KENMORE, Wash. –  King County has embarked on an effort to create a new plan for the Sammamish River, all the way from Lake Sammamish in Redmond through Bothell and Kenmore to Lake Washington.

We need your help.

Ecologically, the Sammamish River is not doing well. The River is overheated and tests way too high for pollutants. The presence of salmon in the River is dismal compared to 100 years ago. Lining both sides of the River are human encroachments and invasive plant species that crowd out native plants and wildlife. Reed canary grass, Himalayan blackberry, and other non-native species form “monocultures” that prevent healthy habitat for fish and other wildlife.

The good news is that the Sammamish River is not lost, and we can all work together to save it and bring it back to good ecological health. You can make a difference in this effort.  Please participate in King County’s online Open House and Survey. The deadline for participating is July 10, which is coming up soon. Also, please forward this press release and help get the word out.

For more information, please read the following news alert from King County’s Kate Akyuz, Project Manager:

“I am excited to tell you about a new project King County has launched, called the Sammamish River Capital Investment Strategy (Sammamish River CIS). The Sammamish River CIS will bring river management practices up to date with current regulations, plan for future conditions and potentially help some improvement projects get started early. The strategy will guide future projects to reduce flood risks and protect fish and wildlife habitat throughout the river corridor.   

I invite you to participate in the Sammamish River CIS Online Open House and Survey, which is open now through July 10. Your input on the Sammamish River CIS will make a difference on flood safety, habitat, and recreation improvement projects on the Sammamish River.  

We want to learn:  

• How do you interact with the Sammamish River? 
• What are your experiences with Sammamish River flooding? 
• What are your top priorities and concerns for the Sammamish River?  

Your contribution is important, so please take the time to participate and have your voice heard. We encourage you to share this information with your community, neighbors, and friends as well. 

There will be additional opportunities to provide your input in the coming months. More information about this work is available on the Sammamish River CIS project website.”