The Valley Creek Estuary and Park were created as mitigation to fill the K-Ply log pond. The Department of Fisheries’ goal of achieving no net loss of productive capacity of habitat of fish and shellfish resources included even a stagnant manmade pond. The process of filling the K-Ply pond enabled K-Ply to realize greater efficiencies in their storage area, and allowed them to expand operations and increase employment. The Port of Port Angeles and the City of Port Angeles signed interlocal agreements in 1994 and 1997, allowing this $1,262,000 project to move forward. Soroptimist International of Port Angeles and the Port of Port Angeles signed a letter of agreement on June 7, 1996 as Valley Creek Community Support Leaders.

The estuary is a result of the entire community’s volunteer effort, in time and monetary support. Over 800 feet of Valley Creek was unearthed. Wildlife has reclaimed the area. The creation of a new park has increased public access to the waterfront, and the waterfront trail, a popular downtown attraction, has been extended.