WA Ecology Blog

Seasonal Technicians Survey Washington Streams and Rivers

Washington State Department of Ecology is recruiting seasonal watershed health technicians to survey streams and rivers statewide during summer 2026. Crews collect physical, biological, and chemical data on water quality, stream structure, invertebrates, and fish presence. Many former technicians have advanced to environmental science careers including fisheries scientists and aquatic invasive species prevention biologists.

Wood Stove Grant Program Reduces Air Pollution

Washington State Department of Ecology published a blog post highlighting the success of its Wood Smoke Reduction Grant Program, which began in 2005. The program has distributed over $30 million to local clean air agencies and helped replace, buy back, or recycle nearly 13,000 old, uncertified wood stoves. The grants are available on a competitive basis, distributing $3-4 million per biennium, to reduce PM 2.5 particle pollution during winter months.

Grants for improving, restoring, protecting Puget Sound stream habitats

Washington State Department of Ecology announced a competitive grant program for Puget Sound riparian habitat restoration. Approximately $3 million in federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding is available through awards of $150,000 to $600,000 per project. Eligible applicants include local governments, Tribes, academic institutions, and nonprofit organizations seeking to improve, restore, and protect stream and river habitats in the Puget Sound region.

Scuba diver Ben Prueitt protects Columbia River at Hanford

The Washington State Department of Ecology featured Ben Prueitt, a Community Outreach and Environmental Education Specialist in the Nuclear Waste Program, in a staff profile article. Prueitt's work focuses on educating the public about Hanford cleanup operations and protecting the Columbia River and groundwater. The article traces his career path from marine science and professional scuba diving to his current role coordinating events with schools and community groups.

Washington Air Quality Report on Overburdened Communities

A new report from WA Ecology and the Department of Health indicates improved air quality in Washington's most overburdened communities. While disparities persist, the findings are influenced by reduced wildfire activity and lighter traffic, and will inform future rulemaking under the Climate Commitment Act.

Capitol Lake Estuary Restoration Project

The Washington State Department of Ecology is highlighting its role in the Capitol Lake estuary restoration project. The project aims to improve environmental health, public safety, and aquatic habitat by removing a dam built in the 1950s. The agency is partnering with various entities, including the Squaxin Island Tribe, to restore the waterway.

Washington State Ecology Grants for Landfill Methane Reduction

The Washington State Department of Ecology has awarded nearly $10 million in grants to 13 landfills to reduce methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas. These grants, funded by the Climate Commitment Act, support projects like upgrading gas collection systems and emissions monitoring, as mandated by a 2022 state law.

Lower Duwamish Waterway Cleanup Public Comment Periods

The Washington State Department of Ecology has opened three public comment periods related to the Lower Duwamish Waterway cleanup. These periods cover the Jorgensen Forge site, the South Park Marina site, and a new consent decree for the overall waterway cleanup, with comment periods running through April 22, 2026.

State Bike Grants Reduce Car Trips and Air Pollution

Washington State's Department of Ecology highlights successful bike grant projects in Shoreline, Tacoma, and Wenatchee. These projects, funded by the Climate Commitment Act, aim to reduce air pollution by encouraging cycling and limiting car trips in overburdened communities.

Ecology Grant Expands Stewart Mountain Community Forest

The Washington State Department of Ecology awarded a $5.5 million grant to expand the Stewart Mountain Community Forest by 1,600 acres. This funding, part of the state's Streamflow Restoration Act, supports water quality, forest preservation, and community ownership of the land.