Whidbey Watershed Stewards (previously known as Maxwelton Salmon Adventure) used this funding for a feasibility study to identify alternatives for re-establishing an estuary and improving fish passage into Maxwelton Creek, at the south end of Whidbey Island, WA. The study examined historic conditions and the current state of the estuary and tide gate system. Whidbey Watershed Stewards worked in cooperation with Diking District #2 and local landowners to explore alternatives that benefit salmon and the local community. They retained Northwest Hydraulic Consultants to conduct the study. The project included characterization of current and historic conditions of the former estuarine system in terms of its hydrology, hydraulics, vegetation, wildlife, and aquatic resources. The study provides a basis for members of the community to identify mutually acceptable alternatives and to seek future funding to implement chosen alternatives. The creek is the largest sub-basin in WRIA 6 and has a long history of salmonid use. In the early 1900's the estuary was converted to agricultural use and tide gates installed at the mouth. Tidegate modifications in 1990 have resulted in negligible fish returns. The WRIA 6 Limiting Factors Analysis recommended reestablishment of the historic estuary and lists access as a major factor, calling the tide gates "the most serious problem." Local property owners, whose land is used primarily for dairy operations and pastureland, were concerned with the maintenance or improvement of drainage. The study process was designed to be inclusive of a diverse array of stakeholders including conservationists, landowners, and local jurisdictions, and involved periodic committee meetings and public meetings. The completed feasibility study and six proposed restoration alternatives were presented to local stakeholders and landowners in 2002.