2011: The Ballard Locks

           I remember first visiting, marveling at the beautiful flowers greeting me as I entered the gardens. Between watching the boats sail by, relaxing on the lawn along the bank, and seeing salmon up close swimming with all their might, I thoroughly enjoyed what was and still is a unique part of what makes this city so vibrant.

           The Ballard Locks are located in the middle of Salmon Bay, just south of the Ballard neighborhood. Officially called the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, they are operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, named after the Major who was the Seattle District Engineer from 1906-1908. The locks were added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978.

            The project began in 1911, to efficiently connect the Ship Canal waterways of Lake Washington and Lake Union with the Puget Sound. In addition to assisting boaters, the locks prevent saltwater intrusion, and a 6-gate spillway assists in maintaining the water level of the freshwater lakes. Like an elevator, Boats heading out to sea are lowered to match the level of the Sound. When they are ready to return, the locks bring them back up into fresh water again. The two locks (30x150ft and 80x825ft) allow vessels small and wide to enter. In addition, A 21 step fish ladder was built alongside to allow salmon to continue their life cycle. Young salmon swim down the ladder and into the Puget Sound. When they are ready to spawn, the mature salmon swim back up. The educational viewing area allows visitors to learn about these important Pacific Northwest creatures, and you can observe them in the glass panel viewing area. Outside the locks, you can stroll through the Carl S. English, Jr. Botanical Garden, which features many beautiful and exotic species of plants. Admission to all of the above is free, with more information and exhibits available in the Visitor's Center. Hours are 7am to 9pm year round.

              For the past century, this engineering marvel has stood as the gateway from the Sound to the Emerald City’s most popular waterways. Visiting the locks is an experience that should rank near the top of any sightseeing list. This holiday season, may this ornament help you to fondly recall and celebrate this Ballard attraction, or if you haven’t been, to unlock a new adventure that is waiting for you to see .

                                                                                                                          Chris Harris, Writer