WDFW outlines Region 5 projects in Cowlitz County: Toutle fish facility, hatchery work, deer collaring and hoof disease response

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) Southwest Region Director Ryan Salee and program managers briefed the Cowlitz County Board of Commissioners at a workshop on regional projects, fish and wildlife monitoring, and disease and enforcement priorities affecting Cowlitz County.

“We are dedicated to preserving, protecting, and perpetuating the state's fish, wildlife, and ecosystems, while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities,” Salee said as he opened the presentation and introduced program staff from fish, wildlife, habitat and enforcement.

Key WDFW updates and projects for Cowlitz County

- Toutle Fish Collection Facility: WDFW and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers are updating the North Fork Toutle River fish collection facility to improve collection efficiency and transport survival for salmon and steelhead and to facilitate reintroduction above the sediment retention structure (SRS). Salee said the project is at about 60% design and construction is scheduled for 2026–27; the agency described the cost share with the Army Corps as an 80/20 arrangement. WDFW also said the design will include lamprey passage.

- Hydropower and fish passage: WDFW described ongoing hydropower engagement, including PacifiCorp’s Lewis Fish Passage project (60% design for two upstream and one downstream passage) and coordination with Tacoma Power on hatchery and genetic-management planning and transition plans.

- Hatcheries and funding: WDFW said the Southwest Region operates 14 hatchery facilities and that six hatchery sites are located in Cowlitz County. The agency…