Whiteman Cove Restoration

Whiteman Cove, located on the western shore of Case Inlet in south Puget Sound, has officially been restored to its original function as a shallow tidal estuary. The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has completed its multi-year restoration project, successfully removing a man-made fish passage barrier and reestablishing natural tidal exchange between Whiteman Cove and Case Inlet.

Historically, Whiteman Cove was a vibrant estuary protected by a natural isthmus, with tidal waters flowing in and out through a northwest opening. However, in 1962, the Washington State Department of Fisheries converted the estuary into a saltwater "lake" to rear young salmon. This conversion involved filling the natural inlet, constructing a roadway, and installing two large culverts to manage water flow. The estuary was cut off from the natural tides, and after the rearing facility was discontinued sometime after 1970, the system remained altered and ecologically degraded for decades.

Legal and Cultural Mandates for Restoration 

The restoration of Whiteman Cove was initiated in response to a 2013 federal court ruling in U.S. v. Washington, which reaffirmed the state’s obligation to ensure fish passage under treaties signed with Washington tribes in the mid-1800s. These treaties, including the 1854 Medicine Creek Treaty, guaranteed the signatory tribes the right to fish in their usual and accustomed areas. Whiteman Cove lies within the territory defined by that treaty.

The court required the state to remove barriers to fish passage for “all species of salmon at all life stages at all flows where the fish would naturally seek passage.” Structures like tide gates, culverts, dikes, and dams were identified as obstacles that must be addressed. Restoring Whiteman Cove’s natural tidal connection helps fulfill these treaty obligations and supports the recovery of endangered Southern Resident Orcas by improving habitat for Puget Sound salmon.

 Collaborative Planning and Design

DNR worked closely with Tribal governments, the YMCA (which operates Camp Colman on the cove), and local property owners to identify the best path forward. In 2020, a feasibility study led by Anchor QEA evaluated four restoration options, including various tide gate and weir structures, as well as open channel designs. Although a “fish-friendly” tide gate was considered at the YMCA’s request, it was determined that such a structure could not meet the court’s fish passage requirements or obtain necessary habitat permits.

Based on stakeholder feedback, DNR selected an open channel with a bridge to maintain road access to Camp Colman. This design meets ecological and legal standards, supports long-term habitat recovery, and ensures continued camp operations. The bridge preserves access without compromising environmental goals.

With the restoration complete, Whiteman Cove now experiences regular tidal flow. At low tide, the water level drops approximately six feet from its former elevation, creating the conditions needed for a healthy estuarine system. Tidal waters now flow through the northwest corner, mirroring the cove’s historical hydrology.

Early Signs of Ecological Reovery

In a promising sign of success, salmon have already been observed returning to the newly restored estuary. This early return validates years of careful planning, engineering, and ecological consultation. Restoring this habitat has been identified as a high priority by the South Sound Salmon Recovery Group and Wild Fish Conservancy, and these early results confirm its importance to regional recovery efforts. In addition to its ecological benefits, the restoration will help mitigate seasonal spikes in coliform bacteria levels, helping meet state water quality standards and improving safety for recreational use.

 Ongoing Commitment and Educational Opportunities

DNR is continuing to collaborate with Tribal partners, the YMCA of Greater Seattle, and local stakeholders to monitor the project’s outcomes and integrate the restored estuary into long-term educational efforts. Camp Colman now has a unique opportunity to offer hands-on environmental education about estuarine ecosystems, salmon lifecycles, and treaty rights, connecting youth directly with the land’s ecological and cultural significance. DNR remains committed to providing its expertise to assist the YMCA to incorporate the recovery of this significant natural ecosystem into the camp’s outdoor programs.