The Lake Ewauna Wellness Project aims to turn one of the few underdeveloped downtown lakefronts in the country into a destination for wildlife and community.
KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. – A major transformation is on the horizon for the Klamath Basin that could reshape the landscape.
The Lake Ewauna Wellness Project aims to turn one of the few underdeveloped downtown lakefronts in the country into a destination for wildlife and community. The lake is fed by Upper Klamath Lake via the Link River.
“It’s more than just a wetland restoration for us,” said Randy Cox, CEO of the Klamath County Economic Development Association. “It’s to create habitat for wildlife education, recreation, and also the opportunity for people to get connected to nature.”
Levee work is underway to support equipment for construction this fall. (Credit: Danny Stipanovich)
For more than a century, the area has struggled with poor water quality and degraded habitat. County leaders say that’s about to change.
Mark Johnson, agricultural projects coordinator for the Klamath Watershed Partnership, said this whole area used to be a huge wetland.
It was often referred to as the Everglades of the West. The project will remove invasive plants, restore native vegetation and reestablish natural water flow across more than 60 acres of former agricultural land.
Johnson said it’s going to give the area another 60 acres of functioning wetland that helps with water quality, fish and wildlife habitat and groundwater recharge.
Engineers are designing islands and bringing diverse wetland vegetation to support birds, turtles, fish and other wildlife. The project also includes walking trails, kayak and paddleboard routes and signage to educate the community.
“It’s so close to town, you can actually walk to it and enjoy wildlife and nature,” Cox said. “You’re right outside your downtown and also get an opportunity to get some exercise and improve mental health.”
Work is underway to support equipment for construction this fall.
Danny Stipanovich is a multimedia journalist at NewsWatch 12. You can reach Danny by emailing dstipanovich@kdrv.com.
