Development throughout the watershed basin impacts the natural function of Woodland Creek. These impacts include sudden and increased fluctuations of instream flows, excessive bank erosion, and sporadic riparian vegetation. The large wetland/lake complex at the headwaters of the mainstem Woodland drains to Lake Lois where the creek goes subsurface during low flow periods from the lake to Martin Way, a distance of approximately one mile. Juveniles are seen upstream of this point annually. Below Martin Way, large springs provide strong year-round base flows.

The system is naturally sand dominant with pockets of gravels, a condition amplified by stormwater issues. The City of Lacey has plans to construct a new stormwater facility to alleviate the erratic flow issues, particularly during the winter months. The residents, surrounding community, and city council offer strong support for salmon and habitat protection.

The basin contains numerous tributaries that are partially protected from the highflow events of the mainstem and represent underutilized habitat potential for salmonids. Fox and Palm Creeks offer 1.6 and 2.0 miles, respectively, of good rearing habitat with consistent flows and high quality wetlands. Jorgensen Creek provides 3.1 miles of rearing and spawning habitat for coho and cutthroat, while Eagle Creek serves as 2.6 miles of spawning habitat primarily for Henderson Inlet fall chum. Nearby Dobbs Creek, a tributary to Henderson Inlet, provides chum spawning and spawning and rearing for coho and cutthroat.

Residential development dominates the headwaters at the lake/wetland complex. Urban land uses within the City of Lacey dominate the central basin. The lower watershed becomes semi-rural residential as it drains to its mouth at Henderson Inlet. The final reach of the creek above the Henderson Inlet estuary is a habitat preserve owned by Thurston County.

Description from the Salmon Habitat Protection and Restoration Plan for Water Resource Inventory Area 13, Deschutes. For more information see the previously stated document or theSalmon Habitat Limiting Factors Final Report Water Resource Inventory Area 13