Overview

We realigned Edgecomb Creek near SR 531 in Arlington so it remains south of SR 531 in Arlington. Before we completed this project, the creek weaved back and forth underneath the highway using two culverts. Both were barriers to fish passage and needed to be replaced. Rather than replacing two, we moved the creek so no longer crosses under SR 531. 

We also added a new culvert that lets the creek flow more naturally. This gives steelhead trout, cutthroat trout, chum salmon and Coho salmon access to an additional two miles of habitat.

This fish passage project is one of about 1,000 culverts that are mandated to be replaced across the state. In 2013, the U.S. District Court for Western Washington ruled that the state must remove culverts that block fish passage under state roads.

How you benefit

• Environment: Rerouting Edgecomb Creek to the south side of SR 531 restores the creek to a more natural state and improves passage for resident and migratory fish and aquatic life.

Funding

Pre-existing funds: $3 million