The Elwha River was once filled with Chinook Salmon.  Some weighed over 100 pounds, swimming 40 miles into the heart of the mountains to spawn.  By 1911, the Elwha Dam construction was started and the upper 70 miles of habitat was blocked from migrating salmon.  In 2006, only 1% of the salmon remain, surviving in the lower 5 miles below both the dams.  In 2009, the dams will be removed and the river and salmon will run free.  Read the full introduction.

Study the Restoration

The Elwha River dam removal is a chance to experience new and exciting science while participating in a project making history.  Students are adding to our knowledge of the river with each field trip we make (see examples of student investigations).

See a Slide Show

See photos of Olympic Park Institute students engaged in field studies and various sites in the lower 20 miles, from the mouth of the river to the rugged floodplain above the dams.  Photos have been donated by Scott Church, Robert Lundahl and Jerda Smeltzer.

Grow with the Project

Dam removal begins in 2009, but there is so much to do now.  After the dams are removed, the vegetation will be planted and a forest will start to grow.  In the next 5 to 10 years, the salmon numbers will be increasing, and their nutrients returning to feed bears, insects, and other life.  As you grow older, the project will age and just get more interesting.  Join us and get involved.

Volunteer on the Beach or River

With the help of a camera, join Surfrider Foundation for monitoring changes along the shoreline of the Strait of Juan de Fuca.  See the importance of sand and gravel for shellfish and other species.  The are a number of ways to volunteer and learn more about restoration.

Stay in Touch

Keep checking back with us and watch the changes and additions to our site. We also would like to hear from you and send you our e-news.  Send us your email above and contact us with any suggestions or questions.  We can't wait to get you out on the river or beach!