Program may receive free coupons to Mammoth Mini Golf at Bellis Fair Mall, thanks to a local business partnership.

Lifeguards Return to Bloedel Donovan Park Starting Monday, June 29

Bellingham Parks announces lifeguards will be on duty at Bloedel Donovan Park starting Monday, June 29, from 1 to 6 p.m. daily through August 30.

Chuckanut Foot Race Returns to Bellingham This Sunday

The annual Chuckanut Foot Race kicks off Sunday, June 28 at 9 a.m. from Marine Park in Fairhaven, winding through scenic trails to Larrabee State Park.

Lake Padden Triathlon Wraps Up Sunday: Watch for Cyclists and Runners on Samish Way

The Lake Padden Triathlon continues through Sunday with road closures near Lake Padden Park. West End parking closed until 4:30 p.m. Cyclists on Lake Samish Way and surrounding roads.

Tennant Lake Boardwalk: A Summer Must-Visit Near Ferndale, WA

The Tennant Lake boardwalk near Ferndale, WA is one of Whatcom County's hidden gems. Summer is peak season for water lilies, birds, and the award-winning fragrance garden.

June 27, 2026

Cedar Commons Opens in Bellingham: Affordable Apartments and Early Learning Center Welcome First Residents

Opportunity Council's Cedar Commons affordable housing complex at Eliza Avenue and Bellis Fair Parkway held its Phase 1 open house. Residents are moving in. Rents start at $569/month.

Consumer Fireworks Banned in Bellingham This Fourth of July

The City of Bellingham's fireworks ban covers all consumer fireworks including sparklers and fountains. Fines up to $1,000. Public show at Zuanich Point Park July 4.

Fourth of July 2026 in Whatcom County: Events and America's 250th Birthday

4th of July 2026 events in Bellingham and Whatcom County: People's 4th Spectacular at Zuanich Point Park, Old Fashioned 4th in Blaine, Blues Brews and BBQ, and more.

Padden Triathlon Saturday: Slow Down Near Lake Padden and Lake Samish

The Padden Triathlon takes place Saturday June 28. Both bike courses use county roads near Lake Padden and Lake Samish. Whatcom County Public Works urges drivers to slow down.

Whatcom County Invites Public Comment on Comprehensive Plan Update: Hearing July 14

Whatcom County is finalizing updates to its Comprehensive Plan, Zoning Code, zoning maps, and Foothills Subarea Plan. Public hearing July 14 at 6PM at the County Courthouse, 311 Grand Avenue.

Whatcom County Burn Ban and Drought in Effect as Holiday Weekend Approaches

Whatcom County heads into July 4th weekend with a Stage 1 burn ban through September 15 and an ongoing drought declaration. No active emergency activations but residents urged to sign up for alerts.

June 26, 2026

Border Patrol Assists ICE in Arresting Three in Whatcom County

U.S. Border Patrol agents from the Blaine Sector assisted ICE in the arrest of three adult males found to be illegally present in the United States in the Whatcom County area.

Lummi Island Ferry Goes Dark July 6: No Midday Service Due to Dock Repairs

The Whatcom Chief will suspend midday ferry service between Gooseberry Point and Lummi Island from 10:10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Monday, July 6, for necessary dock repairs.

Shuksan Middle School Names Jessica Wallace as New Assistant Principal

Principal Craig Baldwin announced that Jessica Wallace, a TOSA with deep roots in Bellingham School District, will join Shuksan Middle School as assistant principal for the 2026-27 school year.

Whatcom County Emergency Briefing: Burn Ban in Effect, Drought Declared, No Active Incidents

Whatcom County's June 25 emergency briefing confirms no active incidents or EOC activation, a Stage 1 outdoor burn ban through September 15, and an ongoing drought declaration covering the county.

Whatcom County Releases After Action Report on Winter Severe Weather Shelter

Whatcom County Health and Community Services published its after action report on the county's severe weather shelter operations last winter, highlighting partnership successes and ongoing staffing challenges.

Maple Falls Warrant Yields Two Homicide Arrests, Illegal Firearm in Mount Vernon Murder Case

Whatcom County Sheriff and Bellingham Police SWAT served a search warrant in Maple Falls on June 25, arresting a teenager and a Burlington woman in connection with the June 11 Mount Vernon homicide.

June 25, 2026

Bellingham Fire Department and Compass Health Partner on Mental Health Crisis Response

The Bellingham Fire Department and Compass Health are working side by side to bring behavioral health expertise into emergency response across Whatcom County.

Border Patrol Arrests Mexican National Near Vedder Mountain, WA

U.S. Border Patrol Blaine Sector agents arrested a Mexican national near Vedder Mountain, Washington. The individual is now in removal proceedings.

Border Patrol Arrests Tanzanian National Near Blaine, WA

U.S. Border Patrol Blaine Sector agents arrested a Tanzanian national near Blaine, Washington. The individual is now in removal proceedings.

Lake Padden Park Paving Project: Wilkin Street Entrance Closes June 29

The Wilkin Street entrance at Lake Padden Park will be temporarily closed June 29 through July 1 for asphalt repair and replacement. The dog park and trails remain open.

Whatcom Chief Ferry Dry Dock: Lummi Island Service Suspended Sept 12 - Oct 4

The Whatcom Chief ferry is scheduled for dry dock September 12 through October 4, 2026. A passenger-only ferry will run during the outage; no vehicle service or shuttle.

Whatcom County Winter Shelter Report: Stronger Partnerships, Better Guest Outcomes

Whatcom County has released its after-action report on the 2025-2026 winter severe weather shelter season, highlighting new partnerships and improved guest satisfaction.

June 24, 2026

August 4, 2026 Primary Election: What Whatcom County Voters Need to Know

Ballots for the August 4 primary and special election will be mailed to Whatcom County voters on July 15. Here's what you need to know about receiving, completing, and returning your ballot.

City of Bellingham Opens Tourism Grant Applications; Deadline September 4

The City of Bellingham is accepting applications for annual tourism grants ranging from $5,000 to $100,000, funded by lodging tax revenue. The deadline to apply is Friday, September 4, 2026.

Meet Darby McDevitt, the WWU Alum Behind the Worlds of Assassin's Creed

Darby McDevitt, a Western Washington University alumnus, built the narrative worlds behind multiple Assassin's Creed games at Ubisoft. WWU is featuring his career as an example of how the university's humanities programs shape careers in the games industry.

Ferndale Police Department Administrative Offices Close Early Thursday, June 25

The Ferndale Police Department's administrative offices will close at 12:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 25, 2026, for a staff training event. Court services and lobby access remain available.

Pride in Bellingham 2026: Full Weekend of Events July 10-12

Pride in Bellingham kicks off July 10 with events in Historic Fairhaven, a downtown dance at -HUT-, and Drag Prov at The Upfront Theatre. The weekend culminates July 12 with a downtown parade and festival at Depot Market Square.

Whatcom County Under Heat Advisory; Hazard Mitigation Meeting Tonight

Whatcom County is under a heat advisory through Tuesday evening and a countywide burn ban is in effect. A virtual public meeting on the county's Hazard Mitigation Plan update is scheduled for tonight.

June 23, 2026

Captain Brian Jones Retires from Bellingham Fire Department After 26 Years of Service

Captain Brian Jones is retiring from the Bellingham Fire Department after more than 26 years of service, having joined in 1999 after attending Western Wash

Border Patrol Arrests Mexican National Near Everson in Whatcom County

U.S. Border Patrol agents from the Blaine Sector arrested a Mexican national near Everson, WA on June 22, 2026. The individual is being held for immigratio

Border Patrol Arrests Man Near Lynden; Prior DUI on Record

U.S. Border Patrol agents arrested a Mexican national near Lynden, WA, on June 22, 2026. The individual has a prior DUI arrest and is being held for remova

Bellingham Police Department Hiring Officers and Dispatchers; Testing July 11

The Bellingham Police Department is seeking entry-level police officers and dispatchers, with Public Safety Testing exams scheduled for Saturday, July 11,

Whatcom County Issues Heat Advisory and Burn Ban; Hazard Mitigation Meeting Tonight

Whatcom County is under a heat advisory through Tuesday night with a countywide Stage 1 burn ban in place. A virtual Hazard Mitigation Plan public meeting

Western Washington University CS Students Build Apps to Expand Access to Legal Help

Three Western Washington University computer science senior groups completed capstone projects building apps designed to reduce barriers to affordable lega

June 22, 2026

Bellingham Fire Department Honors Dads on Father's Day 2026

The Bellingham Fire Department honored the fathers and father figures serving on the department this Father's Day, recognizing their dual roles at home and on duty.

Bellingham Public Library Staff Pick for Pride Month: The Hidden Case of Ewan Forbes

Bellingham Public Library Public Services Clerk Karen recommends The Hidden Case of Ewan Forbes by Zoe Playdon for Pride Month 2026.

June 21, 2026

Bellingham Public Library Celebrates LGBTQ+ Pride Month With Book Recommendations and Displays

The Bellingham Public Library is celebrating LGBTQ+ Pride in June with staff-curated reading recommendations for all ages, on display at all BPL locations.

A Bird's-Eye View of Lake Whatcom: Summer Photos Capture Bellingham's Stunning Scenery

Photographer Chelsea Robinson shares a breathtaking aerial view above Lake Whatcom in Bellingham, WA on the summer solstice.

Summer Solstice 2026: How Bellingham, WA Marks the Longest Day of the Year

Today is the summer solstice — the official start of summer 2026. Here is how Bellingham and Whatcom County celebrate the longest day of the year.

June 20, 2026

BPD Uses Drone and K9 to Arrest Drug Suspect After Rooftop Chase

Bellingham police used a drone and WCSO K9 Luca to track down a drug suspect who fled on foot, dropping drug baggies, and hid on an apartment rooftop.

Ferndale Third Avenue to Run Single Lane Traffic June 22 Through July 3

Third Avenue in Ferndale between Vista Dr. and Washington St. will be reduced to alternating single-lane traffic June 22 through July 3 for utility work near the former Cargill grain facility.

Library Card Night at the Bellingham Bells: June 25 at Joe Martin Field

Show your Bellingham Public Library card for free general admission to the Bellingham Bells game on Thursday, June 25 at Joe Martin Field. Gate opens at 5:30pm.

Whatcom County Public Works Offices Closed Friday for Juneteenth

Whatcom County Public Works offices were closed Friday, June 19 in observance of Juneteenth. Offices reopen Monday, June 22. Emergency calls go to 911.

Whatcom County Summer Farmers Markets: Your Weekend Guide

Whatcom County has multiple Saturday farmers markets running all summer, from Bellingham Farmers Market to Lynden, Blaine, and Dockside locations open 10am-2pm.

June 19, 2026

Ace the Dog Spots Himself on a WTA Bus: The Face of Whatcom County's Scoop the Poop Campaign

Ace, an 18-year-old dog and star of Whatcom County's Scoop the Poop campaign, spotted his own face on a WTA bus. He stopped for a photo.

Summer Is Here in Bellingham: Spray Parks Open, Concerts Kicking Off, Bellingham Bells Return

Three city spray parks opened June 15. The Elizabeth Park Concert Series kicks off its 32nd season. The Bellingham Bells are back, and library cardholders get a free ticket next Thursday.

Biotoxin Closures Lifted in Northern Whatcom County

Washington State Department of Health lifted the PSP biotoxin closure from Sandy Point north to the Canadian border. Shellfish harvest south of Sandy Point remains closed.

Nominate a Star: BPSF Gold Star Awards Honor Bellingham School Staff

The Bellingham Public Schools Foundation is accepting nominations for Gold Star Awards to recognize teachers, paraeducators, bus drivers, and support staff. Submissions close soon.

Colophon Cafe Donates Cookies to Bellingham Library Summer Reading Program

The Colophon Cafe in Fairhaven is donating prize cookies to support Summer Reading at Bellingham Public Library. Kids ages 5-18 can earn a free cookie coupon by completing their first activity card.

Juneteenth 2026: County and City Offices Closed Today in Bellingham

Whatcom County offices are closed Friday, June 19 for Juneteenth. Emergency services remain available. Regular hours resume Monday, June 22.

June 18, 2026

Bellingham Fan Zone Goes Big for Juneteenth: World Cup Watch Party on Commercial Street

Bellingham's FIFA World Cup Fan Zone hosts Commercial Break on June 19, a free watch party on Commercial Street with a 16-foot LED screen, beer garden, and Lummi Nation soccer star Temryss Lane.

Bellingham Fire Department Honors Four Promotions and TEMS Milestone

Bellingham Fire Department promoted Captain Carver, EMS Captain Johnson, Battalion Chief Frank, and Accounting Technician Ramona Leon-Guerrero in a June 2026 ceremony.

Birch Bay Beach Cleanup July 5: Volunteers Needed at the Berm

A coalition of Whatcom County organizations is hosting a free beach cleanup at Birch Bay Berm on July 5, 9AM-12PM. Gloves, bags, and refreshments provided.

41 Volunteers Steward Lake Whatcom Park on National Trails Day

Whatcom Land Trust and WMBC brought 41 volunteers to Lake Whatcom Park for National Trails Day, improving water runoff, preventing erosion, and protecting the watershed that supplies drinking water to tens of thousands.

Whatcom County Behavioral Health Fund Report: 2,582 Youth Served, ART Handles 2,140 Calls

Whatcom County's 2024-2025 Behavioral Health Fund report shows 2,582 youth served, 2,140 ART responses, and 10 years of Mental Health Court success, even as sales tax revenue slows.

Whatcom County Offices Closed Friday for Juneteenth Holiday

Whatcom County government offices will be closed Friday, June 19, in observance of Juneteenth. Public Works emergency services remain on-call. Offices reopen Monday, June 22.

June 16, 2026

Free Summer Meals for Kids at Bellingham Schools Starting June 29

Bellingham Public Schools will offer free breakfast and lunch at Parkview Elementary and Whatcom Middle School from June 29 through July 23 for children 18 and under.

Border Patrol Arrests Two Chinese Nationals Near Blaine, WA

U.S. Border Patrol agents from the Blaine Sector arrested two Chinese nationals near Blaine, Washington on June 15, 2026. Both are awaiting removal proceedings.

Missing Bellingham Man Daniel Weatherby Found Safe After Community Alert

A Silver Alert for Daniel Weatherby, 79, last seen at the Cordata WTA Station, was resolved Monday afternoon when he was found safe and sound.

Ferndale, WA Celebrates Ivan Colin Mural on Main Street

A striking new mural by artist Ivan Colin graces Main Street in Ferndale, WA, with each letter depicting unique local aspects of Whatcom County including the famous Metallica bridge.

Port of Bellingham Installs 100 kW Community Solar Array on Fishermen's Pavilion

The Port of Bellingham partnered with Puget Sound Energy to install a 100-kilowatt community solar array on the Fishermen's Pavilion roof at Zuanich Point Park.

Whatcom County 911 Outage Resolved After Hours-Long Disruption

Whatcom County and Bellingham experienced a widespread 911 service disruption on Monday afternoon, June 15, 2026. Service was restored by approximately 6 p.m.

June 15, 2026

One Drive, Endless Views: Chuckanut Drive in Peak Summer Form

Chuckanut Drive, Bellingham's iconic scenic byway along Bellingham Bay, is at its most stunning this June. Here's what to know before you go.

June 14, 2026

Free Typewriter and Snail Mail Art Event at Bellingham Public Library June 20

The Bellingham Public Library hosts The Art of Typing Snail Mail on June 20, combining typewriter and correspondence programs into a free all-ages creative event.

Photo Contest Open: Submit Your Whatcom County Shots for a Chance to Win Ghost Tour Tickets

Visit Bellingham has opened submissions for its next photo contest. Top photographers win ghost tour tickets and a Chrysalis Inn gift card. Voting begins July 1.

Bellingham Youth Triathlon Returns July 26 at Arne Hanna Aquatic Center

Kids ages 5 to 13 can swim, bike, and run at the 2026 Bellingham Youth Triathlon on July 26 at Arne Hanna Aquatic Center. Registration is open now.

Border Patrol Arrests Mexican National Near Lynden, WA

U.S. Border Patrol agents from the Blaine Sector arrested a Mexican national near Lynden, Washington. The individual is now in removal proceedings.

June 13, 2026

New Washington E-Bike Law Took Effect June 11: What Bellingham Riders and Parents Need to Know

Washington SB 6110 draws a clear legal line between e-bikes and electric motorcycles. Bellingham Police are sharing key rules for parents and young riders.

Library Summer Reading Kicks Off With Free Bellingham Bells Tickets June 25

Show your library card at Joe Martin Field on June 25 for a free ticket to the Bellingham Bells home game. Gates open at 5:30pm, first pitch at 6:35pm.

Bellingham Schools Wrap Up the 2025-26 Year With a Message of Care and Respect

Friday was the last day of school for Bellingham School District students. Superintendent Greg Baker reflected on a year centered on care and respect.

WWU's Kaiser Borsari Hall Awarded Energy Performance Grant

Western Washington University's Kaiser Borsari Hall has received an energy performance grant, continuing WWU's focus on sustainability in its campus facilities.

Lummi Island Ferry May Face Midday Cancellations June 15-16 Due to Extreme Low Tides

Extreme low tides could force short-notice cancellations of the Whatcom Chief ferry on Monday and Tuesday. Riders heading to Lummi Island should plan ahead.

Heat Advisory Issued for Whatcom County Foothills; Stage 1 Burn Ban Begins June 15

A heat advisory is in effect for parts of Whatcom County this weekend, and a county-wide Stage 1 burn ban starts Monday. Bellingham Fire has safety reminders.

June 12, 2026

Artist Point Is Open: SR 542 Reopens Several Weeks Earlier Than Last Year

The road to Artist Point on Mount Baker Highway reopened June 10 after WSDOT crews cleared up to 20 feet of snow. Trails remain under deep snow, but the parking lot and vault toilets are open.

Bellingham Launches Home Share Program to Connect Homeowners With Renters

Bellingham's new home share program matches homeowners who have spare bedrooms with renters seeking affordable housing. The city estimates up to 10,000 unused bedrooms exist in Bellingham.

Ferndale Road Closure: Church Rd. and Thornton St. Intersection Closed June 16-17

The intersection of Church Road and Thornton Street in Ferndale, WA will be closed June 16-17 from 6:30 AM to 5 PM each day for grinding and repaving work. Detour signs will be posted.

FIFA World Cup Traffic Expected Through Whatcom County This Summer

Whatcom County travelers should expect heavier than usual traffic mid-June through early July as FIFA World Cup matches draw visitors to Seattle and Vancouver, BC.

Nooksack Mayor Kevin Hester Passes Away at 59

Kevin Hester, who led Nooksack through two major flood recoveries and spent 30 years with the Whatcom County Sheriff's Office, died June 9 of neuroendocrine cancer.

Whatcom County Heat Advisory: Record Temperatures Possible This Weekend

A heat advisory covers Whatcom County from Sunday June 14 through Tuesday June 16, with record highs possible. Inland areas like Lynden, Glacier, and Maple Falls will see the hottest temps.

June 11, 2026

Bellingham's Voluntary Summer Watering Schedule Is Back -- Here's What to Know

The City of Bellingham's voluntary outdoor watering schedule runs June 1 through September 30. Odd addresses water Sun/Wed/Fri; even addresses water Tue/Thu/Sat; everyone skips Mondays.

BPD Swears In Three New Officers, One the Son of a Current Bellingham Police Officer

Bellingham Police Department welcomed Officers Wubben, Buckmaster, and Sturgeon from the Basic Law Enforcement Academy. Officer Wubben, top of his class, is a second-generation BPD officer.

Two Whatcom Nonprofits Receive $750,000 in Flood Recovery Funding for Families

The Whatcom Healthy Children's Fund awarded $750,000 to WLTRG and Skookum Kids to help families with young children impacted by the December 2025 flooding.

Whatcom County Stage 1 Burn Ban Starts Monday, FEMA Recovery Wrapping Up in Sumas and Everson

A Stage 1 burn ban takes effect June 15 across unincorporated Whatcom County through September 15. FEMA recovery work in Sumas and Everson concludes June 10.

Public Invited to Watch Logic and Accuracy Test for Whatcom County's August 4 Primary

Whatcom County's official Logic and Accuracy test for the August 4, 2026 Primary and Special Election is scheduled for July 1 at 2pm at the Courthouse in Bellingham. Public observers welcome.

Whatcom County Offers Free Homeowner Septic Inspection Training June 24 in Ferndale

Whatcom County Health is offering a free in-person septic inspection training for homeowners on June 24, 10am-12pm at the Ferndale WECU. Qualified homeowners can also receive a maintenance rebate.

June 10, 2026

Last Day of School for Bellingham Kids is This Friday, June 12 — Here's the Early Dismissal Schedule

The Bellingham School District's 2025-26 school year wraps up Friday, June 12 with early dismissals at all schools. Office hours, summer closures, and June

Skip the Parking Headache This Summer: WTA's Waterfront Trolley Connects Bellingham's Best Venues

WTA Route 47, the Waterfront Trolley, gives visitors and locals a car-free way to reach the Portal Container Village, Granary Building, Zuanich Point Park,

Join Whatcom CD and BBWARM for Intertidal Exploration at What's The Point? This Sunday

Whatcom Conservation District and BBWARM are teaming up at the What's The Point? event this Sunday, June 14. Come explore the intertidal zone and visit the

Whatcom County Stage 1 Burn Ban Starts June 15, FEMA Recovery Wrapping Up in Sumas-Everson

A county-wide Stage 1 burn ban takes effect June 15 through September 15, while FEMA recovery work in the Sumas-Everson area concludes June 10. A public ha

Free Help With Your WRIA 1 Water Rights Claim Form at Van Zandt Community Center Today

Whatcom County Public Works is offering free help with WRIA 1 water rights claim forms today at the Van Zandt Community Center in Deming. Walk-ins welcome

WWU Space Science Students Take Their Lab Work to Congress, Lobby for NASA Funding Alongside Bill Nye

Three Western Washington University students traveled to the U.S. Capitol with Bill Nye and The Planetary Society to advocate for NASA funding, meeting wit

June 9, 2026

Border Patrol Arrests Man Near Lynden on DUI History, Removal Proceedings Underway

Blaine Sector Border Patrol agents arrested a Mexican national near Lynden, WA with prior DUI arrests. The individual is awaiting removal proceedings.

Day at the Beach Returns to Birch Bay State Park with Record 275 Attendees

The 8th Annual Day at the Beach at Birch Bay State Park on May 30 drew roughly 275 attendees. More Birch Bay events are coming, including What's the Point on June 14 and a beach cleanup on July 5.

Six Fairhaven College Students Win $25,000 Adventure Learning Grants to Study Abroad

Six students from Western Washington University's Fairhaven College received the David T. Mason Adventure Learning Grant, each receiving $25,000 to pursue transformative study abroad projects starting this fall.

Uber Returns to Bellingham International Airport After Four-Year Absence

Starting June 15, 2026, Uber resumes rideshare service at Bellingham International Airport and Bellingham Cruise Terminal after a five-year fee dispute.

Whatcom County Emergency Briefing: No Active Incidents, Hazard Mitigation Meeting June 23

Whatcom County Emergency Operations Center reports no active incidents for June 8, 2026. A virtual public meeting on the Hazard Mitigation Plan is set for June 23 at 6 p.m.

WWU Researchers Use Protein Analysis to Unlock Dungeness Crab Resilience Secrets

Professor Brooke Love at Western Washington University in Bellingham is using mass spectrometry and proteomics to understand why some Dungeness crab mothers produce offspring more resilient to ocean acidification.

June 8, 2026

Lake Padden: Bellingham's Beloved Park and Summer Recreation Hub

Lake Padden in Bellingham, WA is one of Whatcom County's most treasured outdoor destinations, offering swimming, trails, disc golf, and the upcoming Padden Triathlon on June 27.

June 7, 2026

Summer Family Fun Guide: Bellingham's Best Parks, Beaches, and Kid-Friendly Stops

From waterfront picnics at Marine Park to tide pools at Clayton Beach, here's a practical guide to family adventures around Bellingham and Whatcom County t

Bellingham's Three Free Spray Parks Open June 15 for Summer Season

Bellingham's three spray parks at Cordata Park, Cornwall Memorial Park, and Fairhaven Park open June 15 and run through September 15, free and open daily 1

Blaine Border Patrol TEU Arrests Mexican Citizen Near Blaine, WA

Blaine Targeted Enforcement Unit agents arrested a Mexican citizen with a prior criminal record near Blaine, WA on May 29. The individual is pending remova

Whatcom County Sheriff's Office Shares Update on Community Safety

The Whatcom County Sheriff's Office shared a community update on social media on June 6, 2026. The agency serves unincorporated Whatcom County and maintain

June 6, 2026

Bellingham Named Official FWC26 Fan Zone: World Cup Celebrations Start June 12

Bellingham, WA is an official FIFA World Cup 26 fan zone. With the tournament one week away, local events, outdoor watch parties, and participating businesses are ready starting June 12.

Bellingham Schools Free Lunch Program Changes in 2026-27: What Families Need to Know

Several Bellingham schools will lose eligibility for schoolwide free meals in fall 2026. Here's which schools are affected, what the changes mean, and how to access summer food programs.

Volunteer Beach Cleanup at Birch Bay Berm Scheduled for July 5

Whatcom County is hosting a volunteer beach cleanup next to the Birch Bay Berm on July 5. Bags, gloves, grabbers, and refreshments provided. Help keep Birch Bay beautiful this summer.

Whatcom County Sheriff's Office Announces Three Promotions: Sgt. Brown, Sgt. Remy, Chief Smith

The Whatcom County Sheriff's Office is recognizing three promotions within its ranks: Sgt. Brown, Sgt. Remy, and Chief Smith are recognized for their dedication and service.

Whatcom County Emergency Briefing: Hazard Mitigation Public Meeting June 23

Whatcom County's Emergency Operations Center reports no active incidents Friday. A public meeting on the updated Hazard Mitigation Plan is set for June 23 at 6 p.m. virtually.

WWU Theatre and Dance Invites Bellingham Audiences 'Into the Woods' This June

Western Washington University's Department of Theatre and Dance is presenting Sondheim's Into the Woods this June. Performances take place on the Bellingham campus.

June 5, 2026

Bellingham's World Cup Fan Zone Kicks Off June 12 with Free Watch Parties

Bellingham's official FIFA World Cup fan zone launches June 12 with free watch parties at Kulshan Trackside Beer Garden and a Whatcom Museum event.

Blaine Sector Border Patrol Turns Back Canadian Citizen Four Times in 24 Hours

Blaine Sector Border Patrol agents denied entry to a Canadian citizen four times in under 24 hours, returning the individual to Canada each time.

National Cheese Day Highlights Whatcom County's Homegrown Cheesemakers

National Cheese Day shines a light on Whatcom County's thriving artisan cheesemakers, from family creameries to farmers market favorites.

Whatcom County Stage 1 Burn Ban Takes Effect June 15 as Fire Season Begins

Whatcom County's Stage 1 Burn Ban takes effect June 15, 2026 through September 15, prohibiting outdoor burning in unincorporated areas amid drought conditi

Whatcom Region Transportation Plan Being Updated for 2050, Public Input Needed

The Whatcom Council of Governments is updating the region's long-range transportation plan for 2050 and is seeking public input on priorities from I-5 to b

June 4, 2026

James Street Getting a New Shared-Use Path — Road Closes Between Bakerview and Kellogg Starting June 8

James Street in Bellingham will close between Bakerview Road and Kellogg Road starting Monday, June 8 for roughly three weeks while the City builds a retaining wall for a new shared-use trail.

Cornwall Memorial Park Pickleball Courts Closed June 3–6 for Annual Maintenance

Bellingham Parks and Recreation has temporarily closed the Cornwall Memorial Park pickleball courts June 3–6 for annual pressure washing, inspections, and repairs. Cordata Park courts remain open.

Whatcom County Emergency Management Briefing: Burn Ban June 15, FEMA Recovery in Sumas and Everson

The Whatcom County Division of Emergency Management reports no active incidents June 3, but flags a county-wide Stage 1 burn ban starting June 15 and ongoing FEMA recovery work near Sumas and Everson through June 10.

Whatcom County Annual Safety Fair Near Barkley Village This Saturday, June 6

The Whatcom County Sheriff's Office invites families to the annual Barkley Family Safety Fair on Saturday, June 6. Deputies, emergency management staff, and local first responders will be on hand with activities for all ages.

Whatcom County Sheriff Warns of New Wave of Jail Phone Scams — Just Hang Up

The Whatcom County Sheriff's Office is warning residents about an uptick in scam calls claiming a loved one is in jail and demanding immediate payment for bail, medical care, or ankle monitoring.

WWU's Center for Economic and Financial Education Co-Hosts 2026 Washington Economics Symposium on July 28

Western Washington University's Center for Economic and Financial Education will co-host the third annual Washington Economics Symposium on July 28 at the University of Washington Bothell campus.

June 3, 2026

Bellingham Bells Open 2026 Season at Joe Martin Field

The Bellingham Bells kicked off their 2026 West Coast League baseball season with Opening Day at Joe Martin Field. First 500 fans received a free Opening Day pin.

Bellingham Public Library Summer Reading Program Runs June 1 Through August 31

Bellingham Public Library's 2026 Summer Reading program is underway for all ages through August 31. Pick up activity cards at any branch for chances to win prizes and free books.

Blaine Sector Agents Apprehend Two Near Sumas, WA

US Border Patrol Blaine Sector Targeted Enforcement Unit agents apprehended two individuals illegally present in the United States near Sumas, Washington on May 27, 2026.

Lummi Island Ferry Punch Card Sale and Exchange — June 3

The Whatcom County Ferry Division is holding a punch card sale and exchange event at the Lummi Island Ferry Office on Wednesday, June 3, from 5:40 a.m. to 2:40 p.m.

Whatcom County Emergency Briefing: Hazard Mitigation Plan Update — June 2, 2026

Whatcom County's Division of Emergency Management released its daily briefing for June 2, 2026, including details about a public meeting on the Hazard Mitigation Plan update.

Whatcom County Sheriff Warns of Rising Bail Scam Phone Calls

The Whatcom County Sheriff's Office is warning residents about a new wave of scam calls claiming a loved one is in jail and demanding money for bail, medical care, or ankle monitoring.

June 2, 2026

Drayton Harbor Road Closed Weekdays June 8-19 Near Shintaffer Road

Drivers should plan for a weekday daytime road closure on Drayton Harbor Road just west of Shintaffer Road, June 8-19, for PSE utility relocation ahead of a major landslide repair project.

Expect Delays Near Gooseberry Point Ferry Terminal June 2-11

Whatcom County Public Works is replacing a culvert near the Lummi Island ferry terminal at Gooseberry Point. One ferry holding lane will be closed June 2 through June 11.

Whatcom County Emergency Briefing: Burn Ban June 15, Hazard Mitigation Meeting Tonight

Whatcom County's June 1 emergency briefing covers a Stage 1 burn ban starting June 15, a public hazard mitigation meeting June 2, and ongoing FEMA recovery work in the Sumas and Everson area through June 10.

Wild Salmon Day: Nooksack Watershed Recovery Effort Spans Four Agencies

June 1 is Wild Salmon Day. Whatcom County, the Lummi Nation, Nooksack Indian Tribe, and WDFW are collaborating on salmon habitat restoration across the Nooksack River watershed.

WRIA 1 Water Rights Claim Help Session June 9 in Deming

Whatcom County Public Works is hosting a WRIA 1 water rights claim form help session on June 9 at Van Zandt Community Center in Deming. Claims are due June 1, 2027.

WWU Celebrates More Than 2,500 Graduates During Commencement Weekend

Western Washington University held its Commencement Weekend ceremonies, celebrating more than 2,500 graduates from programs across all six colleges at the Bellingham campus.

June 1, 2026

Cornwall Memorial Park Parking Lot Closed for Paving June 2 and June 8-12

Bellingham Parks and Recreation has announced a paving project at Cornwall Memorial Park. The Meridian Street entrance parking lot will be closed June 2 and June 8-12, 2026.

Summer Arrives at Taylor Dock: Bellingham's Waterfront Welcomes June

As May fades and June arrives, Bellingham's beloved Taylor Dock at Boulevard Park is drawing locals and visitors back to the waterfront for the start of summer.

May 31, 2026

Explore Point Whitehorn Marine Reserve at "What's the Point?" on June 14

Join Whatcom Land Trust and local naturalists at Point Whitehorn Marine Reserve in Birch Bay on June 14 for a free, family-friendly coastal exploration event.

May 30, 2026

How Bellingham's Bike and Pedestrian Improvements Get Funded

A voter-approved 0.02% sales tax and $17M in annual grants power Bellingham's bike lanes, flashing crosswalks, and the new James Street multimodal path now under construction.

Blaine Sector Border Patrol Arrests Man After Foot Pursuit Near Border

US Border Patrol Blaine Sector Tactical Enforcement Unit agents arrested a Mexican citizen in the country illegally after a foot pursuit, with the subject now held for removal proceedings.

From SWAT to The Point: Meet Whatcom County's Deputy Trent Leach

Whatcom County Sheriff's Deputy Trent Leach juggles SWAT duty, EMT certification, drone instruction, and being the sole law enforcement presence at Point Roberts, an American exclave accessible only through Canada.

Whatcom County Emergency Briefing: Drought, Burn Ban, and FEMA Recovery Underway

Whatcom County's emergency management office flagged a small craft advisory, ongoing drought conditions, and a stage 1 burn ban taking effect June 15 in its Friday briefing.

Whatcom County Justice Project: $225M Budget Set, Now Comes the Design Work

With a $225M budget cap approved in May, Whatcom County's Justice Project moves into active design for a new jail and behavioral health facility. Here's what happens next.

Whatcom County Public Health: How We Prepare for Unlikely Threats Like Ebola

Whatcom County public health officials address community concerns about Ebola, reassuring residents while explaining how local preparedness systems work even for rare threats.

May 29, 2026

Bellingham Police Land $3.7 Million Grant for Staffing, Technology, and Mental Health Response

The Bellingham Police Department has received a $3.7 million state grant to fund new officer positions, a civilian warrant clerk, and expanded behavioral health response capabilities.

Bellingham Task Force Recommends Closing Two Elementary Schools as Enrollment Declines

A Bellingham Public Schools facilities task force has recommended closing Carl Cozier Elementary and Columbia Elementary to address declining enrollment over the next decade.

Inside Bellingham May 2026: Herons, World's Games Fan Zone, Youth Pride, and a $3.7M Police Grant

The City of Bellingham's May 28 newsletter covers Great Blue Heron nesting season, the World's Games soccer fan zone in June, the Youth Pride Parade, and BPD's new public safety grant.

Jackson Road Bridge Replacement Design Now Open for Public Feedback

Whatcom County is seeking community input on final design concepts for the Jackson Road Bridge No. 81 replacement near Birch Bay, including railing and lighting options.

Lummi Island Ferry Scheduled Offline June 17 for Terminal Inspection

The Whatcom Chief ferry will be out of service from 10:10 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on June 17 for inspection and maintenance at Lummi Island and Gooseberry Point terminals.

Port of Bellingham Partners with Puget Sound Energy for Community Solar on Zuanich Point

The Port of Bellingham has partnered with Puget Sound Energy to install a 100-kilowatt community solar array on the Fisherman's Pavilion roof at Zuanich Point Park, enabling Whatcom County subscribers to access renewable energy.

May 28, 2026

Great Blue Herons Are Nesting in Bellingham Now. Here's How to Help Protect Them.

Bellingham's Great Blue Heron colonies at Post Point and Little Squalicum Park are in peak nesting season. The City and Bellingham Parks ask residents to stay 300 feet back and avoid drones near the birds.

Coast Guard Station Bellingham Runs Joint Boarding and K9 Training with CBP and Border Patrol

US Coast Guard crews at Station Bellingham partnered with US Customs and Border Protection and Border Patrol K9 teams for joint vessel boarding and substance identification training on their 45-foot Response Boats.

Whatcom Discovery School Paraeducator Honored with WCSO Civilian Commendation for Bravery

Sophie Steel, a paraeducator at Whatcom Discovery School, received a Whatcom County Sheriff's Office Civilian Commendation for her quick thinking and courage during a campus incident.

Whatcom County Emergency Management Briefing: Dry Stretch Ends Friday, Weekend Looks Clear

Whatcom County's emergency operations center is inactive as a warm, dry stretch wraps up this week. A drought declaration from WA Ecology remains in effect.

Whatcom Youth Pride Parade and Festival Returns Saturday, May 30 to Downtown Bellingham

The 2026 Whatcom Youth Pride Parade and Festival takes place Saturday, May 30 in downtown Bellingham, with a parade start at 11 AM followed by a festival at Bellingham High School.

WWU's 'Fostering Agency in Learning' Showcase Highlights Faculty Innovation This Friday

Western Washington University hosts its annual Showcase Learning Event on Friday, May 29, from 3-4:30 PM in the TLC Studio (College Hall 310), celebrating faculty who build student choice, challenge, and purpose into their courses.

May 27, 2026

Bellingham Fire Department Takes 1st in Corporate Division at Ski to Sea 2026

The BFD team placed 1st in the Corporate Division and 7th overall out of 500 teams at the 53rd annual Ski to Sea race in Whatcom County.

Everson Police, WSP Search for Missing 15-Year-Old Yesica Tellez

Everson Police and Washington State Patrol are searching for 15-year-old Yesica Tellez, last seen May 20 getting into a black sedan in downtown Everson.

One Year Later: Whatcom County's "Bee Spill" Changed How Washington Handles Emergencies

One year after 14 million bees spilled on a Lynden road, Whatcom County's response sparked a statewide emergency plan for honey bee accidents.

WWU's House of Healing Opens Doors to Collaboration, a Decade in the Making

Western Washington University's new longhouse -- the Lhaq'temish-ew'xw e tse XwLemi - House of Healing -- opened this month, the first longhouse in the City of Bellingham.

WWU Secures $3.1 Million NIH Grant to Expand Biomedical Research

Western Washington University has been awarded a $3.1 million NIH grant to expand biomedical research equipment and fund student pilot projects.

May 26, 2026

Larrabee State Park Draws Memorial Day Visitors as Bellingham Encourages Getting Outside

Larrabee State Park and Bellingham's outdoor spaces were a draw for Memorial Day visitors, as the region's natural landscape offered a quiet backdrop for r

Bellingham Fire Department Marks Memorial Day: Honoring Those Who Gave Everything

Bellingham firefighters joined agencies across Whatcom County on Memorial Day 2026 to honor military personnel who died in service to the United States.

Bellingham Police Honor the Fallen This Memorial Day 2026

The Bellingham Police Department paused Monday to honor service members who made the ultimate sacrifice, as Whatcom County marked Memorial Day 2026.

Whatcom County Government Offices Closed Monday for Memorial Day; Emergency Lines Stay Open

Whatcom County Public Works and other county offices were closed Monday for Memorial Day. Emergency services including 911 remained fully operational.

Whatcom County Sheriff's Office Pauses to Honor Fallen Service Members on Memorial Day

The Whatcom County Sheriff's Office joined agencies across the region in honoring U.S. military personnel who died in service, calling their courage and de

May 25, 2026

Boulevard Park and Bellingham's 9 PM Sunsets Are Back

The arrival of late-evening sunsets marks a beloved seasonal shift in Bellingham. Boulevard Park's waterfront comes alive as daylight stretches past 9 PM.

May 24, 2026

Bellingham's 2026 Memorial Day Parade Honors Fallen Heroes and Features a Very Special Chief

The annual Whatcom Memorial Day Parade returned to Cornwall Avenue Saturday, drawing crowds to honor veterans while a young Chief for a Day joined the march.

Snapshots of May: Bellingham Blooms, Live Music, and Local Flavors This Spring

From Bellingham Cider Company to waterfront concerts at the Granary, May brought a burst of community life to Whatcom County's favorite city.

May 21, 2026

Bellingham's Annual Meet-A-Truck Event at City Hall Today, May 21

The City of Bellingham hosts its annual Meet-A-Truck event today, May 21 from 1-3 p.m. outside City Hall, with big rigs, crew meet-and-greets, library crafts, and a family scavenger hunt.

BPD Seeks Public Help Locating Missing Bellingham Man Near Sehome Arboretum

Bellingham Police are asking for the public's help locating Tevis Honeycutt, 25, last seen near the Sehome Arboretum Tuesday while reported missing and in crisis.

Ski to Sea Race Sunday: Traffic Impacts Throughout Whatcom County

Whatcom County's largest relay race, Ski to Sea, runs this Sunday May 24 from Mt. Baker to Bellingham Bay with road closures and traffic impacts across the 93.5-mile course.

WWU's Newest Building Renamed the Western Welcome Center

Western Washington University has renamed its South Campus construction project the Western Welcome Center, reflecting the building's role as the front door for prospective and current students.

Whatcom County Health Offers Tips for Safe Swimming at Lakes and Beaches This Summer

Whatcom County Health and Community Services is urging residents to check for beach closures and shellfish advisories before heading to local lakes and saltwater beaches this summer.

Whatcom County Opens Public Bid to Remove Flood-Prone Home in Acme

The Whatcom County Flood Control Zone District is accepting bids for the purchase and removal of a county-owned home at 2096 Valley Highway in Acme as part of flood buyout efforts.

Whatcom County Emergency Briefing: No Active Incidents, Drought Watch Continues

Whatcom County Emergency Management reports no active incidents for Wednesday May 20. A statewide drought declaration issued April 8 remains in effect for Whatcom County.

May 20, 2026

Bellingham Hosts Two Free FIFA World Cup Watch Parties on June 19

Bellingham, WA will host two free outdoor FIFA World Cup 2026 watch parties on June 19 as part of the city's official SeattleFWC26 Fan Zone designation, one month away.

Nine Bellingham Firefighters Complete Three-Week Pump Operator Certification

Nine Bellingham Fire Department firefighters completed an intensive three-week pump operator certification covering apparatus maintenance, driving, hydraulics, and pump operations.

Ferndale Asks Residents Where Streets Feel Unsafe in New Safety Action Plan Survey

The City of Ferndale, WA is asking residents to identify dangerous road locations as part of a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan aimed at eliminating serious injuries and fatal crashes.

Whatcom Chief Ferry Service Resumes at 5 p.m. Tuesday

The Whatcom Chief returned to service Tuesday evening after an overnight equipment outage left Lummi Island residents without vehicular ferry access for nearly 24 hours.

Whatcom County Voters Have One Week Left to Pick Their Favorite "I Voted" Sticker Design

Whatcom County is holding an 'I Voted' sticker design contest open for public voting through May 29, 2026. Residents can cast their vote for their favorite design online.

Whatcom County Emergency Management Briefing: No Active Incidents, Drought Advisory Continues

Tuesday's Whatcom County emergency briefing reports no active incidents and no new advisories, though the statewide drought declared in April remains in effect for Whatcom County.

May 19, 2026

CBP Blaine Sector Hiring with $6.15 Billion in New Federal Funding

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is expanding its workforce with $6.15 billion in new funding, with the Blaine Sector offering positions along the Whatcom County border.

National Public Works Week Honors the People Keeping Whatcom County Running

National Public Works Week shines a light on the crews who maintain Whatcom County roads, bridges, stormwater systems, and the Lummi Island ferry -- often invisibly, around the clock.

Bellingham's Teddy Bear Cove Gets a Shoutout in Remarkably Bright Creatures

A local tide pool near Bellingham appears in the novel and film adaptation of Remarkably Bright Creatures. Teddy Bear Cove at Chuckanut Drive is a beloved low-tide destination for Whatcom County residents.

Whatcom Chief Ferry Service Suspended Through Tuesday Morning

Ferry service to Lummi Island was suspended Monday evening after an equipment issue at the Gooseberry Point dock left the 64-year-old Whatcom Chief offline.

Whatcom County Emergency Management Briefing: No Active Incidents, Drought Advisory Continues

Whatcom County's May 18 Emergency Management daily briefing shows no active incidents and no current advisories, though Washington State's April drought declaration for Whatcom County remains in effect.

Whatcom County Superior Court Opens New High-Tech Courtroom

Whatcom County Superior Court completed a new courtroom on the third floor of the County Courthouse, funded by the state to support the landmark WRIA 1 water adjudication.

May 18, 2026

That View From Western Washington University

Western Washington University sits on a hillside above Bellingham Bay, offering some of the most stunning natural views of any university campus in the Pacific Northwest.

May 17, 2026

Bellingham Public Library Children's Programs Continue Through Summer Break

Regular storytimes at Bellingham Public Library are on break until July, but family programs continue in the meantime. Check the online events calendar for a full listing of what's available at all branches.

Picture Lake and Artist Point Summer Season Approaching

Snow is still melting on the Mt. Baker Highway, but summer access to Picture Lake and Artist Point is coming. Here's what Whatcom County visitors should know before heading up the mountain.

May 16, 2026

Bellingham Fire Department Is Hiring for 2027 Academy

Bellingham Fire is building an eligibility list for the Entry Firefighter position. The NTN FireTeam testing window is now open for those interested in joining the January 2027 academy.

Friends of Bellingham Public Library Book Sale May 20–23

The Friends of the Bellingham Public Library May Book Sale runs May 20-23 at the Central Library, 210 Central Ave. Most books $2, all genres, with a half-price Friday and $5 bag sale Saturday.

Free Meet-a-Truck Event at Bellingham City Hall Thursday, May 21

Bellingham Parks and Recreation invites the community to check out public works construction vehicles up close at the annual free Meet-a-Truck event, Thursday May 21, 1-3 p.m. in front of City Hall on Lottie Street.

Ferndale Road Closure on Seamount Drive Tuesday, May 19

Drivers in Ferndale, WA should plan to detour around Seamount Drive between Vista and Malloy on Tuesday, May 19th, as the road will be closed to through traffic from 7 AM to 5 PM.

Expect Delays on Hannegan Road May 18–21

Whatcom County Public Works will perform crack sealing on Hannegan Road between E. Hemmi Road and E. Axton Road from Monday, May 18, through Thursday, May 21.

Whatcom County Emergency Briefing: Drought and Cascade Winter Advisory in Effect

Whatcom County Emergency Management reports no active EOC activation, but a winter weather advisory for the Cascades and an ongoing drought declaration remain in effect as of May 15.

May 15, 2026

Bellingham Library Renovation Fundraising Hits $2.5 Million Milestone

The Bellingham Central Library Renovation Fund has surpassed $2.5 million, reaching 70 percent of its $3.5 million goal after a record April of giving.

Bellingham Man Arrested for Vehicular Homicide After Fatal Crash at Axton Road

A Bellingham man was arrested on vehicular homicide and DUI charges after a stolen vehicle crash at West Axton Road and Northwest Avenue killed one person.

Free Meet-a-Truck Event Returns to Bellingham City Hall for Public Works Week

The City of Bellingham's annual free Meet-a-Truck event returns May 21 from 1 to 3 p.m. in front of City Hall on Lottie Street.

New Principal Named for Cordata Elementary After Leadership Transition

Erica Rasmussen has been named principal of Cordata Elementary for the 2026-27 school year, replacing Eva Chazo who is moving to the Nooksack Valley School District.

Whatcom County Opens Applications for 2027 Housing and Homelessness Funding

Whatcom County has issued an RFP for $14 million in annual housing and homelessness program funding as part of its new 2026-2030 five-year plan.

Win FIFA World Cup Tickets at the Fairhaven Festival This Weekend

Visit Bellingham is hosting a raffle at the Fairhaven Festival on May 24 for two tickets to the 2026 FIFA World Cup Belgium vs. Egypt match in Seattle.

May 14, 2026

Bellingham Public Library Celebrates APIDA Heritage Month with Staff Book Picks and Community Events

The Bellingham Public Library is marking Asian, Pacific Islander and Desi American Heritage Month in May with staff book recommendations, films, and programming featuring APIDA authors and experiences.

Free Tree Saplings at Farmers Market Saturday, Plus BIKE Bellingham's Treemendous Trees Ride Guide

Celebrate Bike Month with BIKE Bellingham's Treemendous Trees self-guided ride, and pick up a free tree sapling at the City of Bellingham's booth at the Farmers Market this Saturday, May 16.

Whatcom County Installing Protective Fencing Along Birch Bay Berm Starting May 18

Whatcom County Public Works will install additional protective fencing along the Birch Bay berm the week of May 18, from the Beach Cat area north to Harborview Road, to protect vegetation and reduce flood risk.

Birch Bay Summer Events 2026: Kite Festival, Sand Sculpture Competition, and Rollback Car Show

Birch Bay's summer event lineup is set for 2026, with the Kids Kite Festival June 20-21, the Sand Sculpture Competition August 1, and the Rollback Weekend Car Show August 2.

Whatcom County Emergency Briefing: Drought Continues, Unsettled Weather Ahead

Whatcom County's Emergency Management EOC is not activated, but a state drought declaration remains in effect. Here's Thursday's briefing with weather and advisory details.

WWU Low Rider Show Returns to Red Square This Sunday, May 17

The 'Ridin' Low in the 360' Low Rider Show returns to Western Washington University's Red Square on Sunday, May 17, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., organized by LMHE and MEChA de WWU.

May 13, 2026

Bellingham Schools 2026-27 Calendar Released: Weekly Thursday Early Dismissals for All Grades

Bellingham School District has released the 2026-27 school year calendar. Every Thursday will be an early dismissal day for all grade levels starting next fall.

BPD Weekly: Lummi Nation Walk, Murder Suspect Captured, and Assault on Harbor Loop

Bellingham police honored missing and murdered Indigenous women, helped catch a murder suspect, and responded to a serious assault on Harbor Loop in a busy week.

Port Commission Appoints Tiffany DeSimone as Executive Director

The Port of Bellingham Board of Commissioners has selected Tiffany DeSimone as the Port's next Executive Director after a national search drew nearly 100 candidates.

Ski to Sea Returns May 24: Final Countdown to Bellingham's Beloved Multi-Sport Race

Ski to Sea is just 11 days away. The iconic Whatcom County multi-sport relay finishes at Marine Park on May 24, with Fairhaven Village celebrating nearby.

Water Rights Adjudication Appointments: What Whatcom County Landowners Need to Know

The Washington Department of Ecology is offering one-on-one appointments at Edison Elementary in Bow on May 21 to help Whatcom County landowners navigate WRIA 1 water rights adjudication forms.

Whatcom County Emergency Briefing: Drought Watch and May Weather Outlook

Whatcom County's Emergency Management EOC remains inactive, but a state-declared drought continues. Here's the Tuesday briefing and what's in the forecast.

May 12, 2026

Whatcom Trivia: Bellingham Was Once Four Separate Cities Before Merging in 1903

Whatcom County's Trivia Mondays spotlight a fascinating piece of local history: Bellingham was once four distinct cities before consolidating in 1903. Do you know all four?

Additional Fencing Planned Along Birch Bay Berm Starting May 18

Whatcom County Public Works will install additional protective fencing along the Birch Bay berm the week of May 18, working from Beach Cat north to Harborview Road.

Bellingham Police and Whatcom County Honor Law Enforcement During National Police Week 2026

National Police Week runs May 10-16, 2026. Local agencies including BPD and the Whatcom County Sheriff's Office are observing the week to honor officers who gave their lives in the line of duty.

Bellingham Public Schools Celebrates 2026 Promise Award Recipients During Staff Appreciation Week

Bellingham Public Schools honored the 2026 Promise Award recipients during Staff Appreciation Week, recognizing outstanding staff and volunteers who embody The Bellingham Promise.

Ferndale Terrace Ribbon Cutting Today: Road Closes 10:30am for Improvement Project Celebration

Ferndale Terrace will close between Legoe Ave and Vista Dr roundabout Tuesday May 12 from 10:30am to 12:30pm as the city celebrates completion of the Ferndale Terrace Improvement Project.

WWU's Fraser Lecture Series to Feature Indigenous Knowledge, Storytelling, and Lived Experience

Western Washington University's Fraser Lecture Series will highlight Indigenous knowledge, experiences, wisdom, and storytelling in its upcoming programming, continuing WWU's commitment to amplifying Native voices.

May 11, 2026

Bellingham Fire Department Honors Firefighter Moms on Mother's Day 2026

The Bellingham Fire Department honored its firefighter mothers on Mother's Day 2026, thanking them for leading with courage, compassion, and selfless dedication every day.

Blaine Border Patrol Apprehends Honduran National With Criminal History Near Blaine, WA

On May 7, 2026, Blaine Border Patrol agents apprehended a Honduran national unlawfully present in the U.S. near Blaine, WA. He has prior arrests for DUI and assault with a dangerous weapon.

Bellingham Police Honors Mothers on Patrol, Dispatch, and Records This Mother's Day

The Bellingham Police Department recognized the moms working Mother's Day 2026 to keep Whatcom County safe, including officers on patrol, dispatchers, and records staff.

Mother's Day Weekend Views From Tennant Lake in Ferndale, WA

Bellingham Experience shared a stunning Mother's Day weekend photo from Tennant Lake in Ferndale, WA, taken by local photographer Angie Schulz.

May 10, 2026

Border Patrol Arrests Four Near Lynden, WA After Evasion Attempt

Border Patrol Targeted Enforcement Unit agents arrested three Mexican nationals and one Guatemalan national near Lynden, WA on May 7, 2026. One individual attempted to flee but was quickly detained.

May 9, 2026

Bellingham Promotes Bike Boxes and Two-Stage Turns During Bike Month 2026

The City of Bellingham is spotlighting bike boxes at intersections this May, showing cyclists a safer way to make left turns. Bike to Work and School Day is May 15.

Blaine Sector Arrests 10 Near Bellingham, Including 9 Vietnamese and 1 Canadian Citizen

The Blaine Targeting Unit arrested 9 Vietnamese citizens and 1 Canadian citizen near Bellingham, WA on May 5, 2026. All are detained pending removal proceedings.

BPD Closes I-5 and Sunset Bridge Deck During Mental Health Crisis; All Roads Reopened

Bellingham Police and Fire responded to a person in crisis near I-5 and Sunset on Friday, May 8, temporarily closing the Sunset Bridge deck and both directions of I-5.

Ferndale Man Fatally Shot Early Friday; Suspect Arrested in Sandy Point After Multi-Agency Manhunt

A man was fatally shot in the 2300 block of Ferndale Terrace in the early hours of Friday, May 8. A suspect was taken into custody hours later in Sandy Point.

Vote for Your Favorite Whatcom County "I Voted" Sticker Design by May 29

Whatcom County is running its first-ever 'I Voted' sticker design contest. Six finalists are up for public vote through May 29, 2026 at 4:30pm. Winning design announced June 1.

Whatcom County Sheriff's Deputies Campbell and Curtis Graduate from Corrections Officer Academy

Deputies Campbell and Curtis graduated from the WSCJTC Corrections Officer Academy Class 504. Deputy Curtis earned the highest overall score in the 400-hour program.

May 8, 2026

APIDA Festival Returns to Bellingham May 12 with Free Meal, Performances, and Vendors

The annual APIDA Heritage Festival takes place May 12 at Whatcom Community College's Syre Student Center. The free event runs 5:30-8pm and is open to all.

Border Patrol Arrests Guatemalan National Near Lynden, WA

The Blaine Sector Targeted Enforcement Unit arrested a Guatemalan citizen found illegally present in the U.S. near Lynden, WA on May 5, 2026. The individual faces removal proceedings.

Ferndale Issues Public Notice Over Unauthorized Environmental Damage at Cedar Creek Park

The City of Ferndale has issued a public notice warning residents about ongoing trespassing and unauthorized excavation damaging the Cedar Creek corridor, a protected critical area.

Whatcom Marine Resources Committee Launches Olympia Oyster Restoration in Drayton Harbor

The Whatcom MRC has deployed 200,000 baby Olympia oysters in Drayton Harbor, near Blaine WA, in a first-of-its-kind restoration project to revive Washington State's only native oyster species.

Free Water Rights Help at Everson Library This Week

Whatcom County is hosting free one-on-one water rights adjudication assistance at Everson Library on May 7. Technical experts will help residents complete court claim forms before the June 2027 deadline.

Whatcom County Under State Drought Declaration as Emergency Managers Report No Active Incidents

Whatcom County's Emergency Operations Center reports no active emergencies in the May 7 daily briefing, but a statewide drought declared by WA Ecology on April 8 continues to affect the county.

May 7, 2026

Blaine Border Patrol Arrests Man Near Bellingham in Targeted Enforcement Operation

Blaine Sector Border Patrol agents arrested a Mexican national illegally present in the U.S. near Bellingham on May 1, 2026 during a targeted enforcement operation.

200,000 Baby Olympia Oysters Deployed in Drayton Harbor Restoration Project

The Whatcom Marine Resources Committee has launched an Olympia oyster restoration project in Drayton Harbor, deploying 150 bags of native oyster cultch in partnership with state and local organizations.

Public Input Sought on Ranch Quarry Mine Environmental Review in Whatcom County

Whatcom County is in the scoping phase of an Environmental Impact Statement for the proposed Ranch Quarry Mine. A public online meeting is scheduled for May 13, 2026.

Whatcom Artist Studio Tour Launches First-Ever Spring Edition, May 16-17

The Whatcom Artist Studio Tour is adding a new spring event this year, featuring 25 artists at locations across Whatcom County on May 16 and 17, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Whatcom County to Certify April 28 Special Election Results on May 8

The Whatcom County Auditor's Office will certify results from the April 28, 2026 Special Election on Friday, May 8 at 11 a.m. at 311 Grand Avenue in Bellingham.

WWU Hosts Universal Design Workshop on May 22 to Explore Accessibility in Everyday Spaces

Western Washington University is hosting a Universal Design workshop on May 22, 2026, inviting participants to explore how accessibility principles shape built environments and daily life.

May 6, 2026

Bellingham Public Schools: No School May 15, Early Dismissals and Memorial Day Closures

Bellingham Public Schools reminds families of key May dates: no school May 15, early dismissals on May 14 and 21, and a Memorial Day closure on May 25.

Whatcom Chief Ferry Returns to Service After Steering Repairs

The Whatcom Chief ferry resumed full service Tuesday evening after a steering issue forced an unexpected outage on the Lummi Island run.

Whatcom County Emergency Briefing: Drought Declared, No Active Incidents

Whatcom County's Emergency Management daily briefing for May 5 shows no active incidents but flags a state-declared drought affecting the county.

WWU Student Launches App to Help People with ADHD Manage Daily Challenges

A Western Washington University Entrepreneurship and Innovation student fellow has launched an app designed to address one of the most common challenges facing people living with ADHD.

WWU Students Grow Thousands of Pounds of Produce at Birchwood's City Sprouts Farm

City Sprouts Farm, a WWU program in Bellingham's Birchwood neighborhood, produces four to five tons of vegetables each year through a sliding-scale CSA and food pantry distribution.

May 5, 2026

Bellingham Schools Superintendent Shares Radio Interview on Facilities Planning Task Force

Superintendent Greg Baker shared a KMRE radio interview discussing the Bellingham School District's facilities planning task force, which may recommend repurposing school sites or reconfiguring attendance areas.

Lummi Island Ferry Faces Limited Service After Steering Issue at Gooseberry Point

The Lummi Island Ferry experienced a steering issue Monday evening at Gooseberry Point terminal. Limited service resumed overnight but remains limited Tuesday morning as crews await a replacement part.

Delays Expected on Marine Drive Near Lindbergh Avenue Tuesday for Bridge Inspection

Single-lane closures on Marine Drive near Lindbergh Avenue on Tuesday, May 5 from 8:30-11:30 a.m. for a routine biennial bridge inspection. Flaggers will direct alternating traffic.

Whatcom County Youth Showing Steady Improvements in Mental Health and Substance Use, Survey Finds

The 2025 Healthy Youth Survey shows Whatcom County youth feeling less anxious and depressed, with declining rates of drug, tobacco, and alcohol use. Improvements have held since 2021.

WWU Men's Rugby Wins D1AA National Championship in Indianapolis

Western Washington University's Men's Rugby team claimed the 2026 CRAA D1AA 15s National Championship in Indianapolis, defeating Millennia Atlantic University en route to the title.

May 4, 2026

Bellingham Parks Invites Residents to Community Garden Work Parties This May

Bellingham Parks and Recreation is hosting free Wednesday evening community garden work parties throughout May at Lakeway, King Mountain, Sven Hoyt, and Fairhaven community gardens. Registration required.

Spring Evening at Zuanich Point Park: Kites, Boats, Blooms, and Bellingham Bay Views

Zuanich Point Park at Squalicum Harbor offers one of Bellingham's best spring evening destinations, with kite flying, boat watching, and sweeping views of Bellingham Bay.

May 3, 2026

The Portal Container Village and Trackside Beer Garden Are Back for Summer 2026

The Portal Container Village and Kulshan Brewing's Trackside Beer Garden reopened May 1 for the 2026 season, bringing food, bikes, mini golf, and cold beer back to Bellingham's Downtown Waterfront.

Candidate Filing Week Opens Monday in Whatcom County -- Here's How to Run for Office

Candidate Filing Week for the 2026 election cycle runs May 4-8 in Whatcom County. Anyone wishing to run for local office can file online starting 8 a.m. Monday.

May 2, 2026

Bellingham Fire's Salish Star Brings Marine Career Inspiration to 150 Students at Blue Tech by the Bay

The Bellingham Fire Department's Salish Star crew joined students from 15 schools at Squalicum Harbor, giving nearly 150 high schoolers a hands-on look at marine firefighting careers.

Mother's Day in Bellingham: Brunches, Whale Watching, Big Rock Garden, and More This Weekend

Mother's Day is May 10 and Bellingham is ready. From brunch at B-Town Kitchen to whale watching with San Juan Cruises and live music at Big Rock Garden Park, here's how to celebrate.

Ski to Sea 2026 Is Coming -- And It Needs 500 Volunteers to Pull It Off

Ski to Sea needs 500-plus volunteers to run Whatcom County's largest community event. Volunteers get a T-shirt, lunch, and the satisfaction of being part of a 50-year Bellingham tradition.

Whatcom County Under State Drought Declaration as Water Supply Falls Below Normal

Washington State declared a drought covering Whatcom County on April 8, 2026. Water supply is below 75% of normal following a warm, low-snowpack winter.

Whatcom Museum Celebrates Three Years of LEGO Festival at Free First Friday -- Including Live Masters Contestants

The Whatcom Museum's third annual Free First Friday LEGO Festival spans both museum locations with building contests, live music, and gallery tours. Free admission all ages.

WWU's Laurie Trautman to Brief State Transportation Commission on Cross-Border Trade May 19

Laurie Trautman of Western Washington University's Border Policy Research Institute will brief state transportation officials on the economic importance of US-Canada cross-border trade.

May 1, 2026

Bellingham Lands $630,000 Grant to Launch EV Carshare Co-op for Low-Income Residents

The City of Bellingham is moving forward with a pilot program to put electric vehicles within reach of low-income residents after landing a $630,000 grant

Bellingham School District Sets the Record Straight on Bond History, Task Force Work, and Elections

The Bellingham School District is responding to what it describes as disinformation circulating about past bond elections, facilities task force recommenda

Candidate Filing Week Opens May 4 in Whatcom County -- Here's How to Run for Office

If you have been thinking about running for local office in Whatcom County, the window to make it official opens next Monday. Candidate Filing Week runs fr

Ferndale Drivers: Expect One-Way Traffic Saturday Morning for Community Clean-Up Day

Drivers passing through downtown Ferndale on Saturday should plan for slower going. The City of Ferndale is restricting two key stretches of roadway to one

Whatcom County Sheriff's Office Honors Jason Gum After 30-Year Law Enforcement Career

The Whatcom County Sheriff's Office marked the end of an extraordinary public safety career on Wednesday, April 30, 2026, as Chief Criminal Deputy Jason Gu

WWU Graduate Student Develops Methods to Detect Toxic Chemicals in Food and the Environment

A chemistry graduate student at Western Washington University is working to improve the tools scientists use to detect toxic chemical compounds in fruits,

April 30, 2026

Bellingham Fire Department Celebrates Two Promotions and Five New Paramedics

The Bellingham Fire Department promoted two officers to Captain and Division Chief and pinned five new paramedics in a ceremony at Station 1.

Ranch Quarry Mine Near Sumas Triggers Environmental Review -- Public Comments Open Through May 29

Whatcom County opens a 30-day public comment period on the proposed Ranch Quarry open-pit rock mine near Sumas, WA. Comments due May 29, 2026.

Free Water Rights Help Sessions Available in Lynden and Everson Next Week

Whatcom County is hosting free one-on-one WRIA 1 water rights court claim assistance sessions in Lynden on May 6 and Everson on May 7. Claims due June 1, 2027.

Whatcom County Auditor Seeks Volunteers to Write Voters' Pamphlet Statements for August Election

The Whatcom County Auditor's Office needs volunteers to write for and against statements for fire district levy measures on the August 4, 2026 Primary ballot.

Whatcom County Holds Public Hand Count of April 28 Special Election Ballots Today

Whatcom County election workers will manually count six randomly selected ballot batches from the April 28 Special Election today at 10 AM at 311 Grand Avenue.

Whatcom County Drug Task Force Case Expands into Human Trafficking Federal Charges

A narcotics investigation by the Whatcom Regional Drug Task Force grew into a federal human trafficking and sex crimes case, leading to two arrests.

April 28, 2026

Bellingham Public Schools Promise Highlights: Student Musicians Head to State, More

Bellingham Public Schools musicians head to state competitions, Roosevelt fourth graders explore physics through archery, Silver Beach kindergartners build bird nests, and more in this week's Promise Highlights.

Bellingham Police Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting in Maple Falls

SWAT team responds to Kendall Road property in Maple Falls to apprehend two suspects wanted in a Ferndale shooting. One suspect killed, one arrested.

Old Town Bellingham Streetscape Construction Ramps Up This Summer

Construction is underway on C, D, E, and Astor Streets in Bellingham's Old Town Urban Village. Expect delays on Holly Street through summer 2026.

Whatcom County Community Conversations Q&A Event Scheduled May 7 at Fairhaven Library

Whatcom County Councilmembers Barry Buchanan, Kaylee Galloway, and Jon Scanlon will hold a Community Conversations Q&A at the Fairhaven Library May 7 from 3-5pm.

WWU Cyber Defense Team Claims Third Place at National Cybersecurity Competition

Western Washington University's Cyber Defense Team finished third in the nation at the NCCDC in April 2026, the program's best national finish since 2014.

WWU Students Design and Install Sustainable Infrastructure on Bellingham's Waterfront

Ten Western Washington University students returned from Denmark with new ideas and installed sustainable infrastructure along Bellingham's waterfront as part of a design practicum.

April 27, 2026

An Incredible Sight on Bellingham Bay: Locals Capture Stunning Sunset

Bellingham Bay delivered another breathtaking sunset this week, captured beautifully by local photographer Jesse Childers. Here's why Bellingham's waterfront sunsets are world-class.

Bellingham's Procession of the Species Returns May 2: How to Join the Parade

Bellingham's beloved Procession of the Species festival is back on May 2, 2026. Parade from Bellingham High School to Maritime Heritage Park, free for all ages. Here's everything you need to know.

April 26, 2026

NW Washington Fair Returns to Lynden August 13-22: Ticket Blitz on May 8, Concerts Announced

The Northwest Washington Fair is returning to Lynden August 13-22, 2026, with a Ticket Blitz on May 8 offering discounted gate admission and grandstand concerts featuring Ja Rule, Fat Joe, and Stone Temple Pilots.

Whatcom Sheriff Deputies Collect Medications at Birch Bay Library for DEA Take Back Day

Whatcom County Sheriff's Office deputies staffed a DEA Take Back Day collection site at the Birch Bay Library on April 25, accepting unused prescription medications for safe disposal.

Whatcom County Sheriff Hosts DEA Drug Take Back Day at Kendall and Birch Bay Libraries

The Whatcom County Sheriff's Office partnered with the DEA's National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on April 25, collecting unused medications at Kendall Library and Birch Bay Library from 10am to 2pm.

April 25, 2026

Severance Creator Coming to WWU, Spring Wine Walk Returns Downtown: Bellingham Events Worth Marking

Two events worth circling on the calendar if you live in Bellingham: the creator of one of television's most talked-about dramas is coming home to Western

Bellingham Officers Trade Snacks for Surrender in Surprisingly Adorable K-9 Call

The Bellingham Police Department deployed additional officers and a K-9 unit to a scene this week, which on paper sounds like a serious situation. In pract

Old Samish Road Closes Monday for Year-Long Fish Passage Project Near Chuckanut Creek

South Whatcom County drivers will need to find alternate routes starting Monday morning, when Old Samish Road closes to through traffic near Chuckanut Cree

FEMA Teams Work Sumas Flood Claims as Whatcom County Enters Sunny, Dry Weekend

Whatcom County heads into the weekend with no active emergency incidents, a stretch of sunny weather on tap, and FEMA representatives actively working with

Whatcom County Salutes Over 200 Search and Rescue Volunteers During National Volunteer Week

During National Volunteer Week, the Whatcom County Sheriff's Office is putting a spotlight on one of the county's most vital and least visible resources: t

It's National Work Zone Awareness Week: Whatcom County Roads Demand Extra Attention This Spring

This week is National Work Zone Awareness Week, and Whatcom County Public Works is using the moment to remind drivers of something that holds true year-rou

April 24, 2026

Bellingham Public Schools Celebrates 2026 Promise Award Recipients

Bellingham Public Schools announced its 2026 Promise Award honorees, celebrating outstanding staff and volunteers across seven categories including Above and Beyond Service.

Drug Take Back Day This Saturday: Drop Off Unused Medications in Whatcom County

The DEA's National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is Saturday, April 25, from 10am to 2pm. Whatcom County Sheriff collection sites at Birch Bay and North Fork Libraries.

Procession of the Species Returns to Downtown Bellingham on May 2

Bellingham's beloved Procession of the Species parade and festival returns Saturday, May 2, from 2-5 p.m. Parade begins at Lee Memorial Park and ends at Maritime Heritage Park.

Ski to Sea Returns to Bellingham on Memorial Day Weekend 2026

The Ski to Sea race is less than a month away, with Zuanich Point Park in Bellingham as a top spectator spot. Hundreds of teams compete in this multisport Memorial Day weekend tradition.

Whatcom County Council Weighs $225M Budget Cap for New Jail and Behavioral Health Center

Whatcom County Council is drafting a $225 million budget cap to guide design of a new therapeutic jail and behavioral crisis center, as tensions grow over what the project can afford.

Whatcom County Reminds Drivers: Slow Down in Work Zones During National Awareness Week

Whatcom County Public Works is marking National Work Zone Awareness Week with a reminder that most work zone fatalities are drivers, not road crews. Slow down and stay alert.

WWU Cyber Defense Team Wins Regional Championship for First Time in 12 Years

Western Washington University's cyber defense team claimed first place at the 2026 Pacific Rim Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition, beating UW and Oregon State to earn a spot at nationals.

April 23, 2026

Bellingham Earth Week 2026: Stream Restoration, Hard-to-Recycle Drop-Off, and More

The City of Bellingham and Bellingham Public Library are hosting a full week of Earth Day events including stream restoration at Squalicum Creek, electronics recycling, and children's storytimes.

Bellingham Schools Superintendent Updates Community on Facilities Planning Task Force

Bellingham School District Superintendent Greg Baker updates the community on a facilities planning task force addressing declining enrollment and responsible building use decisions.

Downtown Bellingham Windows Bloom With Floral Pop-Up Displays Ahead of First Friday

Local florist Adina Salinger of Tangled Roots Floral is decorating downtown Bellingham windows with floral displays through the North Sound Flower Coop's Bellingham Blooms project, with more coming May 1.

Whatcom County Emergency Briefing: FEMA in Sumas, Drought Declared, Volcano Awareness

Wednesday's Whatcom County emergency management briefing covers FEMA flood assistance in Sumas, a statewide drought declaration, and clear-sky volcano awareness for Mt. Baker.

Scammers Using AI to Send Fake Permit Invoices With Whatcom County Logos

Whatcom County and the City of Ferndale are warning residents about sophisticated AI-powered scammers sending fake permit invoices impersonating county planning staff.

Whatcom County Receives "C" Grade for Air Quality as Wildfire Smoke Impacts Persist

A new national report gives Whatcom County a C grade for 24-hour particle pollution due to wildfire smoke, while awarding an A for ozone. Local air monitors had significant equipment failures.

April 22, 2026

Bellingham Launches Home Share Program With Licensed Social Worker Support

The City of Bellingham has partnered with Nesterly to connect homeowners who have spare bedrooms with renters seeking long-term housing in Whatcom County.

Bellingham Public Library Hosts Free Bike Maintenance Workshop April 23

Whatcom Smart Trips is bringing a free bike maintenance workshop to the Bellingham Public Library's Central Branch on Thursday, April 23 from 4 to 5:45 p.m.

Bicyclist Airlifted After I-5 Crash Near Lake Samish

A bicyclist was flown to Harborview Medical Center with life-threatening injuries Tuesday after a multi-vehicle crash closed northbound I-5 near Lake Samish.

Whatcom County Kicks Off National Work Zone Awareness Week

Whatcom County Public Works joins a national campaign to remind drivers to slow down, stay alert, and protect road workers as construction season begins.

Whatcom County Sheriff Honors CERT Volunteers During National Volunteer Week

The Whatcom County Sheriff's Office is recognizing volunteer groups that support community preparedness, starting with the Community Emergency Response Team.

Meet Xena: Whatcom County Sheriff Adds New Contraband Detection Dog

The Whatcom County Sheriff's Office has welcomed a new four-legged team member, Xena, trained in contraband detection to support law enforcement operations.

April 21, 2026

FEMA Opens Disaster Assistance Center in Sumas Starting April 22 for Whatcom County Flood Survivors

FEMA workers have arrived in Whatcom County and will open a Disaster Assistance Center at Sumas Advent Christian Church starting Wednesday, April 22, serving December 2025 flood survivors.

Lummi Island Ferry Punch Card Sale Today, April 21 — Island-Side Terminal 5:40am to 2:40pm

The Whatcom County Ferry Division is holding a multi-ride punch card sale and exchange at the Lummi Island ferry terminal today, April 21, from 5:40am to 2:40pm. Next dates: May 13 and June 3.

Lynden School District 504 Ballot Due April 28 — Mail Today or Drop Box by 8pm

Ballots for the Lynden School District 504 April Special Election are due by 8pm on April 28. The US Postal Service recommends mailing today, April 21, for on-time delivery.

New Very Strong Sedative Detected in Washington State's Illegal Drug Supply

Whatcom County health officials are warning about medetomidine, a powerful veterinary sedative appearing in the illegal drug supply mixed with fentanyl. Narcan does not work on this new substance.

South Bay Trail Section to Close Imminently for Fairhaven Center Development, May Last Two Years

A section of Bellingham's South Bay Trail is closing this week for the Fairhaven Center development at Mill Ave and 11th Street. The closure may last up to two years. An alternate walking route runs along 11th Street.

WWU College of the Environment Launches Gear Lending Library to Open Fieldwork to All Students

Western Washington University's College of the Environment has launched a Gear Lending Library, removing cost barriers to field learning by lending outdoor and scientific gear to students at no charge.

April 19, 2026

Bellingham Fire Department Reminds Residents to Clear Debris as Wildfire Season Approaches

Bellingham Fire Department is urging residents to clear dry leaves and debris from around their homes to reduce wildfire risk as warmer weather arrives in

Dirty Dan Murder Mystery Weekend Returns to Fairhaven April 25-26 with New Story, Clues Across 20+ Locations

Dirty Dan Murder Mystery Weekend returns to Historic Fairhaven Village April 25-26, 2026, with a new whodunit storyline and clues hidden at 20+ locations t

Fun with the Fuzz 5K Draws Runners Through Bellingham Neighborhoods, Temporary Traffic Impacts Saturday

The annual Fun with the Fuzz 5K run through Bellingham's streets raised money for the Behind the Badge Foundation on April 19, 2026.

April 18, 2026

Bellingham Named Official FIFA World Cup 2026 Fan Zone, Watch Parties Planned for June and July

Bellingham is one of nine official FIFA World Cup 2026 fan zone cities in Washington State, with events and watch parties planned for June and July.

Blaine Border Patrol Unit Assists ICE in Whatcom County Arrest of Previously Removed Mexican National

The Blaine Targeting Unit assisted ERO Seattle in arresting a Mexican national in Whatcom County on April 13 with prior DUI and multiple prior removals.

City of Bellingham Marks Fair Housing Month with Film Screening and Rental Law Workshop

Bellingham is hosting a free Decade of Fire film screening April 22 and a rental law info session April 28 for Fair Housing Month.

All Whatcom County Beaches Closed to Shellfish Harvest Due to Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning

Unsafe levels of paralytic shellfish poisoning biotoxin detected in Whatcom County. All recreational shellfish harvesting closed countywide.

Federal Disaster Declaration Approved for December 2025 Whatcom County Floods; Weekend Weather Looks Dry

Washington State received a federal disaster declaration for the December 2025 Whatcom County floods. Weekend weather looks clear; showers return by Tuesda

What-Comm 911 and Prospect Fire Dispatch Honored During National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week

The City of Bellingham honored What-Comm 911 and Prospect Fire dispatchers during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.

April 17, 2026

Blaine Border Patrol Unit Arrests Mexican National Near Everson with Prior Removals

The Blaine Targeted Enforcement Unit arrested a Mexican citizen near Everson, WA on April 13. The individual has prior arrests for hit and run and driving

I-5 Northbound Fully Reopened: City of Bellingham Reflects on Month-Long Closure

Northbound I-5 is back open after a nearly month-long closure following a March 19 landslide south of Bellingham. The City of Bellingham thanked WSDOT and

WCSO Arrests California Man in $1 Million Fraud Scheme Targeting Whatcom County Seniors

Xiaobin Zhou, 56, of California was arrested and booked into Whatcom County Jail on April 15 after a 10-month investigation revealed he defrauded at least

Clams and Oysters Sold in Whatcom County Recalled Due to Norovirus Risk

Whatcom County Health confirms five local residents became ill after eating recalled oysters sold at the Community Food Co-op and served at two Bellingham

Free Help Available for Whatcom County Landowners Navigating Water Rights Adjudication

Whatcom County Public Works and water rights experts are hosting drop-in and appointment sessions across Whatcom County through June to help property owner

WWU Students and Professor Headed to World Boomerang Championships in Indonesia This Summer

A Western Washington University marketing professor, a current sophomore, and a recent alum will represent the United States at the 2026 World Boomerang Ch

April 16, 2026

Bellingham Earth Week 2026: Storytimes, Creek Restoration, E-Waste Drop-Off, and More

<p>Earth Week is underway in Bellingham, and the City of Bellingham has lined up a series of community events designed to connect residents with the enviro

Seven BPD Officers Complete Mountain Bike Police Cyclist Course

<p>The Bellingham Police Department expanded its bicycle patrol capability this week, graduating seven officers from the Police Cyclist Course offered by t

Debbie Arthur Appointed as Whatcom County's Second Deputy Executive

<p>Whatcom County now has two deputy executives for the first time, following the Whatcom County Council's confirmation of Debbie Arthur as the county's se

Future Women in EMS and Fire Workshop Returns to Bellingham, May 2-3

<p>Bellingham Fire Department is hosting the return of the Future Women in EMS and Fire Workshop on May 2 and 3, 2026, a two-day career exploration event d

I-5 Northbound Reopens After Month-Long Closure Near Bellingham

<p>After nearly four weeks of emergency stabilization work, northbound Interstate 5 south of Bellingham reopened this morning, April 16, 2026, restoring a

Federal Disaster Declaration and Drought: Whatcom County Emergency Briefing April 15

<p>Whatcom County's Division of Emergency Management issued its daily briefing for Wednesday, April 15, 2026, with two significant background items shaping

April 15, 2026

Bellingham Public Schools Early Dismissal April 16 and 23

All Bellingham Public Schools will have early dismissal on Thursday, April 16 and Thursday, April 23. Elementary schools dismiss at 12:20 p.m., middle schools at 1:15 p.m., and high schools at 2 p.m.

Bellingham Fire Department Honors 911 Dispatchers During National Telecommunicators Week

Bellingham Fire Department is recognizing 911 telecommunicators during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, April 12-18, 2026, honoring the dispatchers who coordinate every emergency response.

Whatcom County Emergency Briefing: Winter Storm Warning, Federal Flood Disaster Declaration

A winter storm warning covers eastern Whatcom County through Wednesday evening, and Washington State is moving toward a federal disaster declaration for December 2025 flooding.

Whatcom County Launches Justice Project Data Tracking Site

Whatcom County launched a new data tracking site for the voter-approved Justice Project, offering public transparency on criminal justice and behavioral health outcomes.

Free WRIA 1 Water Rights Help Available at Blaine Library Thursday

Whatcom County residents with WRIA 1 water rights claim forms due June 2027 can get free one-on-one help from technical experts at the Blaine Public Library on Thursday, April 16.

WWU's Makerspace Opens Doors to All Majors, Fueling Creativity Across Campus

Western Washington University's Makerspace is now open to students from all majors, offering access to 3D printers, laser cutters, sewing machines, and more to spark cross-disciplinary innovation on campus.

April 14, 2026

Ferndale City Council Committee Meeting Scheduled This Week

The City of Ferndale has scheduled a City Council Committee meeting this week. Full agenda details are available through the city's website.

Northbound I-5 Near Bellingham Set to Reopen Thursday After Month-Long Landslide Closure

After nearly a month of landslide stabilization work, WSDOT expects to reopen northbound I-5 south of Bellingham by 5 a.m. Thursday, April 16.

Bellingham Police Honor Dispatchers During National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week

Bellingham Police Chief Rebecca Mertzig and the Whatcom County Sheriff are honoring dispatchers during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week 2026.

Whatcom County Issues Winter Storm Warning; Federal Disaster Declaration Coming for December Floods

A winter storm warning covers eastern Whatcom County through Tuesday evening, and Washington State is moving toward a federal disaster declaration for Dece

Whatcom County Public Works Begins Annual Road Shoulder Herbicide Spraying

Whatcom County Public Works has started its annual herbicide program covering roughly 250 miles of county roads. Property owners can opt out by signing an

Western Washington University's John Farquhar Retiring After 27 Years in Academic Technology

John Farquhar, head of Western Washington University's Academic Technology and User Services, will retire April 30 after 27 years with the university.

April 13, 2026

Little Squalicum Beach Is Worth a Spring Visit

Little Squalicum Beach in Bellingham offers a 24-acre park, the longest public pier in Washington state, an off-leash dog area, and easy access to Bellingham Bay.

April 12, 2026

Spring Is the Perfect Excuse to Visit Hovander Homestead Park in Ferndale

Hovander Homestead Park in Ferndale offers picnics, bird watching, mountain views, and colorful gardens across nearly 350 acres along the Nooksack River.

Bellingham Parks to Close 700 Feet of Maritime Heritage Park Trail for Erosion Work

Bellingham Parks and Recreation will close and decommission 700 feet of the Maritime Heritage Park Whatcom Estuary lower trail the week of April 13-17 to address erosion and safety concerns.

March 29, 2026

Five Bellingham Firefighters Earn Paramedic Certification After 18 Months of Training

The Bellingham Fire Department announces five firefighters have earned Advanced Life Support certification in Whatcom County after an 18-month training program.

Bellingham Border Patrol Assists in Arrest of Venezuelan National Sought for Homicide in Colombia

Bellingham Border Patrol agents assisted ERO Seattle in arresting Angel Izarra-Martinez near Seattle on March 20. He carries an active Colombian government arrest warrant for homicide and drug trafficking.

Fun With the Fuzz 5K Returns April 18 to Honor Fallen Officers

The Fun With the Fuzz 5K returns to Bellingham on April 18, starting and finishing at the Bellingham Police Department. All proceeds benefit Behind the Badge Foundation.

Northbound I-5 Remains Closed Near Bellingham After Mudslide; Detours in Effect

Northbound I-5 remains closed near Bellingham after last week's mudslide at North Lake Samish. WSDOT crews are working to clear debris; detour routes via SR 9 and SR 11 are in effect.

Whatcom County Picks Hannegan Road as New Jail Site, Estimating Up to $2.5 Million in Savings

Whatcom County has entered a tentative agreement to purchase a 19-acre property at 4160 Hannegan Road as the new jail site, replacing the long-problematic La Bounty Drive location.

Whatcom Drug Task Force Busts Seattle Fentanyl Trafficking Operation, Seizes Over 741 Grams

The Whatcom Regional Drug Task Force and DEA arrested two Seattle men after search warrants uncovered over 741 grams of fentanyl and other drugs tied to Whatcom County trafficking.

March 28, 2026

Bellingham Farmers Market Returns Next Saturday, April 4

The Bellingham Farmers Market opens its 2026 season at Depot Market Square on April 4. Over 100 vendors, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., every Saturday through year-end.

Port of Bellingham Marks Milestone: Toxic Metals Cleared from Harris Avenue Shipyard

Washington State Department of Ecology crews have finished removing toxic heavy metals from the upland portion of the Harris Avenue Shipyard, clearing about five acres of contaminated soil.

Highway 20 Still Closed at Diablo Lake; No Reopening Date

Highway 20 remains closed at milepost 130 near Diablo Lake following a rockfall. WSDOT says cleanup and stabilization will take an extensive amount of time with no estimated reopening date.

March 12, 2026

Court Claim Form Deadline Extended to June 1, 2027

No Bones About It: Libraries displays new skeleton model for student research use

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Ferndale Police Respond to Brandishing Report on Portal Way

Wednesday, March 11, 2026 Emergency Management Daily Briefing for Whatcom County

Western staffer takes sabbatical in Aotearoa New Zealand

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