Purdy Creek culvert projects completed to salmons liking

The Purdy Creek restoration project, completed ahead of schedule, represents a significant achievement in enhancing salmon habitats in the region. After decades of blockage due to a culvert installed in 1978, the new bridges now allow fish to spawn upstream freely. The $41. 6 million project, initiated to comply with a 2013 federal court injunction, involved extensive engineering and ecological restoration efforts. Reports indicate that up to 300 salmon were observed upstream during their November run, showcasing the project's immediate impact on wildlife.

The work included the meticulous creation of a new stream bed and the planting of thousands of native vegetation to stabilize the environment. Engineers highlighted that the structures are designed to accommodate flooding events, further ensuring the creek's resilience. This collaborative effort not only restores fish passage but also enhances biodiversity and promotes a healthier ecosystem. The project exemplifies a determined commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development in the region.