PROGRAMS: SAMMAMISH SLOUGH MAINTENANCE

Earth Day 2005 Sammamish River Blackberry Bash

On Earth Day this year, the Seattle Chapter and friends will be out on the riverbanks of the Sammamish River again, cutting back non-native Himalayan blackberry bushes which threaten to overtake the native vegetation. We will continue our work to restore the native habitat needed for a healthy, life-sustaining riparian zone.

When: Earth Day 2005
Where: Meet on the west bank of the Sammamish River at the NE 116th street bridge
What to bring: Work clothes, work gloves, and loppers, if you have them

Please RSVP Andrew McGlenn, 206-232-8431 or a.mcglenn@att.net

"The Blackberry Wars: Your country needs you"
The Seattle Times, Thursday, April 18
Ron C. Judd

Project History

Over thirty-five years ago, the Sammamish River Channel was dredged and  straightened. To ease maintenance tasks and control possible flooding, the banks were kept devoid of trees and shrubs. With the river no longer suitable for habitat for fish and wildlife, the salmon, steelhead and native animal populations have dwindled.

In 1989, IWLA members concerned about the Sammamish River's environment, adopted the first 1/2 mile stretch of the river just north of the Redmond city limits (between N.E. 116th and N.E. 124th Streets). By 1990 a master plan was created, permits obtained, clearing begun and grants received for planting material and equipment. IWLA organized work parties have included Microsoft employees, Boy Scout troop members and local citizens. The sustained efforts of these people are helping the Sammamish River to regain the native habitat it needs for a healthy riparian zone. This will in turn improve fisheries by providing shade and additional food sources and provide nesting and feeding habitat for Sammamish Valley wildlife.

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Summary:

Clearing river bank for better fish habitat

© 2004. Greater Seattle Chapter, Izaak Walton League.