Snohomish County Issues Warning Notice to Diking District 1

Snohomish County has issued a warning notice to Diking District 1 (DD1) following reports of unpermitted fill and grading activities that may have altered the dike structure over several years. County staff from Planning and Development Services (PDS) and Surface Water Management (SWM) are currently investigating the situation, using aerial photography and LIDAR imagery to assess the changes. These modifications could threaten local wetlands and critical shoreline areas while exacerbating flood risks for adjacent neighborhoods. Diking Districts, including DD1, play an essential role in managing flood risks, and typically, major projects are conducted in coordination with the county. The county's warning letter outlines the observed changes and encourages DD1 to engage in dialogue regarding the situation and potential corrective measures.

This incident highlights the importance of regulatory compliance in flood management and the necessity of maintaining open communication between districts and county authorities. As the investigation unfolds, the county aims to determine the extent of violations and appropriate remedies. The situation serves as a reminder of the critical balance needed between infrastructure development and environmental protection.