We've moved! Bellingham Field Office moves to new location

The Department of Ecology's Bellingham Field Office (BFO) has changed locations. Ecology's northernmost office has moved from its Fairhaven location to a new building closer to the center of Bellingham along Squalicum Way. The lease on the Fairhaven property was expiring, which gave the agency an opportunity to make a change that would reduce costs. BFO had been based in Fairhaven for the last 10 years after moving from downtown Bellingham.

"While the Fairhaven was nice and served us well," said Doug Allen, manager of the Bellingham Field Office, "the new office location has different amenities, including being sited adjacent to Squalicum Creek Park. The new building is laid out more efficiently, which reduces costs and will help us continue to serve the department and the public effectively in the northern counties."

The office features a large meeting space, two smaller conference rooms, a lab for samples and a large garage that will fit two Ecology vehicles. The new location includes storage for field gear and research equipment and spill response vehicles and boats. Previously, spill response equipment was stored miles from the office due to lack of space; which lengthened response time.

The facility also has onsite bike storage and electric car charging stations. Squalicum Park provides walkways, access to trails, and recreation opportunities. It is also a short distance from Bellingham Harbor.

Though the new space is smaller, it is laid out more efficiently and will allow room for additional staff. The lease rate at the new facility is a savings of over $100,000 per year. Allsop Inc. owns the building and is using the second floor, while Ecology rents the first floor.

The Bellingham Field Office's new address is:

913 Squalicum Way #101
Bellingham, WA 98225

Note that all phone numbers for the BFO staff have also changed. If you need assistance or additional directions, contact reception at 360-255-4400.