Agricultural drainage is emerging as one of the key barriers to agricultural viability in Pierce County. Most farmers report difficulties with on-farm drainage- whether it’s a problem with permitting, regulations, access to work crews, beavers, or impediments to flow caused by sedimentation or undersized culverts downstream- usually a combination of many factors.
The Farming in the Floodplain Project and partners are starting to look at options and alternatives for improved drainage assistance in Pierce County. We’re looking at how other counties address this issue and exploring potential solutions that could work in our Pierce County context.
Pierce County Drainage Task Force
County: Network Analysis- Clear Creek presentation 3-5-2020
County: Decision Support Tool Presentation 3-5-2020
For information about the 2019 Puget Sound Region Agricultural Drainage Conference, visit the Conference page.
Management Plans:
Whatcom County has well-organized “Watershed Improvement Districts” that manage agricultural drainage. Many have helpful resources that are accessible online.