A new organization called Schmitz Park Creek Restore held its first meeting May 7 at the home of well known West Seattle photographer Art Wolfe. Presentations by Wolfe and organization co-chairs Daniel Nye and Brian Barrileaux showed the current state of the park, it's history and notable species and shared the group's plan to restore the creek. While these are early days in their plan they hope to "daylight" the creek which was routed into a culvert at 57th SW and SW Stevens decades ago.

Westside Seattle published a profile on Vicki Schmitz who shared much of the history of the park and her family's involvement here.

The culvert into which the Schmitz Park Creek currently flows at 57th SW and SW Stevens street. Photo by Patrick Robinson

 

The group shared a description of their effort here:

START BY RESTORING WHAT'S LEFT OF WHAT WAS

"Today marks a significant milestone for environmental conservation inWest Seattle as residents and volunteers gather for the inaugural meeting of the Schmitz Creek Park Restore initiative. This collaborative effort, aimed at preserving and rejuvenating the natural beauty of Schmitz Creek Park, brings together passionate individuals dedicated to restoring the fish, forest, creek, cove, and overall ecological health of this cherished community asset.

Since its generous donation to the City by the esteemed Schmitz family in 1908, Schmitz Creek Park has served as a vital green space, offering solace, recreation, and inspiration to countless individuals. However, the effects of urbanization and benign neglect have taken their toll on this ecosystem, necessitating action from concerned citizens.

Led by dedicated volunteers and bolstered by the support of local authorities, the Schmitz Creek Park Restore initiative aims to address environmental degradation, restore vital fish habitats, rejuvenate the torest canopy, preserve the creek's integrity, and sateguard the scenic cove. In partnership with Restore Schmitz Park, the initiative seeks to harness community engagement for maximum effect.

The restoration of Schmitz Creek Park represents a crucial step towards preserving our natural heritage and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come,* says Brian Barilleaux, spokesperson for the Schmitz Creek Park Restore initiative. "By joining forces with fellow residents and volunteers, we have the opportunity to make a tangible difference in our community and leave a lasting legacy of environmental stewardship."

Today's inaugural meeting serves as a platform for stakeholders to come together, share ideas, and outline a comprehensive restoration plan.

Community members of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to participate, contribute their expertise, and lend a helping hand to this worthy cause.

We envision a revitalized Schmitz Creek Park that not only showcases the beauty of nature but also fosters a sense of connection and belonging within our community. "We can all start by restoring what's left of what was, as Co-Chair Dan Nye puts it. "Let's get together over English Ivy, make the plan, make folks aware and make it happen; we can turn this vision into reality and create a greener, healthier future for Alki."

For information about the Schmitz Creek Park Restore initiative and how to get involved, please contact SchmitzParkCreekRestore@gmail.com.

Join us as we embark on this transformative journey to restore, renew, and reconnect with ancient and historic nature, at Schmitz Park Reserve."

Westside Seattle will do follow up story on this effort in the near future.

Co-Chair Dan Nye presented the plan. Photo by Patrick Robinson