Compared to many cities, the City of Sequim is fortunate to have relatively few flooding problems.  Our glacial soils are very good at absorbing stormwater in many areas.  However, as many know too well, there are big problems when we get a major storm, or when rapidly-melting snow overwhelms the infiltration capacity of the ground.

In 2013-14, Sequim Public Works identified so-called "problem areas" and documented physical and operational stormwater management concerns in a report, "City of Sequim Stormwater Management Needs Assessment." (Click title to link to the 3 MB report; the Figures are a separate 6 MB file.)  Major findings of the Needs Assessment project were presented to City Council at a study session on March 10, 2014.  Click here to see that slideshow presentation.

The study was a pro-active effort directly related to the City’s responsibility to protect existing infrastructure and efficiently manage water resources as the urban area grows.  The City recognizes that identified needs will have to be prioritized and examined for feasibility as funding becomes available, due to the City's limited resources.

For the project’s next phase, our first Stormwater Master Plan, a 75% reimbursement grant was obtained to help cover staff and consultant costs.  A contractor was hired to help the City determine solutions for the issues identified in the Needs Assessment – and ways to pay for them.  The City’s Sewer and Water Utility Funds are currently subsidizing the cost of managing stormwater. 

With this planning project Sequim will join the ranks of most local governments in addressing how to balance problems of water quality and quantity: too much water at certain times and places with shortages at other times and places.  The City's project will also determine the likelihood that additional regulations will be imposed, and when.

Sequim Public Works will work with Clallam County and irrigation managers throughout the planning process since stormwater is a regional issue.  We encourage residents and business owners--anyone potentially affected--to become involved.  Stay up to date by subscribing to the "Surface Water Management" Listserve (see below).


Note that there is a related project sponsored by the City in 2009 which explored how "Low Impact Development" requirements might look if the City chose to fully utilize those options for managing stormwater.  L.I.D., also known as "green infrastructure" (as compared to gray pipelines), focuses on infiltration and is very effective where soils can handle it. To see the results of that study, click here.

Photo Gallery  (updated March 2014)

Stormwater Show from later Feb. early March 2014  

Click here for the current list of public events related to surface water management by the City of Sequim. 

Ann Soule, Resource Manager, may be reached by calling 360-582-2436 or emailing

Also, don't forget to subscribe to e-Notifications for "Surface Water Management" (sidebar to left) so you will be aware of News, Events posted to the Calendar, etc.