Hazardous Debris Removal Underway on Lake Washington

Marine Patrol continues the work of removing trees, logs, and debris on Lake Washington that were flushed into the lake via flooded rivers. Several hundred large trees and logs are free-floating in Lake Washington or have collected along the shoreline and docks. Free-floating debris is a hazard to navigation on Lake Washington, and boaters should take extra care while out on the lake.

Removal of large, waterlogged trees, logs, and debris is a slow process that takes months to complete. Marine Patrol is focusing on removing debris that poses the greatest risk to the public: free-floating debris that threatens navigation. Once that is complete, they will work to remove less hazardous logs that have collected along shorelines and docks.

Use extra caution while navigating and recreating on Lake Washington

Hundreds of large trees, logs, and other debris are floating freely in the lake. Boaters are urged to use extra caution while out on Lake Washington.

If boaters or residents come across free-floating logs or trees, they can call the non-emergency line at 425-577-5656 to report them or leave a message at 206-275-7909. Please include the date seen, location, and contact information in case Marine Patrol needs additional information. 

Who to call if logs have piled up against private docks or shorelines

The Marine Patrol Unit is concentrating on debris that poses a hazard to navigation, such as free-floating logs and other hazardous debris. Once those hazards have been removed, they will work to remove hazardous logs along public shorelines and other areas. Residents who have logs on their docks or shoreline can call towboat services or landscape companies, which may assist with private property removal for a fee.