WDFW hosts online public meeting for Duckabush estuary restoration project on Sep. 22

OLYMPIA – The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) and the Hood Canal Salmon Enhancement Group welcome the public to an online meeting on Wednesday, Sep. 22 from 6 to 7 p.m. to hear an update on the design of a proposed habitat restoration project at the mouth of the Duckabush River in Jefferson County.

WDFW and the Hood Canal Salmon Enhancement Group partnered with the Army Corps of Engineers and the Washington Department of Transportation to complete a preliminary design of the estuary restoration project that would reconnect the Duckabush River to its floodplain and wetlands by moving and elevating US Highway 101 onto a bridge spanning the area where freshwater from the river meets saltwater of Hood Canal.

“Our project team of engineers, biologists, and other specialists have been working hard to refine the design of this important estuary restoration project,” said Theresa Mitchell, restoration project manager with WDFW. “We look forward to sharing an update with the community, and regret that we cannot host an in-person open-house meeting.” 

The online meeting will include: 

• Project design update and timeline
• Maps, graphics, and a realistic 3D post-project visualization
• Question and answer session

The online meeting will be held on Zoom (meeting link).

Automated technology-based translation assistance is available on the Department’s web, virtual meeting, and online public feedback processes. To support equal access, WDFW staff are also available to arrange free and timely assistance when needed and notified. Learn more on the WDFW website, by calling 360-902-2349 TTY (711), or emailing Title6@dfw.wa.gov.

The Duckabush River estuary is impacted by fill, dikes, and road infrastructure, which blocks water channels and limits critical habitat for fish and wildlife, including endangered salmon species. The restoration project would occur primarily on public land at the Duckabush Wildlife Area Unit managed by WDFW. More information on the proposed project is available on WDFW’s website at https://wdfw.wa.gov/duckabush.

WDFW manages more than a million acres of land and hundreds of water access areas throughout the state. By actively managing lands, restoring habitats, and preserving wild places, the Department serves as stewards for Washington’s natural places, protecting the state’s land and water for its human and wildlife populations. WDFW works to preserve, protect, and perpetuate fish, wildlife and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish, wildlife, and recreational and commercial opportunities.