Fish Passage Barrier Assessment

Why we care

The City of Sammamish is home to over ten species of salmon, including the kokanee salmon. Salmon migrate from Lake Sammamish to streams and rivers that outfall to the lake to spawn. Many of the rivers and streams that drain to Lake Sammamish have instream features that make it difficult or impossible for fish to pass upstream. 

The City of Sammamish's Stormwater Comprehensive Plan prioritizes sustainability and health as overarching goals. Part of reaching those goals is prioritizing existing fish passage barriers for repair and replacement.

Additionally, the Washington State Senate passed bill 2SHB 2251 requiring local governments to streamline permitting and identify and prioritize fish barrier removals. 

City goals achieved

Goal G.1: Comprehensively evaluate and address problems related to the existing stormwater system and manage storm and surface water systems to ensure longevity of assets.

Goal G.4: Protect the recovery of Lake Sammamish kokanee and other threatened salmonids. 

What's the latest?

The City of Sammamish is consulting with Wild Fish Conservatory to inventory, assess, and prioritize the City's fish passage barriers. 

How will the community be involved in the process?

Part of the project components are Outreach and Education. The City and the consultant will be coordinating with stakeholders and the community in multiple ways to garner feedback and incorporate comments. 

As project progresses, the City will engage with the community to solicit feedback through public events, meetings, social media notifications, and project website updates. We look forward to working with the community to develop this project.