The Chehalis Basin Lead Entity is looking for projects that will restore or protect salmon habitat in the rivers that flow into the Chehalis River and Grays Harbor, according to a news release.
Successful project proposals will receive funding through the state’s Salmon Recovery Funding Board. The minimum request is $5,000. There is no maximum request, but the total amount available for all projects in the river basin is about $2 million.
Typical projects include the following:
• Planting native trees and shrubs along stream banks
• Replacing undersized and poorly constructed culverts (pipes and other structures carrying water under roads) that impede salmon passage
• Reconnecting side channels with a river main stem
• Anchoring tree trunks and their roots in creeks to provide shelter and create pools for fish
• Removing invasive plant species like knotweed from stream banks
• Buying land containing pristine salmon habitat or that could benefit from restoration
Special funding will be available from the Salmon Recovery Funding Board in 2024 for streamside planting projects that do the following:
• Buy native trees and shrubs
• Install fencing to keep livestock out of vegetated riverbanks
• Maintain newly established plants
• Remove invasive plant species
• Buy land with intact streamside vegetation
Eligible applicants include cities, counties, conservation districts, tribes, nonprofits, regional fisheries enhancement groups, special purpose districts — such as public utility and irrigation districts — and state agencies with local partners. Private landowners can apply for a project on their land; however, the Chehalis Basin Lead Entity encourages them to work with a qualifying organization due to the complexity of the application process.
Planting projects may be fully funded, but applicants with other types of projects must provide resources (such as labor, materials, equipment use or cash) equivalent to 15 percent of the total project cost. Additional funding sources are available to complete these projects. The lead entity invites proposals for high priority projects that address salmon habitat needs, regardless of cost.
To apply, contact the Lead Entity Coordinator Kirsten Harma at 360-488-3232 or kharma@chehalistribe.org to discuss the project idea. Project forms must be submitted to the Chehalis Basin Lead Entity by Feb. 23.
To learn more about how to apply and to download application materials, visit www.chehalisleadentity.org.
