Project overview
This project removed fish barriers at two locations: one on State Route 104 at Shine Creek, and the other on State Route 19 at Swansonville Creek.
At both locations, 18-foot three-sided culverts were constructed.
What to expect
This project is complete.
This project removed one fish barrier on SR 104 at Shine Creek, and another on SR 19 at Swansonville Creek.
Correcting fish passage barriers is an important part of WSDOT's effort to protect and restore fish runs negatively affected by outdated culverts under state highways.
In 2013, a federal court injunction required the state to significantly increase efforts in removing state-owned culverts that block habitat for salmon, bull trout and steelhead.
Replacing outdated culverts with new full-span bridges and fish passable structures will increase the likelihood of migration through the channel. Fish will be able to pass through both creeks easier as the water will be slower and will simulate a more natural creek environment.
At Shine Creek, the removal of the fish barrier produces approximately 2.7 miles of upstream habitat.
At Swansonville Creek, the removal of the fish barrier produces approximately 2.3 miles of upstream habitat.
