Examples of Past Projects
Small Habitat Restoration Program (SHRP)

This page looks at four Small Habitat Restoration projects. We hope that this will give you a sense for the types of projects that are covered by this program.

Canter Berry Farms

Canter Berry Farms is a working farm located on SE Green Valley Road, Enumclaw. The restoration of stream-side habitat along Burns Creek included installation of fencing to keep livestock out of the stream, removal of invasive (non-native) blackberries, and the planting of native trees, shrubs and groundcover.

The restoration work was done by Enumclaw High School students and the Washington Conservation Corps. As part of this project, students were able to learn about farm planning and management, fence construction, tool safety, livestock rearing, and habitat restoration.

This was a cooperative effort that included King County, King County Conservation District, Washington Conservation Corps, King County 4-H, and the Future Farmers of America.

Denny Creek

Denny Creek is a located near Kirkland. The goal of this project is to enhance 900 feet of stream bank (near where the creek flows into Lake Washington) by removing invasive ivy and planting native trees and shrubs. This project will include participation from King County Parks, Northshore Utility District, the Washington Conservation Corps, and local community groups.

Along with the restoration, signs will be posted that tell people about the project, the importance of a healthy stream corridor, and why it is necessary to minimize impacts in these areas. One objective will be to keep people out of the newly-planted riparian (along the stream bank) areas.

Work is anticipated to begin this fall and be completed by March, 2001. King County Parks will be responsible for maintenance after the first year. Help from community and school groups will be solicited for long-term stewardship of the site.

Luther Burbank Regional Park

The goal of this project, located on Mercer Island, was to restore a wetland on the shores of Lake Washington. The gate, or weir, that controls the water level was restored and native vegetation was planted as habitat for both amphibians and waterfowl. Native conifers were also planted on the hillside above the site to provide additional shade, cover, and material for wildlife.

The work for this project was done by the Washington Conservation Corps. King County will monitor and maintain the site, including removal of invasive plants, such as blackberries and Japanese knotweed. Another benefit of this project will be improved water quality: the plants will filter and treat urban run-off going into the lake.

Classic Nursery

Classic Nursery is located off Avondale Road, north of Redmond. The intent of this project was to restore salmon habitat by planting dense vegetation along the creek and by placing "in-stream" structures such as rocks, logs, and root wads in or near the creek. These deflect stream flows, create different areas along the creek such as pools and riffles, and create protected areas for salmon.

Much of the work was done with hand tools. This area was then weeded, mulched, and watered for the first year following construction. Long-term maintenance and monitoring is performed for years to ensure project success.

This was a good example of a small, low cost project that minimizes disturbance and the use of heavy equipment near the stream.

For questions about the Small Habitat Restoration Program, please contact Mason Bowles, senior ecologist.