DESCRIPTION
Thomas' Eddy restoration on the Snohomish River to improve the quality and quantity of channel edge and off-channel habitat and connectivity between the main channel, floodplain and associated floodplain waterbodies. The project is located in the Heirman Wildlfe Preserve between river mile 16 and 18 of the Snohomish River. In the 1930s, levee construction in this area isolated more than 200 acres of Snohomish River floodplain including approximately 1.5 miles of off/side channel habitat and added nearly a mile of modified and rip-rapped edge to the river. Proposed future restoration actions include removal of levee (or portion), side channel connection, edge habitat enhancements, large wood placement, and riparian planting.
Snohomish County proposes to construct restoration elements at Thomas' Eddy on the Snohomish River to improve the quality and quantity of channel edge and off-channel habitat and connectivity between the main channel, floodplain, and associated floodplain waterbodies. The project is located in the Bob Heirman Wildlife Preserve between river mile 16 and 18 of the Snohomish River. In the 1930s, levee construction in this area isolated more than 200 acres of Snohomish River floodplain including approximately 1.5 miles of off/side channel habitat and added nearly a mile of modified and rip-rapped edge to the river. Proposed restoration actions include removal of large portions of levee, side channel connection, edge habitat enhancements, large wood placement, and riparian planting. This proposal is to fund construction of the preferred alternative identified in recent project outreach and planning efforts. Floodplains by Design funded 30% design (attached in PRISM). An ongoing SRFB grant (18-1617) that funded 60% design is nearing completion. Streamflow Restoration grant funds are being sought for final design and permitting. All future phases of this project will continue to involve substantial engagement with the Tulalip Tribes, Snohomish County Parks, neighboring flood control districts, and stakeholders including the Heirman family, fishing community, adjacent farmers, birders, and other park users.