theler wetlands restoration project

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) and Hood Canal Salmon Enhancement Group (HCSEG) are planning to restore 7 acres of estuarine wetland habitat and reconnect a disrupted trail network at the Mary E. Theler Wetlands Nature Preserve. Union River continues to support the strongest run of Hood Canal summer chum in lower Hood Canal, and significant progress has been made in recent years to protect and restore estuarine and freshwater wetlands, restore riparian vegetation, and improve fish passage. This project will build critical rearing habitat for summer chum by expanding tidal connectivity inside the diked area. This will positively impact plant establishment, tidal channel development, food resources and habitat processes.

The project will also provide recreational benefits. As one of the largest estuary trail complexes on Hood Canal, the 3.2-mile Theler Wetlands Trail provides bird watching groups, educational institutions, and the surrounding community with the experience of viewing native plants, fish, and wildlife in the Union River Estuary. These lands have held considerable value to the Belfair community for decades. A section of the trail atop the levee has been compromised by high tides for over a decade. This project will build an elevated pier in the footprint of the old levee and fully reconnect the trail system.