CLEAR CREEK Wetland & Floodplain Restoration Project: The next step in bringing Clear Creek back to life

Kitsap County Public Works Stormwater Division Development has increased stormwater runoff, contributing to • Increased stream erosion • Downstream flooding • Loss of aquatic habitat • Water quality problems

Clear Creek Floodplain Project Kitsap County Public Works Kitsap County Public Works, Stormwater Division implemented the Clear Creek Floodplain Project to reconnect the stream with its floodplain and restore natural functions.

Clear Creek Floodplain Project Kitsap County Public Works This will allow stormwater to be slowed, stored, and filtered naturally.

Clear Creek Floodplain Project Kitsap County Public Works Additional benefits include • Improving fish and wildlife habitat • Enhancing connectivity with the Clear Creek Trail System

Clear Creek Floodplain Project Kitsap County Public Works East Fork West Fork

Mainstem

The project is focused on an ecologically critical Mainstem area of Clear Creek, the confluence of two main branches, along with the upper mainstem.

Clear Creek Floodplain Project Kitsap County Public Works The Project Team:

Project Manager:

Design Engineer:

Construction:

Revegetation:

Clear Creek Floodplain Project Kitsap County Public Works Project Goals: To reduce downstream flooding and provide multiple benefits for people and wildlife:

• Re-engage the West Fork, East Fork, and Mainstem with their historical floodplain • Remove fish barrier culverts • Enhance habitat • Improve or maintain connections with the Clear Creek Trail System

Clear Creek Floodplain Project Kitsap County Public Works ✓Providing education to the public about the impacts of stormwater and the benefits of floodplain restoration.

Clear Creek Floodplain Project Kitsap County Public Works Key Accomplishments

Summer low flow, West Fork Floodplain Benefits:

6.4 acres of newly created floodplain

3,758 feet of new or enhanced stream length

Increased flood storage capacity by 20 acre-feet

Winter storm flow, West Fork

Clear Creek Floodplain Project Kitsap County Public Works Key Accomplishments

Habitat Benefits:

675 pieces of large wood installed

21 acres of invasive weeds removed

80,400 native trees & shrubs installed

2 barrier culverts removed

Enhanced habitat for more diverse wildlife communities

Clear Creek Floodplain Project Kitsap County Public Works Key Accomplishments

Benefits to Citizens:

3 footbridges added

Enhanced walking trails

Providing ongoing public education about the benefits of floodplains, restoration, and salmon. (see Kitsap Salmon Guide)

Clear Creek Floodplain Project Kitsap County Public Works Winter Storm Events: Year 1

Fall low flow Winter storm flow

After 2 inches of rain in a 24-hour period. The floodplains Site: East Fork contained stormwater and did not flood adjacent roadways. Acknowledgements

Funding:

of funding was provided by a grant from 53% Washington Department of Ecology.

of funding came from Kitsap County road fund 47% and stormwater management fees.

Clear Creek Floodplain Project Kitsap County Public Works