The project consists of the removal on an undersized 42 concrete culvert, which serves as a partial barrier to fish passage. The project is located at the stream crossing of the North Fork of West Hylebos Creek & S. 364th St. in the City of Federal Way. The undersized culvert will be replaced with a 12 concrete box culvert designed to the secifications of the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife stream simulation design criteria. In addition to the fish passage barrier removal, the project includes a habitat restoration component. Removal of invasive non-native vegetation & replanting with native plants along the downstream corridor will contribute to sediment/erosion control, water quality protection, & provide valuable overhead canopy to the stream channel. Resident fish in West Hylebos Creek include chinook, coho, chum, steelhead, & cutthroat trout. Historically, Hylebos Creek is recognized as one of the most productive tributaries for ESA listed chinook salmonids. The removal of the partial fish passage barrier at S. 364th St. is an important element in restoring fish runs on Hylebos Creek. Improving access to valuable upstream spawning, rearing, & feeding habitat will contribute to restoring declining salmonid productivity on West Hylebos Creek. The vegetation canopy will enhance habitat for salmon & other aquatic organisms by conributing to reduced water temperatures & serving as a source of organics and wood to the stream channel.
