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Squalicum Creek

One of the largest independent drainages in Whatcom County, the Squalicum Creek watershed includes most of northern Bellingham, beginning at Squalicum and Toad lakes and stretching west to Bellingham Bay. Encompassing 24 square miles (15,097 acres), the watershed encompasses Baker Creek, which joins Squalicum near Meridian Street and is the largest of the tributaries, as well as Spring and McCormick creeks. In addition, Squalicum Creek flows through Sunset Pond and Bug Lake, two “borrow pits” used to provide fill during the construction of I-5.

Land use in the watershed is currently divided somewhat equally among agriculture, forestry and open space, and residential; there are also some commercial and industrial uses. Agriculture and forestry occur primarily in the upper reaches of the watershed, while residential and commercial use is predominant in the lower reaches.

Once a meandering drainage system dominated by cottonwood and deciduous forested wetlands, Squalicum Creek has been significantly altered. Channel rerouting, wetland filling, flood control measures such as culverts and riprap armoring, gravel dredging, vegetation removal, and the encroachment of invasive grasses have resulted in high water temperature, low levels of dissolved oxygen, and low and high seasonal flows.

Squalicum Creek and its tributaries still provide habitat for several salmonid species including coho, chum, sea-run steelhead and cutthroat trout. However, many urban water quality problems affect their health and survival. Stormwater from impervious surfaces, such as pavement and rooftops, contribute pollutants such as oils, gasoline, coolants and metals to the creeks and streams. In addition, predation by largemouth bass stocked in the watershed for recreational fishing adds to survival pressures already faced by the salmon.

The lower reaches of the Squalicum Creek watershed have been the focus of many restoration efforts. Projects such as culvert inventories and replacements have helped to restore fish passage; riparian revegetation will assist with shading; and removal of creosote pilings at the mouth of Squalicum Creek will improve forage fish habitat and nearshore water quality.

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