LOCAL NEWS

Mess left by climate change activists in Anacortes isn’t the first

May 16, 2016, 9:14 AM | Updated: 11:56 am

Trash from a protest over climate change was left scattered along BNSF track. (KIRO 7)...

Trash from a protest over climate change was left scattered along BNSF track. (KIRO 7)

(KIRO 7)

Protesters demanding action on climate change in Anacortes over the weekend left quite the mess.

The Anacortes Police Department confirmed the trash along the BNSF track was left behind from the protest held over the weekend, KIRO 7 reports. However, it is unclear if it was left intentionally or on accident.

It’s possible the trash was left behind as law enforcement arrested 52 people, Anacortes Police spokesperson Lou D’Amelia told KIRO 7. But Facebook users say otherwise. One user pointed out on the activist’s Facebook page – Break Free PNW – that the “people on the tracks were given ample time and warning to remove themselves and their garbage…”

Whether it was on purpose or accident is up for speculation. What isn’t left to speculation is that it isn’t the first time people protesting large oil companies have left a mess.

In May of 2015, activists – or kayaktivists – protesting Shell oil and the impacts drilling has on the environment left behind material used to anchor their protest barge in a popular Seattle dive park. “The People’s Platform,” which was parked over the dive park near Seacrest Park, was moved. However, divers later found cement blocks, cables, and chains strewn about the popular spot that octopuses frequent.

Local News

King County Regional Homelessness Authority KCRHA 5-year plan...

L.B. Gilbert

KCRHA approves 5-year plan to address homelessness

The King County Regional Homeless Authority (KCRHA) unanimously voted Thursday to approve its new 5-year plan, which includes $250M for 2024.

12 hours ago

Don Bonker...

Bill Kaczaraba

Former Congressman Don Bonker remembered as a ‘peacemaker’

Known as a "peacemaker," former U.S. Representative Don Bonker, who represented Washington’s 3rd District from 1975-89, has died.

12 hours ago

queen anne road...

L.B. Gilbert

Utility company damages Queen Anne Ave, partially closing road

A private utility crew damaged a tunnel under a busy block of Queen Anne Avenue, and the road is partially shut down.

12 hours ago

muti-day fire lacey mushroom...

L.B. Gilbert

12-year-old arrested in connection to fire at Lacey mushroom farm

Lacey firefighters are looking at a multi-day fight against a fire that broke out Wednesday at an abandoned mushroom farm.

12 hours ago

(Photo from KIRO 7)...

Deedee Sun, KIRO 7 News

Two Northshore elementary principals on leave after alleged cocaine use

High on cocaine with a loaded gun – that’s what Redmond police say they saw when they confronted a local elementary school principal at a QFC.

12 hours ago

garfield high school threat...

Lisa Brooks

Garfield High School switches to remote learning Friday after threat

A threat in the area of Garfield High School in Seattle Thursday prompted the school's principal to dismiss classes early.

12 hours ago

Sponsored Articles

Men's Health Month...

Men’s Health Month: Why It’s Important to Speak About Your Health

June is Men’s Health Month, with the goal to raise awareness about men’s health and to encourage men to speak about their health.

Internet Washington...

Major Internet Upgrade and Expansion Planned This Year in Washington State

Comcast is investing $280 million this year to offer multi-gigabit Internet speeds to more than four million locations.

Compassion International...

Brock Huard and Friends Rally Around The Fight for First Campaign

Professional athletes are teaming up to prevent infant mortality and empower women at risk in communities facing severe poverty.

Emergency Preparedness...

Prepare for the next disaster at the Emergency Preparedness Conference

Being prepared before the next emergency arrives is key to preserving businesses and organizations of many kinds.

SHIBA volunteer...

Volunteer to help people understand their Medicare options!

If you’re retired or getting ready to retire and looking for new ways to stay active, becoming a SHIBA volunteer could be for you!

safety from crime...

As crime increases, our safety measures must too

It's easy to be accused of fearmongering regarding crime, but Seattle residents might have good reason to be concerned for their safety.

Mess left by climate change activists in Anacortes isn’t the first