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Over the last century, salmon runs in the Chehalis Basin have declined dramatically, and floods have become bigger, more frequent, and more dangerous. Scientists warn these trends will worsen as weather patterns become more unpredictable.
For a long time, people have fought over these issues. Now, we’re finally making progress toward a safer, more resilient basin.
The Chehalis Basin Board, a diverse group of representatives from Tribes, local governments, citizens, and state agencies, has brought forth more than 140 projects in aquatic restoration and flood protection on time and on budget, helping every community across the basin.
Read more about the range of projects and programs and find a project near you.
Building on this momentum, the Chehalis Basin Board is working together to develop the long-term Chehalis Basin Strategy to protect people and aquatic life, expected in early 2026.
This webpage will provide the latest updates on the Board’s process and how to stay engaged. Check back here periodically for the latest information.
LATEST UPDATE: On June 6, the Chehalis Basin Board met for an all-day workshop to determine what combinations of projects and investments they’d like to see studied further through 2025. Board members reached consensus on six different long-term strategy options to evaluate – a major milestone for their process. Of the six options:
- Two included the proposed flow-through dam for flood control to be constructed on the Chehalis River near Pe Ell.
- Five included some or all of the proposed levees in and around Chehalis and Centralia.
- Three included different scenarios for the Skookumchuck Dam – either modifying the dam to maximize benefits to fish and reduce downstream flood damages or removing the dam.
All the options to be evaluated include some level of basin-wide aquatic species restoration, ongoing support for floodproofing and elevating homes and businesses, erosion management projects, continuing local Chehalis River Basin Flood Authority projects and supporting the Flood Warning System, and other efforts.
The Board is still determining some of the nuances coming out of its June 6 workshop. In the meantime, technical experts are beginning to analyze the costs, benefits, and tradeoffs of these different options, evaluating factors such as how many homes might be protected, how fish populations could be impacted, and what the long-term economic and environmental effects might be. Watch the recording of the Board’s June 6 workshop.
What is the long-term strategy?
The Chehalis Basin Strategy is an action plan for reducing flood damage and restoring aquatic life. In early 2026, the Board will extend that plan by recommending long-term actions designed to protect the basin for decades to come.
Why is a long-term strategy necessary?
Larger-scale, longer-term investments are still needed. As long as weather patterns continue to shift and habitat continues be lost or damaged, scientists predict salmon and steelhead will decline to new lows without aggressive protection and restoration. Additionally, 100-year floods could happen as often as once a decade by the end of the century.
A strong long-term strategy is essential for preserving some of the state’s most important industries, vital transportation corridors and abundant salmon runs. What happens in the Chehalis Basin impacts all of Washington and beyond.
What options are being considered for the long-term strategy?
Through early 2026, the Chehalis Basin Board is in a period of critical decision-making as it develops its recommended long-term strategy to protect people and aquatic life for decades to come. Key questions the Board will seek to answer include:
- How much should be invested in aquatic restoration for the next 30+ years?
- Are large-scale structural flood option(s) needed for the upper basin, such as a proposed flood-control dam near Pe Ell, a system of local levees and floodwalls in and around Chehalis and Centralia, or some combination of both?
- What is the best pathway for the Skookumchuck Dam going forward?
The Board will also consider how it can continue to support and expand other local projects, policies, and programs that protect people and aquatic habitats across the basin.
How will the Board make its recommendation?
The Board is committed to a science-based, community-informed process.
Technical experts will analyze and compare the benefits, costs and trade-offs of the long-term options, examining factors such as:
- How many homes can be protected
- How fish populations will be impacted
- What the long-term economic and environmental effects will be
Input from Chehalis Basin residents, organizations, partners, and local governments will also play an important role in the Board’s upcoming decision-making.
How can I learn more and share feedback?
Throughout 2025, you will be able to learn more about the long-term options the Board is considering via webinars, open houses (in person and online), and community events. You will also be able to share comments via a comment form, a survey that will be launched later this year, and Board listening sessions. Input collected throughout the year will be compiled and considered by the Board along with the results of technical studies during final deliberations in early 2026.
Is there something you want the Chehalis Basin Board to consider as it weighs long-term options for aquatic restoration and flood protection? Use this comment form to share your input.
How can I get the most updated information?
Keep checking this web page for the latest updates. Stay connected by signing up for email newsletters and following us on social media.
Long-term strategy process and timeline
Questions? Contact us as info@officeofchehalisbasin.com.