The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), in partnership with the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, is conducting an aquatic ecosystem restoration study to improve fish passage and water quality along Mill Creek in Walla Walla, Washington. The study focuses on identifying and addressing physical and thermal barriers affecting ESA-listed mid-Columbia River steelhead and bull trout, as well as reintroduced Chinook salmon.

Building on ongoing and planned fish passage improvements within the Mill Creek Flood Control Project (MCFCP), the study aims to enhance connectivity to approximately 26 miles of upstream spawning and rearing habitat. Authorized under Section 206 of the Continuing Authorities Program (CAP), it involves coordination with key stakeholders, including local and state agencies, tribal nations, and conservation organizations. The study will assess past USACE and sponsor-led projects within the Mill Creek system and explore opportunities for further enhancement, considering environmental, engineering, and cost constraints.

Public Scoping Comments:

The USACE is soliciting public and agency comments regarding the scope of the Umatilla Mill Creek Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration project. These comments would be utilized to identify concerns, opportunities, and potential alternatives to meet the study objectives and constraints.

Comments will be accepted from Apr. 14 through Apr. 28, 2025. Information about the study is provided via PowerPoint presentation within the “Links” on the right-hand side of this webpage.

How can I comment?

There are several ways that you can provide input on this study.

You can submit a comment through the NEPA Online Comment Form, https://www.nww.usace.army.mil/EnvironmentalComplianceComment/ or by emailing NEPANWW@usace.army.mil, inserting “Umatilla Mill Creek Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration” in the subject line.

You may submit written comments via U.S. Mail to:

Comments need to be submitted or postmarked no later than April 28, 2025 for consideration.  All comments submitted will be considered and become part of the public record.

For more information on the public meetings or about this study, please contact Austen Whelan at Austen.P.Whelan@usace.army.mil.