PADDLING --  Canoeing, kayaking and camping through Z Canyon on the Pend Oreille River downstream from Metaline Falls has been tough to pull off since July 10 when Seattle City Light closed the Boundary Dam forebay campground and boat launch for a major reconstruction project.

Public access at the dam site is blocked until next year.

Seattle City Light says redeveloping the Forebay Recreation Area is the first project in a 10-year plan for recreational improvements throughout the Boundary Hydroelectric Project area.

Improvements at the forebay include adding more campsites and day-use picnic sites, an extended boat launch and new ADA amenities.

The campground and boat launch will reopen by Spring 2018.

Info: (206) 233-2631 or online at seattle.gov/light/Boundary/recreation.asp