Evergreen
January 31, 2025
*Partnering with immigrant and refugee communities to make it safer to fish*
Community-driven research makes fishing safer for immigrants and refugees
Our Water and Land Resources Division partnered with the Refugee Federation Service Center on a three-year study to identify safer fish to eat. By working directly with local fishers, researchers tested fish from unmonitored lakes and Puget Sound shorelines.
The findings provide clear recommendations on which fish are safer to consume.
“Our collaboration with the Refugee Federation Service Center and local fishers is part of our commitment to partnering with historically marginalized communities to address health and environmental challenges,” said Executive Constantine. “This collaborative research empowered communities with actionable guidance, helping families make safer, informed choices about the fish they catch and eat.”
*Watch the video * [ [link removed] ]
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Above ground: A vibrant playground, ballfield, and picnic shelters. Below ground: Infrastructure that protects water quality
How public parks can clean toxic runoff
132nd Square Park in Kirkland is more than just a playground, ballfield, and picnic space—it’s a model for how parks can also improve water quality. Beneath the surface, an underground filtration system cleans stormwater runoff, removing pollutants before they reach Totem Lake and Juanita Creek.
Executive Constantine recently toured the park with Kirkland city leaders and experts along with representatives from three of our four divisions – King County Parks, Water and Land Resources, and Wastewater Treatment – to explore how we can replicate this innovative approach countywide, prioritizing underserved communities.
*Read more* [ [link removed] ]
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Advancing climate resilience, offering more greenspace, restoring habitat with land conservation funding
Land conservation before and after
Executive Constantine announced $107 million in land conservation awards to protect more than 3,000 acres of open space across King County. These 53 projects will enhance climate resilience, expand greenspaces, restore habitat, and improve farmland access and recreation opportunities.
A few of the projects include helping the City of Kenmore transform convert industrial property into a riverfront landmark, permanently protecting the lowland forests of Camp Sealth on Vashon Island, creating more greenspace near affordable housing in Seattle’s Georgetown neighborhood, and helping a community-based organization create an urban farm near Sound Transit’s Rainier Beach Station.
*Read more* [ [link removed] ]
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Mid-century modern magic meets national recognition
Historic preservation program director stands with a national award
Our Historic Preservation Program has received national recognition for its innovative work protecting mid-century modern homes across King County. These architectural icons — known for their clean lines, open floor plans, and connection to nature — reflect the forward-thinking spirit of the post-war housing boom.
To help preserve these homes, our team developed a streamlined landmark designation process, making it easier for homeowners to protect their properties while accessing grants and tax incentives. This approach ensures that these mid-century gems remain part of our communities for generations to come.
*Read more* [ [link removed] ]
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Social media spotlight
Operators wearing safety vests featuring the King County logo. [ [link removed] ]
We’re proud to serve the nation’s only county that carries Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s name and work every day to honor his legacy.
*Watch the video* [ [link removed] ]
What people will remember you for: how much you appreciated salmon [ [link removed] ]
Nobody’s going to remember the hustle, but they will remember how much you loved salmon.
*See the post* [ [link removed] ]
North Bend surrealist scene featuring the Three Forks and Mountain. [ [link removed] ]
“Diane, 11:30 a.m. Entering the town of Twin Peaks.”
*Watch the video* [ [link removed] ]
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