The Bellingham Herald week in review

By This digest was produced using AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division.

October 30, 2025 11:24 AM

Bellewood Farms and Distillery offers a hands-on experience with U-pick pumpkins sold by weight at 6140 Guide Meridian north of Bellingham, Wash. There are also free tractor rides, games, a kids’ play area and a corn maze. Robert Mittendorf The Bellingham Herald

Lynden farm ranks among Washington’s top fall spots

A Whatcom County farm has been recognized as one of Washington’s best destinations for autumn activities, according to a recent nationwide survey. Bellewood Farms in Lynden ranked third among the state’s top “fall fix” spots in a study conducted by Florida-based Gunther Volkswagen Delray Beach, which surveyed 3,021 people in September. The farm placed behind Seattle Cider Company and Victrola Coffee Roasters. Known for its pumpkin patch, apple orchard, harvest activities, distillery and cafe, Bellewood Farms offers families a quintessential autumn experience. While the apple orchard and pumpkin patch close Oct. 31, the farmstead at 6140 Guide Meridian Road remains open year-round with varying hours.

Reported by Alyse Smith, published Oct. 27

Whatcom County food banks brace for SNAP suspension

Food banks across Whatcom County are preparing for the expected suspension of federal SNAP benefits on Nov. 1 because of the government shutdown that began Oct. 1. About 35,243 people in Whatcom County rely on SNAP benefits, representing approximately $4 million monthly in assistance. Local food banks have already seen a 20% increase in visits as families prepare for the loss of benefits. The Bellingham Food Bank, currently serving 5,000 households weekly, had its largest service day ever on Oct. 27. Gov. Bob Ferguson has directed nearly $2.2 million weekly to state food banks starting Nov. 3, though officials say this emergency response won’t fill the void left by suspended SNAP benefits.

Reported by Jack Belcher, published Oct. 29

Bellingham continues homeless camp cleanup effort

The city of Bellingham has begun the second phase of cleanup at a large homeless encampment behind Walmart off E. Stuart and Deemer Roads, nearly one year after initial clearing efforts began. The encampment was home to dozens of unhoused individuals for more than a decade before its impacts prompted safety concerns from nearby residents and businesses. Following a lawsuit against property owner Li-Ching Fang, Whatcom County Superior Court Judge Lee Grochmal ordered Fang to pay $126,743.59 in reimbursement costs to the city, none of which has been received. The recent cleanup phase removed 30,480 pounds of waste, with officials estimating 1,000 to 2,000 tons of waste remain across the property. City officials expect the complete cleanup will take several years and cost up to $6 million due to environmental damage and site accessibility challenges.

Reported by Rachel Showalter, published Oct. 28

E. coli outbreak linked to Whatcom County dairy

Health officials announced Oct. 24 that an E. coli outbreak linked to Twin Sisters Creamery in Ferndale has sickened at least three people across Washington and Oregon. Two Whatcom County residents and one Oregon resident became ill between Sept. 5 and 16, with one person requiring hospitalization. The outbreak involves a Shiga toxin-producing E. coli strain O103, with test results showing a genetic link between the illnesses and Twin Sisters Creamery products. Multiple varieties of aged raw milk cheese are being recalled, including Whatcom Blue, Farmhouse, Peppercorn and Mustard Seed varieties produced May 27 or later. Health officials continue investigating and warn that additional products may be recalled as the investigation progresses.

Reported by Robert Mittendorf, published Oct. 25

Health insurance premiums to rise 66% for Whatcom residents

Whatcom County residents who purchase their own Affordable Care Act health insurance will face a 66% cost increase due to the expiration of the Enhanced Premium Tax Credit. The increase affects approximately 9,930 people, representing about 5% of county residents and the third-highest percentage in Washington state. U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell warns that Americans will collectively pay $23 billion more next year to maintain current coverage levels. Washington residents specifically are expected to pay an average of $132 more monthly, representing the largest premium rate increase since 2018 and approximately 10 times the inflation rate. Open enrollment begins Nov. 1. Cantwell urges immediate congressional action to prevent further health care system strain.

Reported by Hannah Edelman, published Oct. 23

Lummi Nation seeks consultation rights in B.C. court

Lummi Nation has filed a petition in the Supreme Court of British Columbia seeking recognition as a participating Indigenous nation (PIN) on environmental projects affecting their traditional territory in the province. The petition argues that B.C. has a “duty of deep consultation” with the tribe, which would provide increased rights including access to dispute resolutions and consensus-seeking processes. Currently, Lummi Nation is only notified of projects and can provide comments, but lacks the same legal consultation requirements afforded to B.C. First Nations. The petition specifically mentions seven excluded projects, including a Fraser River tunnel and marine jetty development. B.C. officials dispute claims of inadequate engagement, stating they have been consulting with Lummi Nation appropriately. A hearing is expected in the coming months.