The Jarrell Cove project is located on Harstine Island in Mason Co. This restoration project is located in the tidal estuary of Pickering Passage that currently does not mix with fresh water. SPSSEG staff identified this culvert while conducting a WRIA 14 Barrier Inventory completed in 2003. Chum, coho, cutthroat, and other resident fish will utilize the existing 1 mile of habitat upstream of the Jarrell Cove culvert. Chum have been observed spawning in the estuary.
The existing 3 culvert is much too small and has filled up with bedload material. The culvert does not allow for natural stream function or tidal exchange and is a significant barrier for salmonids. The new culvert will follow WDFW stream simulation criteria and provide passage for all salmon species and life stages. The structure will be a 16 round aluminum structural plate pipe. The slope will be set at 2% and the length will be ~115. The road embankment is 25 high and will be placed at a 2:1 slope.
The estuary conditions will be much improved. It is estimated that post project conditions will provide an additional 60 of saltwater inundation upstream of the culvert. Recent stream and nearhsore studies have indicated that Jarrell Cove Creek is a high priority for restoration. Salmon are utilizing the Jarrell Cove estuary and the upstream landowners have observed adult salmon in the creek (up to RM 1). This project will create additional benefits for the Pickering Passage estuary and Jarrell Cove Creek.
