Large Wetlands Restoration Proposed in Washington
August 11, 2016
In response to the historical releases of hazardous materials into Washington State’s Port Gardner Bay, we, along with our partners, have released a Draft Damage Assessment Restoration Plan and Environmental Assessment (Plan/EA) for public comment. The preferred restoration project is to contribute toward the completion of the Blue Heron Slough Restoration Project. This larger project, intended to address other conservation and mitigation needs, as well as address natural resource injuries from Port Gardner Bay, will restore approximately 350 acres of intertidal, wetland, and riparian habitat in the Snohomish estuary to benefit salmon and other species.
This proposed restoration project was determined to be the best way to compensate for injuries to natural resources resulting from historical hazardous releases from industrial activities.
The public is invited to review and comment on the proposed plan and EA for 30 days. Comments will be accepted until close of business, September 1, 2016. Comments can be sent to the USFWS at jeff_krausmann@fws.gov.