The Birch Bay Watershed and Aquatic Resources Management (BBWARM) Distirct is a local effort to resolve flooding and water quality problems within the Birch Bay watershed. Watershed citizens concerned by the rapid rate of development in the watershed and increasing runoff and water quality problems asked Whatcom County for assistance. After extensive public input over several years, Whatcom County Council, acting as the Board of Supervisors for the Flood Control Zone District, authorized the creation of BBWARM as the stormwater management district for the Birch Bay Watershed.
Local representation for BBWARM is provided through an advisory committee established by the Board of Supervisors (County Council) in June of 2008. The committee advises the Board of Supervisors regarding the implementation of stormwater programs and projects and works with Whatcom County Public Works to implement a stormwater management plan. The advisory committee meetings are open to the public and held on the third on Wednesday of each month from 6-8 PM. Public comment is always welcome. Please see our meetings page for upcoming meeting location and agenda.
The funds collected through the BBWARM subzone assessment will be used for capital improvement projects and educational programs that focus on reducing the flooding and water quality impacts within the Birch Bay watershed.
Residential monthly fees are based on the percent of impervious coverage of each parcel. Monthly fees range from $5.02 for low, $6.25 for medium and $8.75 for high density categories. Non residential fees are based on the total impervious surface area of the parcel. Multi-family, three or more units, including condominiums are included in the non-residential calculation.
You may want to review the regulations contained in Whatcom County Code, Chapter 100.07 to see if you qualify for any rate credits.
Please take a moment to check out the links offered on the BBWARM website to find out more about this program, how to apply for rate credits or to see the Comprehensive Stormwater Plan and other important information relating to this new stormwater service for the Birch Bay Watershed.
For a short summary of BBWARM's history, accomplishments, and current projects see the April 2010 BBWARM Fact Sheet or read the BBWARM District 2009 Annual Report. |
