Comprehensive Flood Hazard Management Plan
The County-wide Comprehensive Flood Hazard Management Plan is a collaborative project led by Cowlitz County with assistance from local cities, diking districts, restoration specialists, community leaders, emergency responders and others. The project is funded with a grant through the Washington Department of Ecology.
Final Draft: Cowlitz County Comprehensive Flood Hazard Management Plan
Final Draft Flood Hazard Management Plan (PDF download link)
The goal of the CFHMP is to minimize the long-term risk to life and property from flooding. The CFHMP evaluates the risk and vulnerability to flooding and identifies mitigation actions the community can take to reduce the impacts of flooding. It also includes goals, objectives, and policies to support the local agencies when making decisions related to flooding.
After conclusion of a public comment period and final review by the Steering Committee in summer of 2023, the final CFHMP has been sent to the Department of Ecology for approval. The final Plan will be presented to the Board of County Commissioners and local governments for adoption after a public hearing- expected October-November 2023..
Please direct any questions or comments about the plan to Adam Trimble by calling 306-577-3052 x6664 or by emailing trimblea@cowlitzwa.gov
Annual Plan Maintenance
The CFHMP calls on local governments to meet at least annually to review the plan and mitigation initiatives and consider funding opportunities to address needs.
Updating Prior Flood Management Plans
The product is an actionable ten year management plan that identifies vulnerable areas and potential solutions to reduce loss of life and property due to flooding and inundation. Timeline for adoption is November 2023.
Learn more:
Frequently Asked Questions:
Safety and Preparedness
Information on Floodplain regulation, safety and planning can be found here.
Flood Hazard Map Application for Cowlitz County:
This map tool uses several modeling techniques to estimate flood risks and is a useful resource to learn more about flood hazards. Contact Building and Planning with questions for areas in Cowlitz County Jurisdiction.
Interactive Map of Watersheds and City and Diking District Boundaries:
https://cowlitz.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=b7fcdd528cf44a2a9ed9688870292297Below: Illustration of Columbia River levels during historic flood events
Below: 1933 photo of flooding in North Kelso [used with permission from Cowlitz County Historical Museum for this purpose only.]