Union Slough Wetlands Restoration

December 28, 2007

Snohomish County

The Union Slough Wetlands Restoration site owned by the Port of Everett is a unique feature in the lower reaches of the Snohomish River Estuary.  The site was constructed in February 2001 and expanded in October 2005 by removing two dikes and excavating a channel system, allowing tidal waters to flood the site.  These actions converted 24 acres of former agricultural land to conditions representative of the original habitat in the estuary.

Research indicates that an estimated 85 percent of the historical Snohomish River estuary habitat has been lost in the last century, impacting our salmon, bird, and crab populations.  Through restoration, this site now supports a thriving mudflat and tidal marsh community and a growing riparian corridor encouraging native trees and shrubs.

Environmental monitoring conducted by Pentec Environmental from 2001 to 2006 found juvenile salmon, including endangered Chinook, shorebirds, Dungeness crab and prey species benefiting from the improved habitat.  The Port of Everett added public amenities to the site in 2005, including a small parking lot and walking trails.

People For Puget Sound partnered with the Port of Everett in 2007 to continue monitoring efforts and promote stewardship of the site by volunteers from the local community.  The Sound Stewardship Program offers professional training to volunteers to continue environmental monitoring, enhance the native plant communities, and protect the habitat through public involvement and education.

Contact Keeley O'Connell, (360) 336-1931.