Restoring Our Natural Heritage: The Boise Creek Project
Here in Enumclaw, we’ve embarked on an exciting journey to restore a vital piece of our local ecosystem. A quarter-mile stretch of a man made stream, once used for irrigation drainage from our farmlands, is undergoing a remarkable transformation. This stream, directly connected to Boise Creek—a tributary of the White River in Water Resource Inventory Area (WRIA) 10—plays a crucial role in the salmon lifecycle.
A Vision for Restoration
The restoration plan, spanning five phases, focuses on the riparian zone alongside this tributary, extending up to the Enumclaw Foothills Trail. This project, born from a partnership between the Enumclaw Plateau Community Association (EPCA), the Rose Foundation, and the Puget Soundkeeper, aims to revitalize this area and create a thriving habitat for local wildlife.
Our Three-Pronged Approach
- Revitalizing the Landscape
– Removing invasive and noxious plant species
– Planting native plants to control invasive regrowth
– Creating shade for the stream to support salmon spawning
– Beautifying the natural area along this popular walking trail
- Building Community Connections
– Bringing together local communities, cultural leaders, and environmental partners
– Educating and promoting environmental restoration
– Bridging socioeconomic boundaries through shared environmental stewardship
- Nurturing Future Land Stewards
– Organizing community planting events
– Inspiring awe and wonder as locals watch their planted natives mature
– Fostering environmental consciousness in our youth
A Community Effort
This project is more than just planting native plants—it’s about planting seeds of change in our community. By involving local residents in the restoration process, we’re not just improving our environment; we’re cultivating a sense of ownership and pride in our natural surroundings.
As we progress through this restoration journey, we invite you to join us. Whether you’re a long-time resident of the Plateau or new to Enumclaw, there’s a place for you in this project. Together, we can create a lasting legacy—a beautiful, thriving ecosystem that future generations will enjoy and protect.
Every Wednesday we met at the Foothills Trail at the Steel Elk Herd at Highway 410 and 456th Street.
Click here to read the entire plan
Check in regularly for updates on our progress and upcoming community events and follow us on social media @enumclawplateaucommunityassociation