Skokomish River Restoration Project on Track

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Seattle District has received $13.6 million in the Corps Fiscal 2019 Work Plan to complete the Skokomish River Basin Ecosystem Restoration Project design and construction phases.

“The project includes removing a levee, placing large woody debris, restoring wetlands at two sites and reconnecting a side channel,” said Corps project manager David Cook. “When complete, it will also benefit an estimated 40 miles of habitat in the river that is periodically inaccessible to ESA-listed species due to lack of water.”

The Skokomish Indian Tribe and Mason County are cost-sharing, non-federal sponsors working with the Corps on the restoration effort.

“We have accomplished a great deal in the watershed but there’s more to be done. Getting the design and construction complete with the county and Corps of Engineers for this project is essential,” said Skokomish Tribe Natural Resources Director Joseph Pavel.

The Skokomish River Basin is located on Hood Canal, a natural fjord-like arm of Puget Sound and water of national significance. Running through Mason County, the Skokomish River is the largest source of Hood Canal’s freshwater as it flows into Annas Bay and critical in the canal’s overall health.

Officials expect final design completion in spring 2020, followed by contractor acquisition and construction.