Washington State Department of Ecology

Recycling Reform Act will lower recycling costs in Washington state

Major upgrades to the residential recyling system are coming. Producers will be responsible for residential packaging waste, ...
agr.wa.gov

Whitman County livestock operation penalized for ongoing water quality violations along Steptoe Creek

For the first time since 2013, the Washington Department of Ecology issued a penalty in Eastern Washington for polluted runoff from farming operations. Greg, Dan, and Doug Stout of Whitman County ...
agr.wa.gov

Capitol Lake drawdown will allow shoreline survey

As part of efforts to restore the Deschutes Estuary, water levels in Capitol Lake will be drawn down in late July 2026. Starting on July 19, the water gate on the 5 th Avenue Dam will be opened, ...
agr.wa.gov

Floodplain management

Substantial damage assessments are required any time a structure located within the Special Flood Hazard Area (FEMA 100-year floodplain) is damaged. FEMA and Ecology have guidance and resources ...
agr.wa.gov

Washington’s Environmental Justice Law (HEAL Act)

As the state’s lead environmental agency, our mission is to protect, preserve, and enhance the environment for current and future generations. As we work to build a healthier environment, we must make ...
agr.wa.gov

Risk MAP for homeowners

Ecology leads floodplain management for Washington. We provide technical assistance to local communities to help them better plan within the floodplain. We work to reduce losses to life and property, ...