Cascade Creek

Historically, Cascade Creek on Orcas Island was the most significant salmon bearing stream in the San Juan Islands. Today the stream supports three anadromous species, coho, chum and sea run cutthroat, yet one hundred years of growth on the island has resulted in salmon without protected streams flows.

Three anadromous species spawn in the lower 200 yards of Cascade Creek downstream from a 30-foot waterfall. The Cascade Creek Watershed, most of which lies in Moran State Park, is an important recreational, educational and ecological resource. It is also an important domestic water source for the villages of Olga and Doe Bay and Rosario Resort on east Orcas Island.
Washington Water Trust recognizes the importance of supporting in stream and out of stream uses for existing and future water users. We are working with on island partners to secure healthy flows for Cascade Creek, while supporting out of stream use for Cascade Creek water.

Where:

Cascade Creek flows from Mountain Lake on Mt. Constitution into Buck Bay on East Orcas Island. The watershed lies within San Juan County.

What:

Working with community partners to protect stream flows for the last salmon-bearing stream in the San Juan Islands while supporting domestic, out of stream water use.

Who:

Partners and stakeholders include Olga Water Users Association, Doe Bay Water Users Association, Rosario Resort, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, Washington Department of Ecology, San Juan County and Orcas Island Community Foundation

Why:

Cascade Creek is the most significant salmon bearing stream in the San Juan Islands and is threatened by seasonal low flows.

When:

Ongoing since 2007

Washington Water Trust

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Cascade Creek

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