Recognizing the natural and beneficial functions of floodplains can help to reduce flooding. Floodplains are a natural component of the City of Salem environment. Understanding and protecting the natural functions of floodplains reduces flood damage and protects resources.

When flooding spreads out across the floodplain, its energy is dissipated, resulting in lower flood flows downstream, reduced erosion of the stream bank and channel, deposition of sediments higher in the watershed, and improved groundwater recharge. Floodplains are scenic, serve as valued wildlife habitats, and are suitable for farming. Poorly planned development in floodplains can lead to stream bank erosion, loss of valuable property, increased risk of flooding to downstream properties, and degradation of water quality.

There are many protected and conserved natural floodplain areas that serve ecologically complex habitats for a diversity of fish and wildlife species, including several species that are listed as Threatened or Endangered under the Federal Endangered Species Act, such as resident Chinook salmon and winter steelhead trout. Some examples of these areas include Minto Brown Island Park , Claggett Creek Natural Area and the future Battle Creek Park property.

Riparian Areas located next to a waterway or water body are protected from removal of native vegetation and trees under Salem Revised Code Chapter 808, The City also preserves, protects, and maintains wetland areas as part of our overall stormwater management planning regulations from the Oregon Department of State Lands and under the development review permitting process.

Additional Resources

City of Salem, Community Development, Planning
503‑588‑6173
City Planners can provide information about protection of vegetation and trees along waterways and tree removal.

Oregon Department of State Lands (DSL)
503‑378‑3805
DSL reviews and issues removal/fill permits for development activities in waterways and wetlands.

National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
1‑888‑379‑9531
The Floodsmart website provides information about the National Flood Insurance Program, answers questions about flood insurance, and provides assistance to find local insurance agents that offer flood insurance.

City of Salem, Public Library
503‑588‑6052
The library collection contains floodplain publications and other floodplain-related information.

City of Salem, Public Works, Development Services
503‑588‑6211
Contact Development Services to speak with a Floodplain Manager or if you have questions about the interactive floodplain map.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)
503‑808‑4510
To find out more information about the USACE Flood Risk Management Program.

City of Salem, Emergency Preparedness
503‑588‑6211
For assistance in an emergency, call 911. Contact us to learn more about preparing for a disaster or for information on the City's emergency management program.

City of Salem, Public Works Dispatch
503‑588‑6311
Call dispatch if you discover problems with a street or your water / sewer service (i.e. broken pipe, pothole, environmental spill, clogged street drain).

Mid Willamette Valley High Water Watch
503-588-6333
Watch View current stream levels and rainfall data in near real-time from a number of sites across the City.