Welcome to Skagit County

April 5th, 2010

Skagit County in full compliance with federal and state floodplain regulations

SKAGIT COUNTY - Skagit County Administrator Tim Holloran was recently notified by the Washington State Department of Ecology that Skagit County is in full compliance with federal and state floodplain regulations.

The letter also stated that in addition to being in compliance, Skagit County Code contains several excellent higher regulatory standards. During a recent Community Assistance Visit (CAV) in Skagit County 36 cases of possible violations were cited in Ecology's Field Inspection Report.

In the ensuing weeks, Skagit County worked closely with Ecology and provided documentation that cleared all but two cases which were later resolved. "This clears all of the findings identified in our October 7, 2009 letter an closes the CAV for Skagit County," said Charles L. Steele, Floodplain Management Specialist. "Our conclusion is that Skagit County is effectively regulating development in the County's flood hazard areas."

"The quality of your management and staff in floodplain matters is deserving of your high rating in FEMA's Community Rating System," said Steele.

Skagit County currently holds a rating of 4 in FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program Community Rating System, ranking 5th in the nation.

A major observation of Ecology is that Skagit County's agricultural preservation program has continued to be a very effective adjunct to the Skagit County's floodplain management program by continuing to allow only minimal development on farmlands which are, for the most part, part of the floodplain.

For further information, contact:

Dan Berentson
Communications Director
360-419-3461