DESCRIPTION
Kitsap County will use this grant to restore marine nearshore habitat. The restoration will occur on three parcels located in unincorporated Kitsap County. Locations are Suquamish (Port Madison), Rocky Point (Dyes Inlet) and Manchester (Central Basin of Puget Sound). The goal of this project is restoration of nearshore habitat by removal of shoreline armor (bulkheads), a primary strategy for salmon recovery. Removal of bulkheads restores sediment processes which improve and create habitat for forage fish spawning. Forage fish (smelt, sand lance) are an important food source for juvenile salmon. This grant will result in approximately 312 linear feet of restored shoreline habitat. The priority species supported by this habitat is Puget Sound Chinook.
This project builds on efforts to encourage private shoreline property owners to voluntarily remove their bulkheads rather than replacing them. Sites were vetted by the Shore Friendly Kitsap program by completing site-specific feasibility reports by a licensed geologist, investigation of other factors such as structure setback, neighbor buy-in, septic location, and accounting for other utilities. This program will assist with economic hardship for the landowners who voluntarily restore their shoreline property.
In May 2018 the construction for the bulkhead removal at the Saxton property was completed. Approximately, 100 feet of creosoted timber bulkhead was removed, as well as concrete steps and a small stone rockery. Beach nourishment and two anchored logs at the property lines, above the OHWM were installed. The project was under the supervision of the homeowner and completed according to all necessary permits. The hired contractor, SkelleyWorks completed the construction in 3 weeks. The Suquamish Tribe inspected cultural resources onsite and Coastal Geologic Services (design consultant) completed a number of construction inspections. The homeowner installed 90 native plants in the shoreline buffer. This project resulted in 100 feet of restored shoreline that can now act under more natural sediment processes, and can contribute to improved habitat for juvenile salmon. This project removes a private bulkhead and will provide nearshore rearing habitat for forage fish and salmonids.
This project resulted in 100 feet of restored shoreline that can now act under more natural sediment processes, and can contribute to improved habitat for juvenile salmon. This project removes a private bulkhead and will provide nearshore rearing habitat for forage fish and salmonids.
