At the Water’s Edge
Nestled in an oxbow of the Skagit River, just north of the forks of the Skagit River Delta, is Edgewater Park. From this location one can see much of downtown Mount Vernon, and get a panoramic view of the Skagit River. This 54-acre park is a playground for all ages, including ball fields, walking trails, a jungle gym, frisbee golf course, and boat launch. For SFEG, however, it’s been the site of several salmon habitat restoration projects over the years.
Left: Volunteers planting the cleared bank; right, a few years after planting, growth of trees
In 2005, SFEG partnered with Skagit Watershed Council on an effort to replace non-native invasive plants with native plants at several locations along the banks of the river. This was done in conjunction with a side channel project in the southern section of the park. At about where the river curves westward to hug the park, a remnant side channel was re-established. This channel flows during high water, and provides critical rearing habitat for salmonids. Think of side channels as highway rest areas for fish. These slower-moving habitats allow juvenile salmon places to hide from predators, rest during high water events, and find ample food for their downstream migration.
As part of restoration, several community planting parties have been held here, including three Earth Day planting parties. If you start in the boat launch parking area, see the interpretive sign about Pacific salmon found in the Skagit River. Follow the trail south along the bank and see many species of native plants planted by volunteers at past Earth Day events. Just before the trail turns back toward the west, you’ll see the north end of the side channel. If there is water in it, there are juvenile salmon in it! As you follow the trail you’ll come to an interpretive sign about the side channel. Following the trail back toward the north, you’ll come to a sign about the native plants at the park. As you meander behind the stage you’ll see areas where many volunteer groups have tackled the invasive English ivy that threatens the native plants in this area.
Celebrate Earth Day 2021 by continuing the effort against English ivy, this time at Samish Island Camp, on Saturday, April 24. This site, ancestral home to the Samish people, is still a place of cultural importance to them. Join us as we help maintain native habitat by removing English ivy. More information and registration HERE.
Google Map of Edgewater Park
https://goo.gl/maps/ySXQ9U1LUfSAsVH76
Mount Vernon Parks and Recreation Edgewater Park web page
