The Restoration of ka’qsxW, also known as Sweetgrass (Schoenoplectus pungens), in the Nisqually Delta: The case study of a basketry plant

In 2009, the Brown Farm Dike was removed in the Nisqually Delta resulting in the largest estuary restoration project in the Pacific Northwest through the reconnection of 308 hectares of reclaimed farmland with the natural tidal flow of the Puget Sound. The Nisqually Indian Tribe is an important partner in the restoration effort focusing on the restoration of 52 hectares on the east side of the Nisqually River.

S. pungens is a culturally significant plant used in basketry that is common in wetlands across the United States. Typically, factors such as edibility and material use are not considered in restoration projects. The restoration of Schoenoplectus pungens in the Nisqually Delta is highly desired by the Nisqually Indian Tribe to reestablish a local gathering ground for this plant. This study aims to evaluate the restoration potential for this plant within the estuary through the monitoring of planted stands in the area. Vegetative and site analysis of the estuary were done identifying local plant communities and the conditions for further site restoration.