The Lower Big Quilcene restoration project is in the design phase of developing community-supported actions to improve flood protection for the town of Quilcene, over 30 homes, and road access to the largest employer in Jefferson County—Coast Seafoods—while also improving ecosystem functions and protecting critical shellfish resources in Quilcene Bay. Project objectives, developed by the local community, include flood risk reduction, salmon habitat restoration, shellfish viability, recreational access, and water quality improvement.
The next phase of the project will include final design of the major infrastructure components, including levee removal, levee strengthening, bridge relocation, trail siting, and more. Educational project components, as well as an economic development plan associated with the project, are also a part of this next phase.
The Quilcene River is the largest river and estuary in North Hood Canal.
Funding Sources:
- Salmon Recovery Funding Board
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Congressional district: 6
Partners:
- Hood Canal Salmon Enhancement Group
- Jefferson County
- The Nature Conservancy
- Skokomish Tribe
- Port Gamble Sk’lallam Tribe
- Jamestown Sk’lallam Tribe
- County Me In for Quilcene
- Coast Seafoods
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
- Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife
Photo credit: Monte Reinders