East Jefferson County Remove Fish Barriers - Completed November 2023

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fish passage barriers is an important part of WSDOT's effort to protect and restore fish runs negatively affected by outdated culverts under state highways.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Replacing outdated culverts with new full-span bridges and fish passable structures will increase the likelihood of migration through the channel.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.