Silverdale, Wash. – Kitsap County Public Works – Stormwater Division was awarded the Innovative Stormwater Project Award for its for its 113-acre Whispering Firs Stormwater Park project. The award was given by the Pacific Northwest Clean Water Association (PNCWA). This is the second award for Whispering Firs, which was awarded the Top Award by Storm Water Solutions in November 2019.

The PNCWA award recognizes projects that feature innovative components in design, urban habitat and water quality enhancements. Whispering Firs Stormwater Park was once a vacant trailer park that was transformed into a multi-functional and beautiful space designed to filter and clean pollutants from stormwater.

The stormwater park also doubles as a recreational space with walking paths and picnic benches. The park uses green treatment techniques in a functional and innovative way. Everything from round cement circles to decorative iron grates serve double duty, designed to be walked around or sat upon, while also filtering rainwater from upstream development. Native plantings, the preservation of mature trees and visible underground bio-retention cells all beckon visitors to learn and see stormwater treatment in action. The $4 million project treats total suspended solids, total petroleum hydrocarbons, metals and nutrients and controls water flows to Clear Creek.

Michelle Perdue, Senior Program Manager for the Stormwater Division explains, “We are honored to be recognized as a leader in green stormwater solutions. In addition to serving a needed function, this beautiful park provides a welcoming space for all Kitsap residents to enjoy.”

Whispering Firs Stormwater Park is located at 12300 Silverdale Way and is open to the public.

Media Contact:  Michelle Perdue, Senior Program Manager, 360.337.5777 or mperdue@co.kitsap.wa.us