The Wahkiakum High School football stadium grandstands may not be open to the public this year, district Superintendent Bob Garrett announced Tuesday.

School staff have discovered dry rot in the structure, and the grandstand will be closed until repairs are made, Garrett said.

District Maintenance Supervisor Mike Wright discovered the dry rot when he started to repair some fascia boards, Garrett said.

Wright investigated and found extensive dry rot. He asked a local contractor to have a look, and after the contractor had checked the structure, he recommended the district engage a structural engineer to evaluate the situation.

When he heard that recommendation, Garrett said, he knew he had to close the grandstand for safety reasons.

"We'll erect temporary bleachers, but they'll all be open if it rains, and fans should dress accordingly," Garrett said. "We apologize for the inconvenience, but your safety and welfare are more important than risking injury to even one person.

"Thank you for your understanding."