Mill Creek Park | Walla Walla

Mill Creek Park in Walla Walla, Washington, is a significant multi-use recreational and environmental area, deeply intertwined with the region’s history of flood control and natural conservation. It serves not only as a vital infrastructure project designed to protect the city from devastating floods but also as a cherished community space offering extensive outdoor activities, natural beauty, and wildlife habitats.

Historical Background and Flood Control Purpose

The origin of Mill Creek Park is directly linked to a major flooding event on March 31, 1931. On that day, heavy rains caused Mill Creek, which runs through Walla Walla, to overflow its banks, resulting in widespread damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure. This catastrophic flood highlighted the urgent need for a comprehensive flood control system to safeguard the city and its residents.

In response, the U.S. Congress passed the Flood Control Act of 1938, authorizing the Mill Creek Project. Construction began soon after, culminating in the completion of the project in 1942 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The project comprises several key components:

Mill Creek Diversion Dam: This dam diverts excess water flow during heavy rain events, helping regulate water volume and reduce downstream flooding.

Bennington Lake: Created as a reservoir, this man-made lake plays a crucial role in floodwater storage and control, acting as a buffer to absorb peak flows.

Canals and Levees: A network of canals, channels, and levees was constructed throughout the Mill Creek watershed to direct floodwaters safely away from populated areas.

This integrated system has proven remarkably effective. Since its completion, the Mill Creek Project has prevented an estimated $300 million in flood-related damages, providing a high level of security to the Walla Walla community.

Natural and Recreational Features

While the primary purpose of Mill Creek Park is flood control, it has evolved into a beloved public recreation area, offering a wide array of amenities and natural attractions.

Bennington Lake is a central feature of the park. It is a tranquil, 40-acre reservoir popular with anglers and boaters. The lake supports various fish species and offers opportunities for small watercraft activities during non-winter months.

Adjacent to the lake lies Rooks Park, an 18-acre park area offering picnic shelters, open grassy spaces, and playgrounds. It is a favored spot for families and community gatherings, providing accessible green space and scenic views near the water.

Mill Creek Park boasts over 20 miles of trails that weave through its landscape, appealing to hikers, joggers, and horseback riders. These trails vary in difficulty and length, winding through riparian woodlands, grasslands, and areas rich with native flora and fauna. The trails connect multiple park sections, including viewpoints of the diversion dam and access to quieter natural areas, making the park a destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Environmental and Wildlife Importance

The park supports a variety of habitats for local wildlife. Efforts by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, state agencies, and local volunteer groups have focused on habitat restoration and enhancement projects, particularly aimed at preserving endangered fish species native to the Mill Creek watershed. These projects include improving water quality, stabilizing stream banks, and maintaining natural vegetation corridors to support biodiversity.

Recent and Ongoing Improvements

Recognizing the dual importance of flood control and ecological health, significant upgrades and maintenance work have been underway. Beginning in 2024, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers initiated projects to modernize the flood management infrastructure and enhance fish habitat conditions. Key efforts include:

Replacing the boat ramp at Bennington Lake to improve public access and safety.

Draining Bennington Lake to facilitate construction and maintenance activities, scheduled to be fully drawn down by late summer 2024.

Reinforcing flood control structures, including levees and channels, to ensure long-term reliability against future flood events.

Temporary closures of certain park sections, including Kingfisher Trail and the pedestrian bridge near the dam, have been implemented during construction to protect public safety.

These investments underscore the commitment to preserving both the functional and recreational values of the park for generations to come.

Community Impact and Use

Mill Creek Park serves as an essential recreational resource for the Walla Walla community, attracting approximately 100,000 visitors annually. Its combination of natural scenery, outdoor activities, and flood safety functions enhances the quality of life in the region.

Visitors to the park engage in:

Picnicking and family outings at Rooks Park.

Hiking and horseback riding along the extensive trail network.

Fishing and boating on Bennington Lake.

Wildlife observation and photography in the diverse habitats.

The park also plays a role in local education and environmental awareness, with interpretive signage and community volunteer programs helping visitors understand the delicate balance between urban development, flood control, and ecosystem preservation.

Summary

Mill Creek Park in Walla Walla exemplifies a successful integration of critical infrastructure and public green space. Born out of necessity after a devastating flood, it has grown into a vital environmental and recreational asset. The park’s flood control structures protect the city while providing opportunities for residents and visitors to connect with nature through trails, lake activities, and picnic areas.

Ongoing efforts to maintain and improve the park’s infrastructure and habitats reflect a forward-looking approach that values both human safety and environmental stewardship. Mill Creek Park stands as a testament to the community’s resilience and its commitment to preserving natural resources while ensuring urban security.