Construction is starting on the final culvert replacement project along Crystal Springs Creek – replacement of the Bybee and Glenwood culverts.  The two culverts that carry the creek under SE Bybee Boulevard and SE Glenwood Street are the last two that impede fish passage along the 2.7 mile creek.  

Other projects since 2008 have replaced six of the nine culverts and removed one. 

Environmental Services and partners started the Crystal Springs restoration effort in 2008 to help native salmon and other fish.  Replacing old, undersized culverts helps improve the flow of water, water quality and habitat.  This is especially important for juvenile salmon and trout species, which rely on the cool, consistent flows of Crystal Springs for rearing and spawning throughout the year.  Many other agencies, community partners, and volunteers are helping with the restoration. 

In 2014 and 2015, coho salmon started returning to the creek to spawn.

Construction will last through late October. Most of the work will take place during the in-water work window of July 15 through August 31.  Find more details and sign up for construction updates on the project webpage. 

You can also find out more about Crystal Springs and how to get involved in the community effort at www.crystalspringspdx.org.