With the increased public awareness of the dangers of flooding in the aftermath of various natural disasters both in the U.S. and around the world, the Puyallup River Watershed Council has scheduled a speaker presentation to address those concerns for the local watershed. The council will review some of the more significant dangers, describe what plans are in place, and explain how citizens and jurisdictions can prepare. This forum will be of interest to citizens and public officials with a special significance for those who live or own property or businesses in areas that are prone to flooding.

The event will occur Oct. 26 from 5pm too 7pm in the Sumner City Council chambers.

Speakers include Tony Fantello, Pierce County Water Programs, Maintenance/River Systems Manager, and Steve Bailey, Director, Pierce County Emergency Management Tony Fantello will share an overview of the flood damage potential on the Puyallup, Carbon and White rivers in unicorporated Pierce County. His presentation will include:

– Clarification of common misconceptions associated with living adjacent to or near these major watercourses;

– Discussion of levels of protection and/or levels of service provided by levees and revetments, new construction and annual maintenance program;

– Flood control concepts;

– Flood hazard mitigation and environmental concerns.

Steve Bailey will discuss lessons learned from Hurricanes Katrina and Rita and the flooding aftermath. He will also talk about Pierce County Emergency Management’s role in the event of a local flooding emergency and how jurisdictions and citizens can prepare.