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January 31, 2025
Partnering with immigrant and refugee communities to make it safer to fish
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.”
Above ground: A vibrant playground, ballfield, and picnic shelters. Below ground: Infrastructure that protects water quality
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.
Advancing climate resilience, offering more greenspace, restoring habitat with land conservation funding
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.
Mid-century modern magic meets national recognition
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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.
Social media spotlight
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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.
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Nobody’s going to remember the hustle, but they will remember how much you loved salmon.
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 “Diane, 11:30 a.m. Entering the town of Twin Peaks.”
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To subscribe to the The Evergreen, or to manage settings, please click here.
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