Thurston County is advancing its salmon recovery efforts despite funding uncertainties. A $10 million funding package is being sought to enhance the Deschutes River basin. Key projects include:
- Upper Deschutes Large Wood Debris: Engineers completed designs for an 18-mile stretch to slow storm flows and support juvenile salmon habitats.
- Beatty Creek Culvert Replacement: A blocked culvert was replaced, opening nearly 2 miles for salmon spawning.
- Evergreen State College Shoreline: Concrete removal will restore sediment movement and improve beaches for forage fish.
- Deschutes Estuary Restoration: This project aims to remove a dam and reconnect the river to Budd Inlet.
The region also plans to assess stormwater storage and increase log-jam placements for habitat efficiency. Economic benefits include job creation related to restoration efforts. However, funding from the Pacific Coastal Salmon Recovery Fund is at risk due to past budget cuts, with efforts ongoing to secure support from state and federal officials.
