Water Quality: Whatcom Creek and its tributaries are listed on the Washington Department of Ecology's 303(d) list as impaired for temperature, fecal coliform, and dissolved oxygen levels.

Pollution: The main sources of pollution in the Whatcom Creek Watershed are attributed to human and animal waste and failing septic systems in the Lake Whatcom watershed.

Major Issues: Whatcom Creek flows 2.5 miles through Whatcom Falls Park, the site of the 1999 pipeline explosion, which significantly changed conditions along the creek. Although restoration projects have reduced the damage done by the explosion and fire, complete recovery will take time.

Fish and Wildlife: Whatcom Creek provides good habitat for Chinook, coho, chum, steelhead and resident trout.

Schools within the Watershed:The schools within Whatcom Creek Watershed include Assumption Catholic, Bellingham High,Carl Cozier, Explorations Academy, Kulshan Middle School, Northwest Family School, Roosevelt Elementary, Sunnyland Elementary, and Whatcom Middle School.

Interesting Facts:

• There is one dam in Whatcom Creek.
• The largest tributaries to Whatcom Creek are Lincoln Creek, Hannah Creek, and Fever Creek.
• The Whatcom Creek basin provides nearly 4 miles of accessible salmon habitat downstream of Lake Whatcom.
• Whatcom Creek is part of NSEA's Stream Stewards program.