WBFEG has completed the preliminary designs for the restoration of the lower reaches of the Niawiakum River and correction of an existing fish passage barrier. WBFEG is currently seeking funding for construction and completion of the final design and permitting.

This project will remove the existing fish barrier culverts with a full spanning bridge that will allow free passage for primarily coho adults and juveniles. Downstream of this barrier, the project will restore a degrated stream reach by placement of a significant volume of large wood materials designed to restore natural stream processes that sort and store aggregates and provide critical habitat pools throughout the reach.

The site is just upstream of the DNR Niawiakum River Natural Area Preserve, which contains 1100 acres of pristine saltwater estuary habit.