King County's commitment to environmental stewardship and safeguarding mature forests continues to bear fruit this year. Recently, the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) notified the King County Council that 292 acres in West Tiger Mountain in King County were identified as candidates to be preserved as part of the first round of funding from the state's Natural Climate Solutions (NCS) program.

The Natural Climate Solutions program funding can be used to protect older, carbon dense forests for their carbon storage and habitat benefits, while purchasing younger replacement lands for future timber harvest and revenue generation.  

This West Tiger Mountain forestland is in close proximity to an existing Natural Resource Conservation Area – the Mountains to Sound Greenway National Heritage Area – and will not only provide increased opportunities to store carbon but also will expand habitat for flora and fauna. 

The Council has unanimously agreed to receive the 292 acres from DNR and, as a result, future generations of King County residents will be able to access recreational opportunities, breathe clean air, and find solace in the natural beauty that makes King County an exceptional place to live. There is a huge demand from counties for funding from Natural Climate Solutions program. The legislature needs to continue to make this program a priority in the fight against climate change in our state. 

This environmental victory comes on the heels of several wins we achieved hand in hand with the environmental community last year. In July, the King County Council successfully advocated for the cancellation of the Wishbone timber auction, a crucial step in preserving our natural resources. In September, we passed the mature forest motion, reinforcing our commitment to sustainable forestry practices. These priorities underscore our ongoing efforts to combat climate change and protect our cherished ecosystems. 

South King County is home to two major rivers - the Green and the Cedar – which can flood during particularly intense weather systems. To address the issues of flooding in these rivers and others throughout the County, we are in the final stages of updating our Flood Management Plan which will help us prepare the region for more frequent, severe flooding expected to occur due to climate change. 

The new plan is in the final stages of development and since the Lower Green includes 21 miles of river that is a flood risk to thousands of homes, businesses, open space, and native habitat its important that those who live or work near the river have a chance to comment on the plan.

You can read about the plan here and submit comments here. 

If you have thoughts on the draft plan, be sure to submit them before the public comment period ends on March 15, 2024, 5 p.m. (PT).  

• DRAFT King County Flood Management Plan 
• DRAFT King County Flood Management Plan appendices 

Comments can be submitted by mail, email or using the online form on the King County Engagement Hub. 

Email: jason.wilkinson@kingcounty.gov 

Join us in celebrating our amazing transit operators on Monday, March 18th! Transit Operator Appreciation Day is a great time to thank Metro’s dedicated bus operators, Access drivers, rail operators, streetcar operators and Water Taxi crews.

There are a variety of ways to show your appreciation for your favorite operator:  

• File a commendation (note the 4-digit coach number, route, and time). 
• As you board or leave transit, say, “Thank you!” or “I appreciate you!” or “You’re the best!” 
• Post a shout out to Metro employees on social media, tagging @kcmetrobus on Twitter and Instagram, and @KCMetro on Facebook. Use #ThanksMetro 
• Download this sign and wave it at your bus stop or take a photo and post on Metro's Twitter page. 
• And a note or card saying “thank you” is always appreciated!