Nature and recreation

Preserve, Protect, Prosper Join King County Department of Natural Resources and Parks as we celebrate the 54th Anniversary of Earth Day!

A technical manual detailing stormwater management requirements for parcel development in King County, WA. Also applicable in any other municipalities that have adopted this manual. At present the most current version is the 2021 Surface Water Design Manual (amended 2024).

A technical manual detailing stormwater management requirements for parcel development in King County, WA. Also applicable in any other municipalities that have adopted this manual. At present the most current version is the 2021 Surface Water Design Manual (amended 2024).

A technical manual detailing stormwater management requirements for parcel development in King County, WA. Also applicable in any other municipalities that have adopted this manual. 

A technical manual detailing stormwater management requirements for parcel development in King County, WA. Also applicable in any other municipalities that have adopted this manual. At present this 2024 amendment to the 2021 SWDM is the most current version.

Noxious weeds are found everywhere in King County: in urban, suburban and rural areas; on developed and undeveloped land; in gardens, farmland, forests and natural areas, as well as in lakes, rivers, streams and in Puget Sound. Weeds are everyone's problem, directly or indirectly. 

Our Mission and Units

Resources for improving drainage on agricultural properties.

Services for farmers in King County.

Roster of current commissioners and their terms

We do tests that help to make sure water treated by wastewater treatment plants meets compliance permit limits. We test lake samples to protect the public and pets from toxic algae blooms and we track the phytoplankton living in the Puget Sound.

Links to outdated stormwater documents archived for future reference for cases where they are referenced in municipal codes.

The Bear Creek Watershed Management Study report outlines recommendations to restore Bear Creek to existing and designated uses, so that it provides a healthy environment for the community and aquatic species.

Removing beavers and/or their dams can be difficult. If you are experiencing drainage issues because of beaver dams, a beaver deceiver may help. 

Find the latest on beavers in King County including biology and life history, environmental benefits beavers provide, challenges and solutions, and resources for beaver management such as scientific papers and illustrations.  

King County tracks stream health by examining “stream bugs”, known by scientists as benthic macroinvertebrates. Learn about our sampling program, how we collect these bugs, and how we use the data.

The Manual of Best Management Practices for Maintenance of Agricultural Waterways in King County provides suggestions for how to dredge agricultural drainageways while protecting salmon and water quality.

Biological diversity, or biodiversity, is life in all its forms. Learn about the importance of biodiversity, its threats and related regulations, and some of the amazing creatures that call King County home.

Approximately 220 species of breeding and non-breeding birds are typically seen each year in King County. There are also more than 100 mammal species that inhabit or visit King County, like the whales that travel through Puget Sound.

Information about the weed of concern bittersweet nightshade. Bittersweet nightshade is also known by its scientific name, Solanum dulcamara. Other common names include blue bindweed, climbing nightshade, felonwort, poison berry, and trailing nightshade.

Information about capital projects and programs that protect people and the environment from flooding, soil erosion, and drainage problems caused by stormwater. 

Information and services within the drainage area that includes the Cedar River and Lake Washington. Includes lakes, streams, wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat, pollution, flooding, open space, and forestry in the area.

This page provides information about the Cedar River Council (CRC), a public forum connecting people for Cedar River health.

Formerly known as the May Creek Tributary 291 Stream Basin Retrofit Project.

Information and services for the area of King County where surface water runs off to local drainages and into Central Puget Sound.

Overview of a project to identify chemicals of emerging concern (CECs) and quantify their concentrations in salmon streams with critical spawning and rearing habitat.

Phí Quản lý Nước mặt Quận King

Nước sạch rất quan trọng đối với nhiều người dân ở phía Nam của Quận King, mọi người thích vui chơi ở Poverty Bay như bơi, lặn, chèo thuyền, đi dạo trên bãi biển và câu cá. Tuy nhiên, chất lượng nước ở Poverty Bay đã trở nên tồi tệ hơn theo thời gian do các nguồn ô nhiễm phân khác nhau. Nếu trong nước có phân thì vi trùng, vi-rút, vi khuẩn và ký sinh trùng cũng có trong nước và điều đó có thể đe dọa tới sức khỏe của cư dân, du khách và động vật dưới biển. Chương Trình Xác Định và Khắc Phục Ô Nhiễm Nước Ở Poverty Bay (PIC) tập trung vào việc bảo vệ cộng đồng của chúng ta bằng cách sử lý phân của người và động vật một cách tốt hơn.

The effects of climate change on King County's biodiversity are only beginning to be understood, though they have already begun.

Application for the 2024 Federal RAISE grant to close the final gap of the southern segment of Eastrail, crossing Interstate 90.

Supporting materials for King County's application for a RAISE grant to close the gap on the Eastrail by building a building a trail section and bridge over Interstate 90, connecting Bellevue and Renton.

Environmental education and training programs appropriate for college-aged adults and older, provided by King County.

Best management practice (BMP) activity sheets are intended for commercial, industrial, agricultural, public, and multifamily residential activities. These pages can be found in Chapter 3 of the 2021 Stormwater Pollution Prevention Manual.

Information about the weed of concern, common holly. Common holly is also known by its scientific name Ilex aquifolium.

Information about noxious weeds common ivy and Atlantic ivy. Common ivy is known by the scientific name Hedera helix and Atlantic ivy is known by the Latin name Hedera hibernica.

The Community Partnerships and Grants (CPG) Program works with community organizations to develop a wide range of projects on Parks property.

Find a laboratory project manager or unit supervisor

The Conventional Chemistry Unit tests natural waters, wastewater, soil, and sediment for many inorganic and organic substances. The results are used to track water quality in the Puget Sound region.

Information about the weed of concern creeping buttercup. Creeping buttercup is also known by its Latin name, Ranunculus repens.

Come join us! Build your path to the future. The King County Department of Natural Resources and Parks (DNRP) has been sponsoring Washington Conservation Corps (WCC) crews since 1994. WCC provides the perfect opportunity to learn by doing through hands-on experience.

Tarifa de la Gestión de Aguas Superficiales del Condado de King

Information about the Dockton Park and Marina, located on Vashon/Maury Island.

The Dog Doogity music video spreads the message to scoop dog poop because "nobody wants to swim in poo."

Technical and financial assistance opportunities available to help with drainage problems in King County .

The companies below perform drainage system cleaning and maintenance services. These companies have indicated an interest in appearing on this list by responding to Water and Land Resources Division notices.

Information about the noxious weed dyer’s woad. Dyer’s woad is also known by its Latin name Isatis tinctoria.

An ecological region, or ecoregion, is a large area of the landscape with distinctive groupings of plants and animals and their interactions. Ecoregions provide a useful framework to better understand, plan for, and conserve the marine, freshwater, and terrestrial environments of the county.

Information about the aquatic noxious weed egeria. Egeria is also known by its Latin name, Egeria densa.

Information about the noxious weed eggleaf spurge. Eggleaf spurge is also known by its Latin name, Euphorbia oblongata.

Environmental education programs appropriate for elementary school aged children, provided by King County.

Join us to learn about the environment we live in through programs appropriate for all ages. Plan field trips to treatment plants and landfills, find lesson plans and materials for schools and find opportunities for internships and summer jobs.

Supporting the King County Water and Land Resources Division by keeping watch over our waterways.

Information about the noxious weed Eurasian watermilfoil. Eurasian watermilfoil is also known by its Latin name, Myriophyllum spicatum.

Small Habitat Restoration Program

Small Habitat Restoration Program

The Fairwood Crest Fish Barrier Removal project will modify an in-stream stormwater detention facility in Molasses Creek to allow fish to pass.

This project repaired a pipe and install fish passage features. A portion of the funding for this project came from the Fairwood West Homeowners’ Association and the King County Flood Control District Flood Control Grant.

Project on the mainstem Snoqualmie River about a half-mile downstream of the SR-203 Bridge in the town of Fall City to reduce flood risk and restore aquatic habitat.

Information about the noxious weed false brome. False brome is also known by its Latin name, Brachypodium sylvaticum.

The Farmland Preservation Program protects against loss of farmland in King County through the purchase of agricultural easements, known as Deed of and Agreement Relating to Development Rights. Purchases began in the early 1980’s and continue today. Most of the 16,400 acres protected to date are located in agricultural production districts, as well as other rural areas.  

Information about the noxious weed field bindweed. Field bindweed is also known by its scientific name, Convolvulus arvensis.

King County tracks toxic contaminants in the tissues of marine fish and crabs in Elliott Bay and in the Main Basin of the Puget Sound. We share that information with King County leadership, partners, decision makers, and local fishers to support efforts to reduce pollution and its impacts on ecosystems and human health.

Learn how to identify salmon and trout that inhabit King County streams, as well as freshwater mollusks, and find out what King County does to protect and restore aquatic habitat to recover fish and shellfish populations and ensure they can thrive.

The Fish Passage Restoration Program removes barriers for salmon to reach miles of historic spawning and rearing habitat and restore healthy populations.

Information about the noxious weed floating primrose-willow. Floating primrose-willow is also known by its scientific name, Ludwigia peploides.

Information about the noxious weed flowering rush. Flowering rush is also known by its scientific name, Butomus umbellatus.

Benefits of forest carbon projects and overview of King County Forest Carbon Program.

How to prepare your home for a wildfire. With a little training and some attention to conditions around your home, you can keep your home and family safer.

Find services for forest land owners and look up King County programs, plans, regulations, opportunities and forest safety advice for King County residents who manage forest land.

Information about the noxious weed fragrant water lily. Fragrant water lily is also known by its scientific name, Nymphaea odorata.

Information about the noxious weed garden loosestrife. Garden loosestrife is also known by its Latin name Lysimachia vulgaris.

Information about the noxious weed garlic mustard. Garlic mustard is also known by its Latin name, Alliaria petiolata.

Information about the toxic noxious weed giant hogweed. Giant hogweed is also known by its Latin name, Heracleum mantegazzianum.

Information about the noxious weed gorse. Gorse is also known by its Latin name UIex europaeus.

This page  provides services and information in the land area that drains to the Green River, Duwamish Waterway and out to Puget Sound at Elliott Bay.

The King County Groundwater Protection Program maintains data on groundwater quality and water levels. Use our search tools or browse our collection of maps and reports to get groundwater data.

Groundwater is important to streams, lakes and wetlands that support fish and wildlife. Groundwater feeds surface streams in the summer months and provides water for salmon and other fish when there is little rain. Groundwater also provides drinking water for a significant percentage of King County residents.

King County has five Groundwater Management Areas (GWMAs) within the county boundaries. These areas are part of the provisions of Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 173-100.

The Groundwater Protection Program provides management, policy, and technical expertise to help protect the quality and quantity of the groundwater resources in King County.

The Habitat Restoration Unit (HRU) designs, permits, builds and monitors ecological restoration projects in King County to promote salmon recovery.

The Healthy Lands Project (HeLP) provides invasive weed control and stewardship assistance on conservation lands to keep open space healthy for people and the environment.

Information about the noxious weed herb Robert. Herb Robert is also known by its Latin name, Geranium robertianum.

The King County Stream Monitoring Program is designed to ensure our waters continue to support the different ways we use them. The people of King County have been investing in water quality improvements since the 1950s, and we work to protect those investments.

Information about the noxious weed houndstongue. Houndstongue is also known by its Latin name, Cynoglossum officinale. 

Information about the noxious weed hydrilla. Hydrilla is also known by its scientific name, Hydrilla verticillata.

This web page addresses only software programs referenced in the Surface Water Design Manual (SWDM).

Information for permittees on how to use the Mitigation Reserves Program.

We manage specialized hardware and software that allow our field and lab scientists to access and interact with data and allow clients access to test results.

King County samples beaches in the county where people are most likely to interact with sediments. The sediments can contain chemicals, which attach as the particles settle out of the water. These samples are used to evaluate what chemicals are there and track chemistry changes over time.

Invasive species are typically non-native plants or animals that are highly competitive over native species. They are often difficult to control or eliminate, and in extreme cases may be quite destructive of native ecosystems or economically valuable plant and animal resources. Invasive plants that are highly destructive are termed "noxious weeds," and destructive invasive animals are "pests."

Invertebrates are any animals that don't have a backbone. Insects are invertebrates. So are cephalopods (octopus and squid), zooplankton, earthworms, clams and mussels, and a variety of critters we call benthic macroinvertebrates—also known as stream bugs. Learn about some of the invertebrates you can find in King County.

Overview of the 30-Year Forest Plan, including priorities and goals described in the plan and the process of developing the plan.

King County is a productive agricultural region with dairies, livestock operations, row crops, flowers, and berry fields. The King County Agriculture Program strives to preserve agricultural soils, support farmers and consumers, and protect natural resources.

Who are the Basin Stewards?

Advisory group of volunteer members, appointed by the King County Executive, who represent a variety of rural forest interests to King County.

The King County Site Management Plan (SiMPla) is a manual for King County workers. It lists stormwater pollution-preventing best management practices (BMPs) to follow while working throughout the county. SiMPla BMPs are not intended to supersede established, approved policies and procedures.

We have developed a Stormwater Management Action Plan (SMAP) to meet the requirements of the Phase 1 Municipal Stormwater National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit. The SMAP has been developed for a sub-basin in the Bear Creek watershed in King County.

Learn about wetlands in King County such as their value to clean water and healthy habitat, reducing floods and supporting biodiversity and find wetland maps, regulations and studies.

Local and regional news coverage of the Lake Sammamish kokanee population.

There are eight units at the Environmental Lab:

We coordinate projects with our clients to make sure they are timely, complete, and produce reliable data.

Lacagta la iska qaado ee Maamulka Biyaha Dhulka Korsiisa ee Degaanka King

Lake Geneva is situated in the suburbs of South King County between Federal Way and Auburn. A public park is located at its northeastern shore while the rest of the lakeshore is surrounded by woods, private homes, and docks.

The kokanee is a salmon native to King County. Local governments, residents, and organizations are working together to preserve this fish’s future.

The Kokanee Work Group (KWG) is an ad hoc collaborative group formed in 2007. Its goal is to prevent the extinction and improve the health of the native kokanee population so it is viable, self-sustaining, and eventually supports fishery opportunities.

King County provides an array of services and information to facilitate lake management, monitoring, and enjoyment.

The Lake Stewardship Program monitors the water quality of small lakes in King County to assess the real and potential changes over time.

During the summer, we test the water for bacteria at many lake beaches in King County. Routine water testing has ended for 2024 and will resume in mid-May 2025. Check back next summer to find a healthy beach!   Rainy Season Safety Swim safely during the rainy season! Stay out of the water for 24 hours after heavy rainfall. When it rains, poop and germs get washed from land into the water.  Keep an eye out for harmful algae blooms, which can make people and animals sick. Some types of harmful algae can grow more in the fall.  Learn more about how to stay safe around harmful algae blooms by watching this video from the CDC: You can find the most recent data for toxic algae in Washington at nwtoxicalgae.org. And the table and map below will continue to show any beaches or lakes that are closed due to toxic algae. Also check the Combined Sewer Overflow website, to see if a combined sewer overflow is occurring before going swimming, wading, fishing or boating. Stay out of the water near an overflow for 48 hours after a sewage and stormwater overflow. Water recreation links: Saltwater beaches on Puget Sound Toxic algae in lakes Public Health - Seattle & King County Water Safety

Where's a good place to swim today? Our up-to-date water test results makes it quick and easy to find a healthy beach! Check out the map below - all the green circles are beaches with healthy water (low bacteria) this week. And click "Water Temperature" to see how warm the water is. Choose your favorite healthy beach, pack your towel and sunscreen, and go have fun!

A narrative history of Lake Washington's ecology, before and after the restoration efforts of the 1960s.

Definitions and vocabulary for common lake and water quality terms.

Freshwater resources in King County.

Learn about the stakeholders who review and make recommendations on the initiative's work plan.

The Land Conservation Initiative works to invest in parks, open space and trail access in localities historically deprived of amenities to ensure health and well-being in every neighborhood.

List of habitat restoration and flood reduction projects where large wood will be or is likely to be installed in a King County river or stream.

For native plant restorations

King County has environmental rules about keeping livestock in unincorporated King County. This page provides an overview of those rules and support that may be available on this topic.

Find contacts for local cities and counties to report drainage and water quality problems. This webpage is updated when possible, however some contacts may no longer be active.

This stormwater management project will replace the aged pipe system in Madsen Creek.

Look at what King County has accomplished to date on its Land Conservation Initiative with maps and photos of land acquisitions.

King County monitors water quality at local marine beaches to understand current conditions, how conditions have changed over time, and where we have water quality issues that need to be addressed.

King County has been monitoring toxic contaminants in Dungeness crab (Metacarcinus magister) and red rock crab (Cancer productus) from Puget Sound every 4 years since 2014. This information helps our public health agencies update consumption advisories and helps King County track changes in environmental pollution over time.

King County has conducted benthic (sea floor) trawling surveys to monitor for toxic contaminants in English sole and rockfish every 2 years since 2015, though we discontinued collecting rockfish in 2023. We collect fish to help our public health partner agencies update consumption advisories and we also track changes in environmental pollution over time.

King County’s marine moorings continuously measure water quality parameters, offering insight into how Puget Sound’s ecosystem is changing in real time. These autonomous data-gathering platforms help identify environmental changes in the previous hour to the previous several years, filling in data when we are unable to sample for the offshore monitoring program.

King County monitors marine (salt) water quality at beaches and at locations further from shore. These data help us understand the health of Puget Sound and how climate and humans impact the marine ecosystem.

The McSorley Creek Shoreline and Estuary Restoration Project will examine removing the rock bulkhead along the shoreline and the rock at the creek’s mouth to restore natural beach processes, make the creek more accessible for fish and the beach more accessible to people.

Environmental education programs appropriate for middle and high school aged youth, provided by King County.

Information about the noxious weed milk thistle. Milk thistle is also known by its Latin name, Silybum marianum. Property owners are required to control this plant. Milk thistle can cause nitrate poisoning in cattle and sheep.

The Program monitors and maintains habitat restoration projects designed and implemented by the Ecological Restoration and Engineering Services (ERES) Unit. We make sure restoration projects meet their goals and do not increase risk to people or infrastructure. We also inform the design of future projects and help to identify potential adaptive management needs.

The following resources are provided by the Water and Land Resources Division of King County, Washington as an aid to learning about northwest native plants. This list is updated periodically. If you have any questions, or know of a resource that you think should be included in the list, please contact Greg Rabourn.

Habitat restoration project in the Green River floodplain in the Kent-Auburn Valley.

The Neighborhood Drainage Assistance Program (NDAP) resolves stormwater related flooding, erosion, and sedimentation problems on private property in unincorporated King County. NDAP can design and fund projects to build new drainage systems or repair existing drainage systems. Technical assistance is also available for questions about construction, permitting, and storm drainage.

New Zealand mudsnails, Potamopyrgus antipodarum, are freshwater invaders from New Zealand. They can multiply very quickly and have the potential to become a serious economic and ecological problem for the Puget Sound region.

The Normative Flow Studies project, concluded in 2007, sought to enhance our understanding of the relationship between river and stream flow patterns with ecological parameters.

This page provides earth-friendly info about gardening and yard care in the northwest. 

Identification and control guidance and resources for noxious weeds and invasive plants in King County

King County’s Noxious Weed Control Program has a variety of free noxious weed related resources that they offer both online and in person. Learn more about their materials and opportunities below.

King County invests in water quality monitoring and analysis to better understand how excess nitrogen affects marine life. This is part of a shared commitment to protect Puget Sound marine life.

King County monitors ocean acidification conditions and trends in the county’s marine waters to help understand exposure risk to corrosive water as well as to inform management actions around mitigation. Corrosive water is a problem for shellfish and other animals with shells because their shells will either dissolve or not form properly.

Monitoring offshore water quality in King County is essential for understanding naturally occurring conditions across Puget Sound and how human and climate impacts are affecting this valuable marine ecosystem.

Information about the noxious weed old man’s beard. Old man’s beard is also known by its Latin name, Clematis vitalba.

Information about the noxious weed orange hawkweed. Orange hawkweed is also known by its Latin name, Hieracium aurantiacum.

Permit-required stormwater management resources for development and developed land.

Native plants are beautiful and well-adapted to life in the maritime Pacific Northwest.

King County Parks offers a variety of grant programs that aim to preserve and increase access and equity by supporting communities and partners who are investing in parks, trails, open spaces, recreational facilities, and programming.

The King County Parks Levy is a six-year, voter-approved property tax that keeps both city and regional parks, trails, and open spaces available for everyone. No matter where you are in King County, the Parks Levy goes to support your local parks and trails.

Information about the aquatic noxious weed parrotfeather. Parrotfeather is also known by its Latin name, Myriophyllum aquaticum.

Information about the noxious weed perennial pepperweed. Perennial pepperweed is also known by its Latin name, Lepidium latifolium.

Information about the noxious weed phragmites. Phragmites is also known by its Latin name, Phragmites australis ssp. australis.

King County collects samples to determine the different types and number of phytoplankton at the base of the Puget Sound food web. Phytoplankton are important indicators of environmental health and can rapidly grow or disappear based on many factors, such as temperature, nutrients, mixing of the water, and predation.

We monitor the amounts and types (community composition) of phytoplankton and zooplankton in the Puget Sound Central Basin, as they are indicators of ecosystem health. This information allows us to understand the base of the marine food web and how it changes over time and in response to environmental factors.

Information about the toxic, noxious weed poison hemlock. Poison hemlock is also known by its Latin name, Conium maculatum.

Information about the noxious weed policeman’s helmet. Policeman’s helmet is also known by its Latin name, Impatiens glandulifera.

 Everyone can help keep poop out of our lakes, rivers, and streams.

Clean water is important to many people in South King County who enjoy Poverty Bay for swimming, diving, boating, beach-walking, and fishing. Yet, water quality in Poverty Bay has worsened over time from various fecal (poop) pollution sources. If poop is in the water, germs, viruses, bacteria, and parasites are present in water, which can be threats to the health of residents, visitors, and animals in the sea. The Poverty Bay Pollution Identification and Correction (PIC) Program focuses on protecting our community by taking care of poop from humans and animals. Learn more about what we are doing to find and fix sources of bacteria. 

남 킹 카운티에 사는 우리들에게 깨끗한 물에서 수영, 다이빙, 보트 이용, 해변 산책, 그리고 낚시를 즐길 수 있는 것은 매우 중요한 문제입니다. 그러나 Poverty Bay 의 수질은 오랜 시간동안 분뇨오염으로 나빠져 왔습니다. 분뇨가 물에서 퍼진다는 것은 사람과 물 속 동식물의 건강을 위협하는 세균, 바이러스, 박테리아, 그리고 기생충들이 물 속에 존재함을 의미합니다. Poverty Bay 오염확인 및 교정 프로그램은 사람과 동물에게서 나오는 분뇨가 잘 처리되도록 함으로써 우리 지역사회를 건강하게 유지시키는 데 초점을 맞추고 있습니다.

Family-friendly environmental education programs appropriate for young children.

The private companies on the list below perform analysis, engineering, and/or design of stormwater drainage systems. These firms have indicated an interest in appearing on this list by responding to Water and Land Resources Division notices.

El agua limpia es importante para muchas personas en el sur del Condado de King que disfrutan la bahía Poverty Bay para nadar, bucear, pasear en bote, caminar por la playa, y pescar. Sin embargo, la calidad del agua de la bahía ha empeorado con el paso del tiempo por la contaminación producida por varias fuentes de sustancias fecales o excrementos. Si hay excrementos en el agua, hay gérmenes, virus, bacterias y parásitos que pueden ser una amenaza para la salud de los residentes, visitantes y animales en el mar o los océanos. El Programa de Identificación y Corrección de Contaminación de Poverty Bay (PIC, por sus siglas en inglés) se enfoca en proteger a nuestra comunidad mediante el manejo de excrementos de humanos y animales.

Small Habitat Restoration Program

Small Habitat Restoration Program

Environmental projects that restore fish and wildlife habitat, improve water quality, reduce flood risk and manage stormwater.

Amending the 2021 Surface Water Design Manual King County has amended the 2021 edition of the Surface Water Design Manual (SWDM), adding bioretention using WA Ecology approved High Performance Bioretention Soil Mixes (HPBSM) as an approved water quality treatment facility and as an allowable flow control best management practice (FCBMP).

The best decisions are based on Sound information.

Information about the noxious weed purple loosestrife. Purple loosestrife is also known by its Latin name, Lythrum salicaria.

The Quartermaster Harbor Nitrogen Management Study and Report was completed in 2014. The report summarizes freshwater (groundwater and surface water) inputs to Quartermaster Harbor, marine water quality, and sources of nitrogen. It also provides recommendations for future studies to address management challenges.

Learn how to capture and store rainwater to use for your ecologically rich garden.

Reed canarygrass is an aggressive, noxious weed. It can grow so thick in waterways that it causes sediment to build up and restrict flow in a waterway.

Information about the noxious weed reed canarygrass. Reed canarygrass is also known by its Latin name, Phalaris arundinacea.

King County landowners are required to control a subset of noxious weeds that have been legally selected for regulation on properties that they manage. The Regulated Weeds team of specialists' coordinate, manage, and fulfill the controls of these select weeds on a regional basis within King County.

A combination of state, local, and federal regulations work together to protect biodiversity in King County.

Links related to King County Environmental Lab

Information about where and how to report a flooding, drainage, or water quality problem in King County.

King County is home to many species of reptiles, amphibians, and freshwater fish.

These best management practice (BMP) activity sheets are for residential activities. These pages can be found in Chapter 4 of the 2021 Stormwater Pollution Prevention Manual.

Cedar River - Lake Washington Watershed

Information about the noxious weed rush broom. Rush broom is also known by its Latin name, Spartium juneum.

Learn how to identify the salmon and trout species you might see in King County.

Information and services within the drainage area that flows to the Sammamish River and into Lake Washington. Includes lakes, streams, wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat, pollution, flooding, open space, and agricutlure in the area.

King County scientists gather and study data and information to inform how best to take care of our environment and to protect and restore clean water and healthy habitat. Find our work here.

Information about the noxious weed Scotch broom. Scotch broom is also known by its scientific name, Cytisus scoparius.

A set of graphs showing the accumulated Sea-Tac precipitation beginning October 1, for the current water year.

King County measures the physical and chemical characteristics of sediments as well as assess the invertebrate (animal with no backbones) community that lives within the sediment. This information helps us understand more about habitat health at the bottom of Puget Sound and how it is changing over time.  

This project retrofitted King County’s Regional Detention Facility #DR0562 (Seola Pond) with water quality features. This is a collaborative effort between King County and the City of Seattle. A portion of funding for this project also comes from the Washington State Department of Ecology in the form of a stormwater facility retrofit grant.

Information about the noxious weed shiny geranium. Shiny geranium is also known by its Latin name, Geranium lucidum.

We’re excited that you’re thinking about signing up to bring Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) to your home or property!

This study reviewed the drainage basin within the Skyway - West Hill community. We evaluated the retention/detention facility needs to correct existing stormwater problems and prevent future ones. The study was called out in the 2016 Skyway-West Hill Action Plan (SWAP) (9.9 MB) and is now done.

King County's Small Habitat Restoration Program (SHRP) builds low-cost projects in rural and urban King County that enhance and restore streams and wetlands.

Community-driven effort to resolve conflicting priorities for salmon restoration, developing the farm economy and reducing risk of flood damage in the Snoqualmie Valley.

Evaluating needs for infrastructure, policy, and regulatory improvements for commercial farmers in the Snoqualmie Valley Agricultural Production District to solve problems well and produce good results for years to come.

This page  provides services and information in the land area in King County that drains to the Snoqualmie and Skykomish Rivers into the Snohomish and out to Puget Sound at Everett.

Information about the noxious weed spotted knapweed. Spotted knapweed is also known by its Latin name Centaurea stoebe.

Information about the Steve Cox Memorial Park in Seattle, Washington.

Information and resources for stormwater and surface water management in King County.

Information about stormwater drainage assistance in King County.

How businesses and property owners can keep pollution out of our lakes, rivers, streams, and Puget Sound. We offer free assistance to help businesses find and fix potential pollution issues. 

The Stormwater Pollution Prevention Manual (SPPM) provides best management practices (BMPs) for managing stormwater on commercial, multi-family, and residential properties. 

These sheets include more information about stormwater best management practices (BMPs).

These 21 videos highlight why stormwater matters and how you can prevent pollution from entering our lakes, rivers, and creeks. You can view the different videos by clicking the drop down arrow in the upper left corner of the video screenshot below.

Definitions and vocabulary for common stream and water quality terms.

As human activities continue to impact the environment, it becomes increasingly important to monitor the health of our streams and rivers. Monitoring stream water quality helps ensure their continued health, as well as the health of the people and wildlife who use freshwater resources.

King County monitors the community of animals that live in and on the sediments at the bottom of Puget Sound. These animals, called benthos, are crucial to the health of Puget Sound. 

King County samples offshore sediments to determine what chemicals are captured in the sediments at the bottom of Puget Sound and to see how they change over time.

Small Habitat Restoration Program

Information about the noxious weed sulfur cinquefoil. Sulfur cinquefoil is also known by its Latin name, Potentilla recta.

Schools have impervious surfaces, like rooftops, concrete and asphalt. These surfaces contribute to surface water problems. Schools can maintain their stormwater facilities and work with us to meet our community education goals.

Information about the weed of concern tall buttercup. Tall buttercup is also known by its scientific name, Ranunculus acris.

Information about the noxious weed tansy ragwort. Tansy ragwort is also known by its scientific name, Jacobaea vulgaris.

Tarifa de la Gestión de Aguas Superficiales del Condado de King

Small Habitat Restoration Program

The Technical Document and Research Center supports the mission of the Department of Natural Resources and Parks through the provision of research and current awareness services.

A list of references cited in Stream Reports.

Find volunteer opportunities such as planting trees, reporting noxious weeds, teaching how to repair things, counting salmon, measuring water quality at lakes and more.

Lake Sammamish in King County is a significant and scenic lake that attracts over a million visitors annually for activities such as fishing, swimming, boating, and water skiing.

A thermosalinograph (TSG) measures temperature and salinity in the surface waters as our research vessel moves through Puget Sound. By providing continuous data as the vessel travels between sampling stations, a TSG adds greater spatial coverage to the King County marine dataset.

Information about the Tolt Macdonald Park and Campground located in Carnation, Washington.

We support the King County Wastewater Treatment Division by collecting environmental samples during wastewater overflow events and analyzing them.

The transformation of King County's landscape resulting from development, agriculture, and forestry has affected all native wildlife species in King County in some way. Vertebrate and invertebrate wildlife species have experienced habitat alteration, interrupted migration patterns, displacement, reduced reproductive success, and exposure to invasive species.

The Vashon-Maury Island Groundwater Protection Committee (VMI GWPC) has been serving the Vashon-Maury Island community since 2001. The Committee is responsible for the Groundwater Management Plan and Watershed Plan. They continue to work on strategies for protecting Vashon-Maury Island's groundwater.

Information about the noxious weed velvetleaf. Velvetleaf is also known by its Latin name, Abutilon theophrasti.

Find outdoor volunteer events near you.  Get conservation ideas.  Transition to clean energy. Restore nature where you live and help regenerate diverse and healthy ecology.

Information about the noxious weed water primrose. Water primrose is also known by its scientific name, Ludwigia hexapetala.

Detailed water quality scores for monitoring locations throughout King County.

Look up water quality data from across King County including biological, chemical, and hydrologic data. King County uses the data to ensure the continued health of our waters and to help track effectiveness of corrective actions.

Find information about King County lakes and swimming beaches, King County's Olympic-sized swimming pool, Weyerhaeuser Aquatic Center, and safety for swimmers and boaters.

Find water and land info and services by watershed area in King County including studies, data, activities, grants, and much more.

Publications about noxious weeds in King County, Washington.

Learn about current projects at the aquatic center, how to register for classes, and find class schedules.

There are many things you can do to keep poop out of our local lakes, rivers, and streams.

Introduction to watersheds, the water cycle, flooding and pollution including how everyone lives downstream.​

The Noxious Weed Control Program works throughout King County to minimize the economic, environmental, and social impacts of noxious weeds.

King County monitors water quality in Whidbey Basin to get a more complete picture of current conditions and how the marine environment is changing over time in Puget Sound. We are particularly interested in understanding short- and long-term nutrient impacts in shallow bays.

This page  provides services and information in the land area in King County that drains to the White River into the Puyallup and out to Puget Sound at Commencement Bay.

Learn about the goals, people, and work of the King County Noxious Weeds program.

Learn about the living things that call King County home, and what we do to protect, restore and help them regenerate.

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Information about the noxious weed yellow archangel. Yellow archangel is also known by its Latin name, Lamiastrum galeobdolon.

Information about the noxious weed yellow flag iris. Yellow flag iris is also known by its Latin name, Iris pseudacorus.

Information about the noxious weed yellow nutsedge. Yellow nutsedge is also known by its scientific name, Cyperus esculentus.

Information about the noxious weed yellow starthistle. Yellow starthistle is also known by its scientific name, Centaurea soltitialis.

King County measures the amount and types of zooplankton to help assess the health of Puget Sound. Zooplankton have a critical role in the marine food web since they are important food for young salmon and other fish. In addition, many important species, such as Dungeness crab, spend part of their life in the water column as zooplankton.

Плата за управление поверхностными водами округа Кинг

킹 카운티 지표수 관리비

King County 地表水管理費