Duwamish River Estuary Intertidal Wetlands Restoration

The Duwamish Estuary in Seattle, Washington has been subject to heavy industrial development and pronounced anthropogenic disturbances associated with the Port of Seattle and other commercial facilities along its waters. This project sought to restore intertidal wetlands at three sites in the estuary, and to thereby enhance public access to the river and create vital habitat for several important species of birds and fish. While project activities varied from site to site, hydrologic modifications were the central focus at all three. Periodic site monitoring has indicated varying degrees of recovery at the project sites, but it has also suggested that human activities continue to threaten the estuary's wildlife populations.