Building Fish Passages for Wildlife Preservation in WA

Fish passage barriers have become a critical environmental challenge, threatening the survival of local fish populations by blocking access to traditional spawning and rearing areas. Among the most effective solutions are the correction of human-made barriers and the implementation of proper screening for surface water diversions. The Schoolyard River project exemplifies this vital work, featuring a concrete passage measuring 24 inches wide by 77 inches long that now enables migratory species to return to their native spawning grounds, actively contributing to species restoration.

As part of Washington State Department of Transportation’s comprehensive initiative to install hundreds of wildlife-preserving fish passages statewide, Tunista Construction partnered with Kiewit Construction through the Washington State Mentor Protégé program. This collaboration saw Tunista leading the Schoolyard Creek Fish Passage while Kiewit handled the Trafton Creek Fish Passage installation several miles south of State Route 530.

The project presented complex engineering and environmental challenges. The team constructed a temporary lane diversion, or “shoofly,” adjacent to five designated wetlands while maintaining strict environmental protections. The process involved meticulous fish preservation measures, including installation of seine netting, electrical fish stunning for safe removal, and temporary species relocation. Throughout construction, the team maintained continuous environmental monitoring of the diverted stream.

Major components of the project included:

• Removal of an existing steel pipe culvert (5 feet diameter by 80 inches long)
• Installation of precast concrete box culvert modular assemblies with wingwalls, totaling nearly one million pounds
• SR530 reinforcement and structural build-up
• Installation of new paving and guardrails
• Removal of the temporary diversion
• Complete site restoration and landscaping

Through careful planning and execution, this project demonstrates Tunista Construction’s commitment to environmental preservation while successfully delivering complex infrastructure improvements. The restored fish passage now serves as a crucial link in the regional ecosystem, supporting the recovery of native fish populations.