Funding to Help Salmon Thrive
Dear Neighbor,
This month, the King County Flood Control District approved $10.5 million for salmon recovery and habitat restoration grants in King County.
The grants, known as Cooperative Watershed Management (CWM) Grants, were proposed and selected by local salmon recovery groups called Watershed Resource Inventory Areas (WRIA).
When I became Chair of the Flood District, I doubled the grant funding for salmon recovery as part of our work to be a better environmental partner while providing essential flood protection along our major rivers. These grant dollars are just one example where the Flood District has committed to improving the environmental health of our river systems. The increase in grant funding will result in an additional $50 million for local salmon recovery efforts over the next decade.
Numerous local projects will be able to move forward because of this recent round of funding:
- The City of Tukwila will receive $350,000 to create fish passage between Gilliam Creek and the Green River and open up off-channel floodplain habitat where juvenile salmon can rest.
- In Des Moines, the McSorley Creek Shoreline and Estuary Restoration Project will receive $200,000 to help restore 1000 feet of shoreline and one acre of pocket estuary.
- Funding will also support a summer internship program in Des Moines focused on ecological restoration. The internship – Youth Engaged in Sustainable Systems – was created in partnership with Highline School District and Pacific Education Institute.
Eat Healthy and Support Our Local Farmers
With summer comes the chance to grab some fresh produce or baked goods at our local South King County farmer’s markets. Whether up on Kent’s East Hill or at the Des Moines waterfront, these events are great opportunities to support local growers while also enjoying some healthy food.
To find your nearest farmers market, visit: https://kingcounty.gov/services/environment/water-and-land/agriculture/farmers-markets.aspx
King County Offers Housing Repair Assistance
For those living on a low income, a necessary home repair project can often be financially challenging, and if left untended, can lead to greater costs in the future or even unsafe living conditions. King County operates a Housing Repair Program that provides funding for housing repairs services to low-income homeowners and renters with a disability.
 Watch this short video to see how our community has been able to utilize the Housing Repair Program by clicking this photo.
Out in the District
Recently, I took advantage of the sunny weather to donate a couple retired King County Metro vans to two wonderful organizations located in Kent.
UTOPIA Washington provides culturally-appropriate support and programming for members of the Pacific Islander LGBTQIA+ community and Restore Assemble Produce (R.A.P) works with BIPOC youth to overcome challenges they face and promote healthy life choices. Both organizations will use these vans to safely transport those they serve, allowing them to continue the great work they are doing in our community.
As always, I value your thoughts, ideas and input. Please feel welcome to contact me via email at Dave.Upthegrove@kingcounty.gov.
You can watch Council meetings via livestream on the Council's website or on KCTV channel 22. We take general public comment on the 4th Tuesday of every month.
To learn more about testifying before Council go to: https://www.kingcounty.gov/council/committees/full_council.aspx
Sincerely,
Dave Upthegrove
King County Councilmember
District 5
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