Duwamish River and Elliot Bay Sub-Watershed

Duwamish/Elliott Bay Sub-Watershed The watershed's estuary, the lower Duwamish and Elliott Bay have been the site of exetensive modification and pollution for the last 100 years. The loss of more than 99 percent of the estuarine marsh habitats and extensive pollution have been well documented. Contamination of sediments and benthic (bottom-dwelling) biota, and high water temperatures during critical times of the year have created an inhospitable environment for resident and migratory fish and shellfish. The development, including the Port of Seattle facilities, has been a primary economic driver for the entire region. However, the future viability of both natural resources and economic opportunities in this area are partially dependent upon controlling the high costs of environmental clean- up and econopmic redevelopment in an increasingly restrictive regulatory environment. Challenges for the Duwamish River and Elliott Bay Sub- Watershed: How can we build upon the activities of the Duwamish Coalition in building partnerships between business, industry, public agencies, tribes, and community groups? Can expenditures and actions by agencies, private industry, and community groups be better focused to achieve more tangible benafits for the money being spent? Can the cooperating partners develop a balance between supporting the ecological functions of this area through careful management and restoration while allowing the industrial and commercial development to thrive?

For questions about the Water and Land Resources Web Site, please contact Fred Bentler, webmaster. Department of Natural Resources and Parks Water and Land Resources Division Updated: February 7, 2002

Related Information: the Green River Watershed Page

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