The Drayton Harbor Watershed, located in
Blaine, encompasses about 56 square miles. Dakota Creek and California
Creek are the two major tributaries of Drayton Harbor Watershed. The
primary land use in this area is agriculture but also includes forestry,
residential, commercial, industrial and urban uses.
Water Quality: Dakota and California Creek both have high levels of fecal coliform. Dakota Creek has strong fish runs, while California Creek is experiencing lower numbers due to cattle damage. The Drayton Harbor Watershed has some bacterial contamination of shellfish along with high cadmium levels which can diminish plant life and contaminate shellfish. Fish and Wildlife: Drayton Harbor Watershed provides habitat for coho, chum, Chinook, steelhead, and cutthroat trout. It is also home to a variety of shellfish and birds. Pollution Sources: There are several sources of pollution in the Drayton Harbor Watershed including leaking septic systems, urban runoff, marinas, motorboats, industrial runoff, and agricultural runoff (there are many dairy farms in the watershed). Future sources of pollution include agricultural expansion, increased septic system decay, and increased urban runoff problems from urbanization. Major Watershed Issues: The Drayton Harbor Watershed is a very productive area for fish, birds, and shellfish. Water quality degradation in the watershed is threatening shellfish beds that are certified for commercial harvest. Failed septic systems are a constant source of pollution along Drayton Harbor and nearby tributary streams. Urban runoff from Blaine is also becoming an increased problem within these areas. Interesting Facts: Dakota Creek is one of the most productive salmon streams in the state, with fish enhancement programs still operating. The City of Blaine has applied for a groundwater management grant for the area. Restoration Projects: In 2008, NSEA replaced culverts that prevented salmon from swimming further upstream with a bridge on Dakota Creek.  |