Almost Gone; Steel Wall Removal at Kus-kus-sum

January marked a major milestone at Kus-kus-sum with the start of steel retaining wall removal—the final major construction step in restoring the site to a functioning estuarine ecosystem.

The steel wall, which once isolated the site from the Courtenay River, played a temporary role protecting the river during the excavation, grading and planting phases of the project. With restoration complete, its removal allows river and tidal flow to return to the site.

Wall removal began on January 14, following the arrival of the barge on January 13. The work is being carried out by PPM Civil Constructors using a barge-mounted crane with a vibrating clamp, along with supporting marine and land-based equipment. After the steel cap connecting the panels is removed, each panel is secured to the vibrating clamp, loosened from the riverbed, and lifted onto the barge.

The panels are then transported to the north end of the site, where they are staged on land before being reused or recycled, depending on their condition. In areas where panels are compromised, divers are assisting with the removal of submerged sections. The section of the wall closest to the bridge will remain in place, and both this section and the south end of the site have been stabilized with riprap that has been placed under soils and vegetation.

We are pleased to share that the final steel panel was removed yesterday, February 12. The remaining task is to remove the pilings, which will be completed shortly. Crews are working 10 hour days, six days a week and will adjust this schedule as needed to complete the process within a window that minimizes risk to fish and wildlife. 

With the wall now removed, the next step is to complete planting the remaining tidal marsh species at the southern end of the site. Planting was paused last fall due to wet and muddy conditions, and we are excited to finish establishing this important habitat in the coming weeks.

We are deeply grateful to everyone who has shared photos and videos of this historic moment, and to the many community members, businesses, and contractors who have shown their support. This phase represents not just an engineering achievement, but the culmination of years of collaboration, learning, and collective effort.

Thank you to everyone who has helped bring Kus-kus-sum to this point—and to those who continue to support the final steps of this extraordinary restoration.