Stillaguamish River, Cook (Koch) Slough to close to fishing

July 12, 2011

Action: Close Cook (Koch) Slough (a channel of the Stillaguamish River), the North Meander, and the Stillaguamish River from where Cook Slough rejoins the Stillaguamish to 1,000 feet downstream to fishing.

Effective dates: July 18 through Oct. 15, 2011.

Species affected: All fish.

Closure location details:

All of Cook (Koch) Slough ( the South channel of the Stillaguamish River/including all waters of the barrier/diversion dam channel). The closure begins approximately 1/2 mile West of Interstate 5), 350 feet upstream of the barrier/diversion dam and continues approximately 3.5 river miles to the downstream confluence with the Stillaguamish River.
The North Meander, a side channel that connects the mainstem Stillaguamish (at Hevly Road) with Cook Slough.
The Stillaguamish River, from the downstream confluence with Cook Slough (below the westernmost Silvana RR bridge) to 1000 feet downstream.

Reason for action: The repair of an in-stream weir and fish ladder on Cook Slough require the installation of a cofferdam upstream of the weir and restriction of flows to 30 cubic feet per second through Cook Slough. A fish exclusion device at the downstream end will prevent fish from entering Cook Slough.

Other Information: If work finishes before Oct. 15 and flows are restored Cook Slough will reopen before Oct. 15.

Information contacts: Jennifer Whitney, District 13 fish biologist, (425) 775-1311; Annette Hoffmann, Region 4 Fish Program manager, (425) 775-1311.

Fishers must have a current Washington fishing license, appropriate to the fishery. Check the WDFW "Fishing in Washington" rules pamphlet for details on definitions and regulations. Fishing rules are subject to change. Visit wdfw.wa.gov/fishing-hotlines to find a list of mobile, web, print, or customer service phone options for the latest rule information.

Request this information in an alternative format or language at wdfw.wa.gov/accessibility/requests-accommodation, 833-885-1012, TTY (711), or CivilRightsTeam@dfw.wa.gov.