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Deconstruction of the Bateman Island causeway in southcentral Washington began on January 5 as part of efforts to restore the Yakima River Delta ecosystem, which has suffered from hindered fish passage and stagnant water for 86 years. The project, funded with $1.2 million from the Army Corps of Engineers, aims to improve juvenile salmon migration and is part of a broader 30-year initiative involving multiple agencies and the Yakama Nation Fisheries. Deconstruction is expected to continue through February, with no public access bridge planned due to cost concerns.