Upper Columbia Gets $4M Boost for Salmon Restoration

WENATCHEE - In a significant boost to the ongoing efforts aimed at restoring salmon populations in the Upper Columbia Region, the Washington State Salmon Recovery Funding Board (SRFB) has recently allocated nearly $4 million in funding. Chelan County secured $2,906,562 of this allocation, while Okanogan County received $959,339, reinforcing the commitment to preserving these vital aquatic species.

The funding will support various projects across the Upper Columbia Region, focusing on critical salmon restoration initiatives. Among the projects selected for funding are:

• Lower Wenatchee and Peshastin Thermal Refuge Assessment, spearheaded by the Chelan County Natural Resources Department.
• Chewuch Acquisition RM 2.8-3., led by the Methow Salmon Recovery Foundation.
• Upper Wenatchee Floodplain Reconnection (RM 37-38) – Implementation, a Chelan County Natural Resources Department endeavor.
• -Goat Creek Fan Restoration, under the purview of Cascade Fisheries.
• Lower Chiwaukum Creek Restoration, a project managed by Cascade Fisheries.
• Upper Columbia Fish Distribution Assessment, an initiative by Cascade Fisheries.
• Icicle Creek Instream Flow Restoration – Cascade Orchard Irrigation Company (COIC), in partnership with Chelan County Natural Resources Department.
• Upper Methow Design Rm 61.75-62.75, led by the Methow Salmon Recovery Foundation.
• Nason Creek RM12 Floodplain Reconnection, championed by the Chelan County Natural Resources Department.
• Fulton Ditch Irrigation Efficiency Project - Phase 1, a collaboration with Trout Unlimited.
• Mission Creek Protection, a project by the Chelan Douglas Land Trust.
• Floodplain Restoration Effectiveness Monitoring, managed by the Chelan County Natural Resources Department.

Over the past two decades, the annual allocation of funding has played a pivotal role in establishing a thriving restoration economy in the region. This initiative has not only created an estimated 2,570 jobs but has also generated a staggering $325 million in economic activity. It underscores the vital role of salmon recovery in the local economy.

The Upper Columbia Salmon Recovery Board serves as the lead entity coordinator for SRFB in North Central Washington. Its primary mission is to provide support to local organizations that submit project proposals each year. These projects are meticulously selected based on federally approved regional salmon recovery plans. Lead entities collaborate with citizen and science committees to vet the projects. Once approved, they are reviewed by regional organizations before being submitted to the Salmon Recovery Funding Board for funding consideration. Each project is assessed for its cost-effectiveness and potential benefits to salmon populations.

Salmon recovery in Washington State relies on the collective efforts of lead entities, which comprise watershed-based groups, including tribes, local governments, nonprofit organizations, and concerned citizens. These entities play a crucial role in ensuring the protection and revitalization of salmon populations, ultimately preserving the region's ecological balance.

The recent funding allocation signifies a continued commitment to preserving and restoring the Upper Columbia Region's vital salmon populations, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts in safeguarding our environment for future generations.