Overview
The BNSF Skagit River Debris Management Study (pdf., 15.4 MB) was completed in June 2007.
The study identifies strategies to reduce risks associated with debris accumulation on the piers of the BNSF Railway's Skagit River Bridge. This study was funded by the 2005 Washington State Legislature at the request of local stakeholders, including Skagit County and the cities of Mount Vernon and Burlington.
The study finds that the current debris management practices used by the BNSF Railway at their bridge over the Skagit River minimizes risks to the railroad bridge and nearby levees during flood events. The study also finds that the state of Washington and local jurisdictions have no legal authority to force BNSF to modify these practices.
The study does recommend that the BNSF Railway, WSDOT, and local jurisdictions get together to discuss best practices for dislodging large woody debris that flows down the Skagit River during flood events. The study also recommends that bridge owners of the lower Skagit River (Skagit County, WSDOT, BNSF, and the cities of Mount Vernon and Burlington) explore purchasing larger and more powerful boats for dislodging debris that accumulates on bridge piers. And, finally, the study recommends implementing a pilot project at one of the Skagit River bridges to demonstrate the effectiveness of debris deflection devices in use on other rivers in the United States.
WSDOT is hopeful that this report leads to better coordination among bridge owners of the Skagit River and further reduces potential risks associated with debris accumulation on bridge piers during flood events.
 | Improves Safety
The study will give local stakeholders a better understanding of how bridge owners manage debris that accumulates on bridge piers. This understanding could lead to better coordination and reduce the risk of damage to Skagit River bridges and levees.
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Partnerships & Cooperation
WSDOT worked with the BNSF Railway, Skagit County, the cities of Mount Vernon and Burlington, local diking districts, local tribes, and others on this project.
Funding
This project is funded through the following sources:
- State Multi-Modal Funds(Weight Fees) - $150,000
- Total Funding From All Sources - $150,000
Contact Us
Kirk Fredrickson
Project Manager
State Rail Office
PO Box 47407
Olympia, WA 98504-7407
Phone: 360.705.7939
or toll-free 1.800.822.2015
E-mail: Kirk Fredrickson
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