1.) Where can projects be implemented?
Answer: Projects can be implemented within the watersheds, shorelines, or marine waters of the Puget Sound, Hood Canal, Strait of Juan De Fuca, or Rosario Straits.
2.) How much will the Corps of Engineers fund to implement projects?
Answer: The program provides for the Corps of Engineers to fund up to 65% of the total cost to implement projects. The funds are combined with the local sponsor's contributions by the Corps of Engineers to accomplish site restoration after a project cooperative agreement is signed.
3.) Who can sponsor a project within the Puget Sound and Adjacent Waters program?
Answer: A local sponsor can be Native American tribal governments, port authorities, cities, counties, and State of Washington agencies. Essentially a general-purpose government may be a non-federal sponsor for this program. Non-profit organizations who advocate for projects may work through their local government to implement projects with us.
4.) What responsibilities does a sponsor have during project implementation within the program?
Answer: Sponsors actively participate during project planning, design, construction, operations and maintenance. Their responsibilities change as the project progresses through the stages of implementation. Sponsors contribute 35 percent of the total project costs for planning, design and construction. They earn credit for real-estate value they own, in-kind services they perform and money they contribute. After construction is completed, sponsors are responsible for 100 percent of operations, maintenance, repair, rehabilitation, and replacement of the restored and preserved site.
5.) What are the initial projects?
Answer: There are four initial projects proposed for implementation: Seahurst Park Shoreline Ecosystem Restoration, Skokomish River Estuary Restoration, Lake Washington Sockeye Salmon Restoration (Beach Nourishment), and Marine Ecosystem Restoration (Derelict Gear, Vessels and Debris).
6.) Will there be more projects implemented after the initial ones listed?
Answer: The Corps of Engineers implements projects with the Puget Sound and Adjacent Waters Restoration Program authority based on funds available. After consulting with authorized local and federal stakeholders, the Corps will select projects to implement.
7.) How long will the program exist?
Answer: The authorizing language states the program will remain while the authorized funds -- $40,000,000 -- are unexpended. Essentially, the program is not limited by time.
8.) Why is the program necessary in Puget Sound?
Answer: The cumulative effects of human development have damaged the Puget Sound ecosystem. People now realize that human health is linked to ecosystem health. The Puget Sound and Adjacent Waters Restoration Program -- by implementing a series of individual projects in partnership with local sponsors -- will cumulatively contribute to restoration of Puget Sound health.
9.) Will the project have any economic impact?
Answer: Projects are selected because of ecological benefits. Economic benefits are not explicitly evaluated. The Corps' civil works authorities--including Puget Sound and Adjacent Waters Restoration Program--do allow for limited recreational features that are compatible with the project ecological goals. Local sponsors often report that restoration projects contribute to the economic vitality of their communities, particularly with nearby opportunities for walking and nature watching.
10.) Who do I contact about sponsoring a project or for additional information?
Answer: For assistance or general questions and comments contact Seattle District's Civil Works Branch at 1-855-828-7015, or by email at NWSCivilWorks@usace.army.mil.