Our mission is to provide environmental planning, land management, public outreach and project delivery and watershed services in support of Surface Water Management Division.
Like any private developer, Surface Water Management must obtain local, state and federal environmental permits for projects it conducts in and around water. Program Services Section staff evaluates, process and ensure compliance with these requirements for Program projects.
Program Services Section staff conduct comprehensive, integrated surface water management plans for each of Pierce County's 26 basins. The plans are updates to Pierce County's 1991 Surface Water Management Plan. They direct the capital projects and programmatic activities of the Surface Water Management. The Section applies a multi-disciplinary approach involving engineering, planning, and natural resource management to the basin planning function.
Program Services Section staff assist and track implementation of Watershed Action Plans developed under the state's WAC 400-12 process. Four Watershed Action Plans have been developed: Chambers-Clover, Lower Puyallup, Key Peninsula-Gig harbor-Islands, and the Upper Puyallup. The action plans address sources of nonpoint source pollution and beneficial uses of water. In tracking implementation, staff work and support local the Puyallup River Watershed Council, the Chambers/Clover Watershed Council, and the KGI Watershed Council.
Section staff serve as Pierce County Lead Entity under the state's Salmon Recovery Act (2496) process. Staff coordinates and support local committees and sponsors developing salmon habitat restoration projects for funding by the state's Salmon Recovery Funding Board for WRIAs 10 and 12 and provide technical assistance to the Kitsap Lead Entity in WRIA 15. Staff also provides biological expertise on in-water projects and mitigation plans.
Section staff coordinate, track and assist in acquiring and managing properties under Surface Water Management ownership. This includes exploring wetlands mitigation bank opportunities, nearshore assessment, partnering with conservation groups, and researching multiple use of our properties.
Programs Services Section staff conduct outreach activities to SWM rate payers to enhance accountability, prepare displays and materials on flood control, water quality and floodplain habitat, and participate at public events to serve the public.
Section staff also provides stormwater quality policy assistance, shellfish bed closure responses, water quality monitoring, and stakeholder and agency services.
