10/30/2025
In September, members of the Northwest Science Writers Association journeyed to the Olympic Peninsula to learn about the inspiring restoration of the Elwha River.
Our guide, Vanessa Castle, a member of the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe, shared powerful stories about her community’s deep connection to the river and how the removal of the river's two dams has brought both ecological renewal and spiritual healing.
At the river’s mouth, sand that had been locked behind the Elwha dams had returned to the beach, supporting rich habitat that attracted thousands of birds, who flocked overhead. Upstream, at the site of the former lower dam, we learned about the incredible feats of engineering that diverted the river and demolished the dams. And at the old reservoir site, Vanessa showed us how careful stewardship of the land by her people was helping native plant species to return and to help the river reclaim its natural, winding course.
We left the river humbled and filled with hope by the perseverance of nature, and the people who defend it.
