“Everyone needs a healthy watershed. It’s not just the Nisqually who need salmon, clean water, flood protection it’s everyone.” -Georgiana Kautz (Nisqually Tribe)

The natural ecosystems of the Nisqually Watershed provide many goods and services to its residents.  The Nisqually Tribe and others in the watershed have valued nature's gifts throughout their history.  The watershed is a truly unique and exceptional place because both ends of the watershed are protected areas - Mt. Rainier National Park and the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. Covering 720 square miles, the watershed spans Thruston, Pierce, and Lewis Counties and tribal and federal lands.

Earth Economics conducted a valuation of the ecosystem services provided by Nisqually Watershed ecosystems. Please read the report here:


The Natural Economy of the Nisqually Watershed