VIDEO: Finding solutions for the Chehalis basin

Oct. 24 UPDATE: We have decided to extend the public comment period for the Chehalis Basin Strategy environmental review after receiving five requests for an extension. The new closing date for the public comment period is Nov. 14, 2016

The Chehalis River Basin is at a turning point. In recent years, the basin has experienced extreme and frequent flooding, and it may experience larger floods more often in the future. Habitat for aquatic species is significantly degraded and, if action is not taken, is expected to decline further. We're working with the community to address these issues.

We are currently taking comments on our environmental review of solutions proposed for the basin. Learn more in this video, and join us at public hearings to share your feedback.

With a new environmental report out for public review, now is the time for you to get involved and engage on potential ways to restore aquatic habitat and reduce flooding throughout the Chehalis River Basin in southwest Washington.

Submit comments online now.

Comments now being accepted on environmental review

We have completed a draft environmental report, officially called a programmatic Environmental Impact Statement, as part of a community effort to restore the basin and put it on a path to recovery. The environmental review evaluates four basin-wide options that were developed and submitted to Ecology by the community to address these problems.
 

Graphic image of person with hands out to sides with comment bubble above their head.

Join us in person at upcoming public hearings

Come join us in person to learn more and share your feedback at public hearings.

Open houses begin at 6:00 p.m. followed by a presentation at 6:30 p.m. and a public hearing at 7:00 p.m.

Tuesday, Oct. 18 at 6 p.m.
Veterans Memorial Museum
100 S.W. Veterans Way
Chehalis, WA 98532
Thursday, Oct. 27 at 6 p.m.
Montesano City Hall
112 N. Main Street
Montesano, WA 98563


Comments will be accepted through Nov. 14, 2016. Learn more, read the report and submit your comments online at chehalisbasinstrategy.com.
 

SEPA: Washington's environmental protection law

The State Environmental Policy Act (often called SEPA) gives a formal process to identify and assess possible environmental effects of a proposal before deciding how to proceed.

Brownish-red newt walking across mossy terrain in foreground with unfocused water and greenery in background.
Your feedback helps Ecology understand how a proposed action would affect people and the environment. Learn more about SEPA on our website.