Pierce County Council Supports Muck Creek and Prairie Protection Conservation Projects

In a pivotal meeting held on August 26, 2025, the Pierce County Council gathered to discuss the future of conservation efforts in the region, focusing on the Muck Creek protection project and the broader Conservation Futures Program. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency and hope as community leaders and environmental advocates voiced their support for preserving vital habitats.

Jeanette Dorner, the executive director of the Nisqually Land Trust, opened the discussion by expressing gratitude to the council for rejecting an amendment that would have removed the Muck Creek project from consideration. She emphasized the project's significance, highlighting its dual habitat types—salmon streams and prairie land—both of which are increasingly rare in Pierce County. Dorner noted that the Conservation Futures Fund serves as a crucial financial resource, filling gaps that federal and state funding often leave behind.

Echoing her sentiments, James Riestopper, a long-time resident and volunteer with the Nisqually Land Trust, shared his firsthand experiences with the salmon population in Muck Creek. He painted a vivid picture of the area's ecological richness, mentioning the presence of salmon, osprey, and eagles, and underscored the importance of maintaining the creek's health for future generations.

As the meeting progressed, other stakeholders joined the conversation. David Trout, the natural resources director for the Nisqually Indian Tribe, passionately supported the Muck Creek project, linking it to the tribe's treaty rights and the historical decline of salmon fishing in the region. He described Muck Creek as a critical tributary for salmon recovery, urging the council to leverage the Conservation Futures Program to enhance habitat restoration efforts.

Stuart Early, representing the Tifoma Bird Alliance, highlighted the alarming loss of natural habitats and the urgent need for conservation measures. He called on the council to recognize the ecological crisis at hand and to support the resolution for the sake of future generations.

The meeting also featured voices from the Great Peninsula Conservancy and the Peninsula Metropolitan Park District, both of which underscored the importance of the Conservation Futures Program in preserving open spaces and enhancing public access to nature. They expressed gratitude for the council's commitment to conservation and the collaborative efforts that have made significant strides in protecting local ecosystems.

As public comments wrapped up, council members engaged in a thoughtful dialogue about the implications of property acquisitions under the Conservation Futures Program. Questions arose regarding the long-term management of these lands and their accessibility to the public. Council members reassured attendees that the program aims to balance conservation with community needs, ensuring that these vital areas remain protected for future generations.

The meeting concluded with a renewed sense of purpose among council members and community advocates alike. The discussions not only highlighted the importance of the Muck Creek project but also reflected a broader commitment to environmental stewardship in Pierce County. As the council prepares to vote on the resolution, the community watches closely, hopeful for a future where nature and public access coexist harmoniously.