Bird sanctuary in works at Snohomish wetland

A former sewage lagoon site and wetlands is planned as a 40-acre refuge for more than 140 species of birds.

By Alejandro Dominquez, The Herald

SNOHOMISH — People are invited to learn the latest details about a proposed wildlife sanctuary at Wednesday’s Parks Board meeting, scheduled for 7 p.m. at the Snohomish Boys & Girls Club, 402 Second St.

The board is expected to make a recommendation to the City Council on the sanctuary steering committee’s plan or ask for changes. The public can also make recommendations, project manager Ann Stanton said.

The wildlife viewing area also has a proposed name: Snohomish Riverview Sanctuary.

The sanctuary would be about 40 acres, including a former sewage lagoon and privately owned wetlands located next to the current sewage treatment plant, along the Snohomish River west of Highway 9.

More than 140 bird species have been seen nesting there or using the wetlands for habitat, including great blue herons, red-tailed hawks, swallows and ducks.

The master plan also proposes adding sidewalk and viewpoint areas on the south side of Riverview Road, Stanton said.

The park would also ban dogs because of the likelihood of harming viewing opportunities and habitat quality, Stanton said.

“The majority of the public comments are against dogs (in the park)” Stanton said.

The Snohomish City Council is scheduled to vote on the plan at a July meeting.

The council is also set to accept a $30,000 donation from a local Audubon Society member in early June. The donation is intended to purchase more land for the sanctuary.

People who want to know more about the park and are unable to attend the meeting can contact Stanton at 360-282-3195 or by email at stanton@ci.snohomish.wa.us.