State approves Edmonds permit to do flood mitigation work on Perrinville Creek

EDMONDS — The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife issued a new permit to the city of Edmonds on Friday, allowing flood-prevention work to commence at a controversial flow diversion structure on Perrinville Creek.

The expedited permit, valid until Jan. 13, authorizes the city to use handheld tools to clear sediment, small branches, leaves and garbage away from the flow diversion structure located near 8235 Talbot Road to prevent flooding.

The permit approval is the latest update in a years-long debate over the creek’s route and management, involving past and present homeowners’ desires, city staff flooding concerns and biologists’ restoration dreams.

Critics of Edmonds’ management argue that instead of directly addressing the issue — that the structure cuts fish off from Puget Sound and degrading infrastructure poses safety hazards — the city continues to kick its obligations down the road.

https://www.heraldnet.com/news/state-approves-edmonds-permit-to-do-flood-mitigation-work-on-perrinville-creek/