Riding the Wave: Joey Lawrence Unveils the Future of Surfing in Yakima

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In this episode, we dive into an engaging conversation with the dynamic and driven Joey Lawrence.

Learn about Joey's fascinating journey from a college athlete to a visionary entrepreneur, and learn about the ambitious Barreled surf park project that's making waves in Yakima, Washington.

Joey's brainchild – the Barreled Surf Park, a project that promises a thrilling experience just east of Yakima. The vision for the 5.5-acre wave pool with its 6.6 million gallons of water, adjustable wave styles, and an array of amenities like campsites, cottages, and a bar and restaurant, truly paints an enticing picture of adventure and relaxation.

Joey's unwavering dedication to his venture is evident, from the amount of time and resources he has invested in the project to navigating hurdles in securing funding. He opens up about the difficulty in fundraising, exacerbated by rising interest rates and a local downturn in the market, shedding light on the challenges faced by aspiring entrepreneurs.

The commitment to responsible environmental practices is another key aspect of the Barreled project. Joey reveals plans for a retention area to minimize water usage on the farm, illustrating an earnest effort to reduce the park's impact on the local aquifer. Additionally, the intention to limit the number of visitors per hour and obtaining a "dark skies" accreditation to mitigate light pollution underscores their conscientious approach to preserving the natural surroundings.

Beyond its promise of thrilling surf experiences, the surf park aims to be a catalyst for positive change in Yakima. Joey envisions a significant economic impact, creating year-round and seasonal job opportunities, and potentially attracting a new wave of tourism to the region. T

Find out more in this episode.