FSP’s engineers worked with the Quinault Indian Nation to develop a feasibility study to determine how best to improve fish passage around the existing weir barrier that would offer the least amount of stress handling and delay. The preferred concept included a vertical slot fish passage structure designed around the existing facility to maximize existing infrastructure. The new feasibility design not only incorporated passing fish around the weir barrier but addressed intake concerns by developing a functioning sluiceway to reduce debris build up on the screen while making the screen system operable at greater water surface ranges.

FSP’s engineers provided an analysis that encompassed water usage of the facility in comparison with river flows, return timing of adult’s intake, screening cleaning systems, passage design flows, and affected fish species. The feasibility report contained a figure describing the improvements an opinion of probable construction cost and construction schedule. The feasibility study supported the proposed design providing information for a grant application to secure funding.

The Quinault Indian Nation incorporated the feasibility study into a grant proposal and were selected the No. 1 project for 2009 grant funding.

FSP’s engineers developed plans and specifications for the new passage, provided construction assistance services, and continue to assist the QIN at their Salmon River Facility.  The construction of the Salmon River Diversion – Passage Facility was completed in 2011.