One of the largest restoration projects in the history of the
United States is underway at Olympic National Park World
Heritage site in Washington. Begun in September 2010, the
removal of the Elwha and Glines Canyon dams on the Elwha River
will result in salmon populations swelling from 3,000 to more
than 300,000 as all five species of Pacific salmon return to
more than 70 miles of river and stream. The return of fish will
bring bear, eagles and other animals back to an ecosystem that
has been deprived of a vital food source for 100 years. The
returning salmon and restored river will also renew the culture
of the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe, who has lived along the river
since time immemorial. Tribal members will have access to sacred
sites now inundated and cultural traditions can be reborn. The
National Park Service and the Tribe are primary partners on this
project. For photos, project updates and news, see nps.gov/olym
or interact with “Elwha River Restoration” on Facebook.