Where Old Docks Go to Die

Old docks smell, this much I can tell you. You’ll catch a whiff of decomposing mussels and sea greens long before you ever see the old boards stacked, as these particular boards were, in the parking lot of the Berkeley Marina.

Old Berkeley Docks - ©ingridtaylar

The Marina is renovating — replacing the old A-B-C docks with improved versions. And in the process — much to the chagrin of many locals — they’ve ripped out the landscaping and toy-art installations which have marked the location for 20 years. This was one of those rotating exhibits:

Berkeley Marina Art Installation - ©ingridtaylar

Since I’ve been visiting the Berkeley Marina, the community garden and eclectic outdoor gallery have been part of the walk. I felt pangs upon seeing churned up soil and construction blockades where princess sculptures used to stand. There has been dispute over what form, if any, the community garden will take post-renovation.

A few more shots below of decomposing boards. I don’t often see entire sections of marina laid out to dry, so, of course, it was photo-worthy. Local boaters greeted me from a distance, noses covered. The seagulls loved the buffet in all its ripeness. I figured if the seagulls can handle it, I can. Never mind they probably enjoy the smell, whereas my nose doesn’t — and can pick out parts-per-million-scents like a truffel pig.