North Wind’s Weir, 2914 South 112th St. Tukwila, WA 98168

Owner: City of Tukwila

North Wind’s Weir is a 2.5 acre site which use to house derelict vehicles and old pallets. With a collaborative effort between agencies, municipalities and non-profit organizations this site has become a model of successful habitat restoration. It’s located at the critical transition zone of salt and freshwater mixing that is especially important to threatened salmon in the Green-Duwamish River watershed. Young salmon coming from higher in the Green-Duwamish River will feed, hide from predators and high river flows, and get used to salt water in the shallow waters of the project. Trees, shrubs and marsh plants will host insects that feed the young fish as they prepare for their lives in salt water.

Stewardship Partner

EarthCorps

When water levels are low, note the rocks off the north side of the bridge near the eastern shore. This is a Native American cultural site known as North Wind’s Weir. According to Southern Puget Sound Salish Epic of the Winds legend, there once was a war between the North Wind people and the Chinook Wind people who lived further up the Duwamish. North Wind covered the land with ice and snow, and stretched a dam of ice across the river to keep the salmon from running upstream and therefore starve the Chinook Wind people. Eventually, Storm Wind melted the ice weir with its remnants turned to stone, and the ice and snow retreated. Click here for a complete version of the North Wind’s Legend.

There is a short walking trail with signage around the perimeter of the site. Cecil Moses Park is just across the river and at the northern end of the Green River Trail, a 19 mile trail stretching from the park south to North Green River Park in south Kent near Auburn. The trail provides excellent views and access to the Green-Duwamish River and surrounding river valley. Parking is available at the north end of the park with restroom facilities during spring, summer and fall seasons.

It is possible to launch a kayak, depending on the tidal level of the river. This location is affected by tidal action.

This is a wonderful area to view the wildlife that has come back since the restoration of habitat:
  • Blue Herons can be seen at low tide feeding on fish among the rocks
  • Bald Eagles nest just down river in the large trees on the west bank
  • Salmon in their juvenile stage rest in the inlets on both sides of the river during their spring journey to Puget Sound, while as adults they can be seen returning in September through January.
  • Depending on the time of year, many other shore birds can be seen as well.

EarthCorps
206-322-9296 x 217
volunteer@earthcorps.org