description Commencement Bay Overview
Commencement Bay is a deep-water inlet located at the southern terminus of Puget Sound in Washington state. It is fed by the Puyallup River and is highly industrialized, serving as the home of the Port of Tacoma, one of the largest container ports on the West Coast of the United States. Due to decades of industrial activity, the waterway was designated as a Superfund site by the EPA to address extensive sediment contamination. Extensive environmental remediation efforts have since been implemented to restore the bay's marine ecosystem.
help Commencement Bay FAQ
Where is Commencement Bay and which river flows into it?
Commencement Bay is the southernmost inlet of Puget Sound in Washington State. The Puyallup River empties into the bay near Tacoma.
Why is Commencement Bay important to Tacoma shipping?
The bay is home to the Port of Tacoma, a major container and bulk cargo port. Its deep-water access connects the Tacoma area with Pacific shipping routes.
What environmental problem is associated with Commencement Bay?
The bay has a long history of industrial pollution from shipping, manufacturing, and other waterfront uses. Cleanup work has focused on contaminated sediments and habitats around the industrial shoreline.
Is Commencement Bay the same place as Elliott Bay in Seattle?
No. Commencement Bay is beside Tacoma, while Elliott Bay is the inlet beside Seattle, farther north in Puget Sound.
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