Vancouver Lake management plans hinge on funding and updated stormwater code

The Clark County Clean Water Commission meeting on June 9, 2025, focused on several key initiatives aimed at improving water quality and managing local lakes, particularly Vancouver Lake. A significant point of discussion was the commitment to ensure that all public filter cartridges will include phosphorus removal, a measure included in the county's rate study assumptions to support cost recovery. The commission also reported successful applications for grants, which will help fund ongoing cartridge replacements.

The meeting highlighted the necessity of updating the stormwater code and manual, as mandated by the Department of Ecology. This update is currently in progress and is expected to be presented to the planning commission and council in 2026. The proposed changes will require phosphorus removal cartridges for both public and private developments in the LACAMUS watershed and drainages leading to Vancouver Lake.

Concerns were raised about the potential for filter cartridges to contribute to microplastic pollution. The commission plans to investigate this issue further with subject matter experts.

In terms of funding, the commission confirmed that while legislative funding for Vancouver Lake management is uncertain, they have allocated $100,000 annually in their rate study for lake management work. This funding will support the hiring of a lakes and watershed coordinator, expected to begin in the third quarter of 2025. However, the absence of dedicated legislative funds may limit additional analysis and consulting work.

The discussion also touched on dredging projects for Vancouver Lake. Currently, there are no active conversations with the Army Corps of Engineers regarding dredging, as the focus has shifted to improving the Flushing Channel operated by the Port of Vancouver. The commission is exploring alternative projects, such as bridge or culvert constructions, while dredging remains a costly and complex option.

Overall, the meeting underscored the commission's ongoing efforts to enhance water quality and manage local water resources effectively, despite funding challenges and the complexities of environmental management.