Many natural areas were converted to residential and commercial properties throughout the history of the Thornton Creek Watershed.  However, in the places that were preserved, invasive nonnative plants are one of the major problems.  Seattle Parks and Recreation and SPU, with support from community groups and nonprofit organizations have undertaken the massive task of removing invasives such as english ivy and himalayan blackberry and planting native vegetation such as western red cedar, salmonberry, and sword fern.  SPU and Parks have also added large woody debris to the creek and planted many native riparian plants. Thorton Creek Park #6, across from Northgate Mall is a great place to see this restoration.

Become a Creek Steward and help out with this effort.  Visit the SPU Creek Steward website.

Learn more about the City's Pinehurst Natural Drainage Project too!

Thornton Creek Watershed Virtual Tour

An online look at a living urban watershed

Explore
Thornton
Creek!

South Fork

North Fork

Main Branch

History

Ecology