King County sets hearings, seeks public input on proposed rules for wood placement in rivers

Meetings Jan. 25, 28, when public can learn more and comment on draft rules

The King County Department of Natural Resources and Parks (DNRP) is seeking public comments on a draft rule that describes procedures for considering recreational safety when placing large wood in rivers, which is done to improve habitat for fish and wildlife and stabilize stream banks.

The draft rule and supporting documents are available online at www.kingcounty.gov/environment/wlr.

DNRP has scheduled public hearings, Jan. 25 and 28, where the public can learn more about the proposed rule, and provide comments:

Monday, Jan. 25
10 a.m. – noon
 King County Library Service Center (administration building)
 960 Newport Way NW
 Issaquah, WA 98027

Thursday, Jan. 28
 6 – 8 p.m.
 Mercer View Community Center
 8236 SE 24th St.
 Mercer Island, WA 98040

An ordinance adopted by the King County Council directs DNRP to prepare a public rule establishing procedures that the agency will use to consider recreational safety issues when designing habitat or stream back stabilization projects involving placing large wood in King County rivers.

The rules also identify the procedures for public input on those projects that feature large wood elements in their design.

Comments may also be provided in writing.  Written comments must be received by DNRP no later than 5 p.m. on Feb. 19, 2010. Mail comments to:

Department of Natural Resources and Parks
 ATTN: Cathy Jimenez
201 South Jackson Street, Room 600
 Seattle, WA  98104-3855

OR

E-mail: Cathy.Jimenez@kingcounty.gov

For questions about the draft public rule, contact Janne Kaje at 206-205-8309 or janne.kaje@kingcounty.gov.

Related information

Large wood

King County Water and Land Resources