Category Overview
Conserving land along our waterways protects important habitat and helps keep our rivers healthy, clean, and more resilient to drought. Riparian Protection projects conserve and restore fresh and saltwater habitat while protecting fish habitat. In doing so, the grants help provide our families, farms, and fisheries with clean water across the state.
Project Highlights
The City of Issaquah purchased four undeveloped parcels covering 1.87 acres and one conservation easements on another 0.21 acres on the west bank of Issaquah Creek to protect an important riparian corridor from residential development. This land, adjacent to the City’s Squak Valley Park North which is located on the east bank, was included in a habitat restoration project that included habitat improvements along 1350 feet of Issaquah Creek, connection of the creek with its historical floodplain by removing parts of a levee that runs parallel to the east bank, and riparian restoration area of approximately 8 acres. Restoration work improved habitat values in riparian areas and in the stream channel, benefiting Chinook salmon and other fish and wildlife species. The project also included development of a trail system in Squak Valley Park North through the newly restored Riparian Protection area.