Dive In! Exploring Hat Island and Mukilteo's Kelp and Eelgrass
: Rosehill Community Center in Mukilteo: 304 Lincoln Ave Ste 108, Mukilteo, WA 98275Come join us at the Rosehill Community Center in the Point Elliot Room for an exciting event diving into the wonders of Hat Island and Mukilteo's vibrant kelp forests and eelgrass meadows! Discover why the marine vegetation in our local waters is so crucial through a series of quick and informative speaker presentations. Learn about the status of kelp and eelgrass beds around Hat Island and Mukilteo from local scientists and kelp-enthusiasts and view stunning underwater photography from local divers! Plus, enjoy some delicious light refreshments inspired by our bountiful waters. Whether you're a seasoned diver or just curious about underwater worlds, this event is perfect for anyone with a love for the ocean. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to explore the beauty (and science) beneath the surface!
After a decade of planning, construction was completed on the 1.3-acre estuary restoration project at Meadowdale Beach Park! Pocket estuaries like Meadowdale are important rest stops for young salmon, where salmon can shelter, feed and grow.
More information about the monitoring of the project effectiveness can be found in our Projects Page.
Meadowdale Restoration Video
Of the 23 species of large brown algae (known as kelp) that are native to Puget Sound, the beautiful Nereocystis luetkeana, or bull kelp, is the largest. Reaching a canopy height of 60’ or more, this is likely the one you’ve tangled in a propeller, marked as a prized fishing spot or dive site, or perhaps eaten – pickled, as a tasty appetizer. In response to concerns about declining bull kelp populations in some parts of the Sound, and mounting interest in kelp restoration, the Northwest Straits Commission is gathering information for use in local and regional planning and research.
Watch the video!Snohomish County staff posted 2 vessels for removal in summer 2024. After a posting period per Chapter 79.100 RCW: DERELICT VESSELS (wa.gov), Snohomish County took possession of the vessels. A contractor removed the vessels in late August 2024. This brings the total number of vessels removed by Snohomish County from the Snohomish Estuary area to 29 during the last 7 years (2018-2024).
The total cost of the 2024 removals was nearly $29,000. The costs of the project will be reimbursed at 100% by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources Derelict Vessel Removal Program - Recovering Derelict Vessels | WA - DNR. The State's Derelict Vessel Program will investigate last known owners to seek restitution to pay for the costs of removing their vessels.
one of the boats removed in summer 2024