Downriver Dispatches

Flooding in Grays River

Every year the rains bring the chance of flooding to the Grays River watershed along with landslides. This is the beginning of a new year and we have had both. It is one thing to be isolated because of the flooding, but the major landslide on SR 4 blocked everyone from going east. I was not able to travel anywhere and I live near the Methodist Church in Grays River.

Adam Storm sent me a pic from his cannabis store with the intention for me to come down and see it for myself. Although many vehicles went through the overflowed waters from Hull Creek, I knew it would flood my car. I had a long conversation with Commissioner Gene Strong who has a four wheel drive SUV, and he informed me of the power of the flood water because he went through some high water and by the time he crossed the water he was in the other lane.

The Rosburg Hall as of Friday afternoon was still so inundated that the American Legion Post #111 had to cancel their Crab and Oyster Feed for two weeks. According to the National Weather service, the flow of Grays River before the flooding was approximately 2,425 cubic feet per second (cfs), and at the river's zenith, the flow rate was over 15,000 cfs, yet still only a foot below a major flood stage.

Most of those who have found themselves isolated for several days have enough food to make it through, but for me it went south about midnight Saturday when our power went out. I knew my family would be okay because we are always prepared for power outages.

Odd as this sounds, my only thought was where I was going to go with my computer to complete this article for Eagle readers. I went back to bed and awoke to the power being returned. We may not be able to travel east, but Grays River residents have the pleasure of each other's company while watching the flooding fade away.

Westend News

The water has receded well enough that the Rosburg Hall can be used for events and that The Naselle/Grays River Valley Seniors luncheon will continue as before. Those new to the area who want to mix with other seniors can go to the luncheon held on Wednesdays at the Rosburg Hall for those who are 55 and older; also the potluck will be at the Valley Bible Church on every fourth Wednesday. Volunteers are needed so please contact the Naselle/Grays River Valley Seniors' president Diane Hollenbeck at dianemarye@gmail.com or phone her at 1(360) 465-2991. Anyone interested in renting the Rosburg Hall is encouraged to contact Sonja Kruse at 465-2251 or Dee Nikkila at 465-2595. Thursday luncheon at noon at the Rosburg Hall is sponsored by the Community Action Program (CAP) out of Kelso/Longview. Any questions, contact Denise Rae at (360) 425-3430 extension 259.

Appelo Archives Center

I just became a proud member of the Appelo Archives Center. They have been so gracious to me by allowing me access to their incredible information and history of the area. This has allowed me access to information that I could give to the readers of The Wahkiakum County Eagle. This is the place to see and enjoy. The Appelo Archives Center is dedicated to encouraging the study of region-wide history by preserving historical collections, sponsoring cultural activities, facilitating genealogical research, and fostering Scandinavian studies, with an emphasis on Finnish American culture. Your support is much appreciated! They are kicking off their 2020 Archives membership: Individuals $20, Families $30 and seniors $15. For any questions regarding the Archives call 360-484-7103 or check out their website at http://www.appeloarchives.org.