Vancouver, Wash. – Northeast Washougal River Road opened to two-way traffic Monday after a contractor cut down a large Douglas fir that threatened to fall onto power lines and the road.

A short section of the road near Northeast Paradise Road had been closed since late Thursday after a small landslide sent rocks and other debris onto the road. Public Works crews pushed the debris off the road Friday morning, but the county kept the road closed through the weekend because of the potential for more rocks and other material to fall from the hillside.

A contractor for Clark Public Utilities early Monday removed a tree that appeared to have been undermined by the slide. Rock and other material near the tree’s base were seen moving as the Douglas fir swayed in the wind Friday. That concern, along with a forecast calling for heavy rain and brisk winds over the weekend, prompted the county to keep the road closed through the weekend.

Although Northeast Washougal River Road is open to traffic, the potential for more material to fall onto the road remains. Residents are urged to stay vigilant and report falling debris.

For life-threatening emergencies, call 911 immediately. Report less urgent situations on roads in unincorporated Clark County to Public Works at 360.397.2446.

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CONTACT
Jeff Mize
Public information officer
Public Works
360.397.6118 ext. 4398
jeff.mize@clark.wa.gov