We replaced 6 culverts barriers on tributaries to Salt Creek as part of an ongoing systematic effort to correct all human-caused barriers in the watershed. 31 culvert blockages were identified in the Salt Creek Watershed Analysis and their correction is the highest priority for restoration. The sites identified as barrier correction priorities identified in the watershed analysis. Significant progress has been made toward correcting barriers on other ownerships. Culverts were replaced with new culvert structures that met WDFW fish passage criteria. The old culverts were undersized and set at slopes that create velocity conditions or have outfall drops that inhibit or preclude fish passage. Clallam County does not have a process for repairing fish passage barriers unless the drainage structures fail or threaten public safety. The old culverts were all built of concrete which has a very long lifespan, therefore their replacmeent in 2009 and 2010 greatly accelerated their removal. We leveraged $550,000 in NOAA ORI funds to match SRFB funds to correct barrier culverts on an additional site. Installation of these structures was conducted by a contractor approved and supervised by Clallam County and the Tribe. Engineering and construction supervision for the project was provided by the Clallam County Department of Public Works. Correction of these barriers opened 5+ miles of low gradient habitat.
