Floodplains by Design

Floodplains by Design is our primary grant program for projects that help communities live better in their floodplain. Floodplains by Design is a partnership of local, state, federal, and private organizations focused on coordinating investment in and strengthening the integrated management of floodplain areas through Washington. Floodplains are vital to the ecological health of the state. They are critical to the economic vitality, cultural heritage, and quality of life provided by our region — from salmon, to farmland and commercial development, and recreational opportunities.

Local organizations with Floodplains by Design grants are working on projects that are multi-benefit: both reducing flood hazards to communities and restoring natural functions of Washington’s rivers and their floodplains. These projects bring together many different uses in the floodplain to benefit the entire community and ecosystem, improve flood protection for towns and farms, restore salmon habitats, improve water quality, and enhance outdoor recreation.