The Pacific Northwest received record-breaking rainfall in December 2025, leading to severe flooding throughout the region. Widespread heavy rain, unseasonably warm temperatures, and abnormally high snow levels all contributed to this historical flooding event. Over 100,000 people were placed on evacuation notice as rivers swelled.
The City of Orting, WA, located in a valley between the Puyallup and Carbon rivers just 30 miles from Mount Rainier, has historically been extremely susceptible to flooding. I had the opportunity to speak with Orting Mayor Scott Drennan and City Administrator Mark Bethune about the recent flooding events and how the levee system mitigated impacts to the community.
Night and day difference
Overall, the city fared very well with no major flooding. Streets that had flooded previously were dry. Mayor Drennan described it as a “night and day difference” compared to severe rainfall events before 2014, when the setback levee was completed.
Due to the city’s location between two rivers, the community has long struggled with a problematic levee system dating back to the 1990’s. Previously, water was directed toward the town and required sandbagging to protect homes and other infrastructure. Often, the local elementary school was closed due to flooding.
A turning point
2008 became a turning point for the city. As housing density increased, floods impacted more residents, and something needed to be done to make the city more resilient. It was decided that the city would construct a setback levee on the Puyallup River that not only would make the community more resilient to flood events but also provide benefits for salmon habitat and the environment overall.
Parametrix partnered with the city to design and construct the solution and apply for grants to fund it. Ultimately, the city secured over $15 million in grant funding for the project. The 1.6-mile levee widens the river channel and reconnects 55 acres of floodplain, providing an overflow space to mitigate flood events. The project has been recognized nationally for its innovation and environmental protection.
Originally called the Calistoga Setback Levee, it was renamed “Wolfe Levee” in 2018 to honor late City Project Manager Ken Wolfe, who led the project from ideation through completion.
The levee was completed in 2014 and put to the test shortly after, when the fourth-largest flow in over 50 years moved down the Puyallup River. The levee passed with flying colors.
Setback levee is put to the test again
The levee was tested again during the December 2025 severe rainfall. City Administrator Mark Bethune noted that the “setback levee wasn’t even approached by troublesome high water. Not only did it not overflow, it had plenty of board feet and protection for the city.” Because of the levee’s unique design, the capacity was barely tapped.
The flow structure allowed the water to move under the roadway, alleviating worries for the nearby area.
“I don’t want to say I could sleep at night, but it definitely took away our worries for that side of town,” said Mayor Drennan.
A resilient future
The city continues to work with Pierce County Public Works and the Puyallup River Flood District to improve levees and increase the city’s resiliency to flood events. They are actively monitoring vulnerable areas, such as the Jones Levee and areas along the Carbon River. They aim to find solutions that mitigate flooding while also considering economic and recreational impacts.
Ultimately, the setback levee project was successful and will continue to benefit the community for generations to come because of the passionate people and the energy behind this project.
“It was a small team of people that accomplished something much bigger than themselves,” said Mayor Drennan.
The city was complimentary of the work completed by Parametrix and Project Manager JC Hungerford.
“I can’t not mention Parametrix, our partnership, our relationship, and the ability to complete such a large project for a small city and get it done and to do it well. And we’re going to be forever thankful for the work that Parametrix did,” added City Administrator Mark Bethune.