Smolt Traps with the Elwha Tribe

Last month we had the opportunity to help the Elwha tribe install smolt traps on Deep Creek and West Twin.  Serving as our first experience with smolt trap installation, we thoroughly enjoyed every step of the process.  Sandbags, t-posts, sledge hammers, fencing and the Elwha... we were in paradise.

 

Donovan Creek Restoration Project

After 2 months of hard work and erratic weather, we put our final touches on the Donovan Creek Restoration Project in May. Originally a barren 20 acre site nudged between a cattle ranch and Quilcene Bay, Donovan Creek was in dire need of healthy native habitat. Answering the call, we planted over 12,000 deciduous and coniferous trees/shrubs. The Donovan Creek site is quite significant for the crew, it was our largest planting of the year and home to some of the most extreme weather we have encountered. Wind, rain, hail and snow were all routine events and occurred with such force that the creek became virtually uncrossable. Although we were excited to relocate, the adverse conditions made for a more rewarding experience when we checked up on our budding plants this spring.