Snohomish County Issues Warning Notice to Diking District 1

Snohomish County's Department of Planning and Development Services has issued a warning to Diking District 1 after discovering unpermitted fill and grading activities on a dike on Ebey Island. Reports indicated that the district may have expanded the dike's width and elevation over multiple years without the required permits, raising alarms about potential environmental impacts. According to preliminary investigations, the unauthorized modifications could threaten local wetlands and increase flood risks for adjacent neighborhoods. Diking Districts are tasked with managing flood risks and typically collaborate with the county on significant projects, making these unpermitted actions an anomaly. The county is actively assessing the situation using aerial photography and LIDAR imagery to understand the full extent of the violations.

A warning letter has been sent to initiate discussions about corrective actions and compliance with regulations. This proactive approach reflects Snohomish County's commitment to responsible and sustainable floodplain management. Ensuring adherence to these regulations is crucial for safeguarding both community safety and ecological integrity.