Flooding reaches Clatskanie RV resort

Clatskanie RV and camping resort River's Edge experienced some unusual flooding over the weekend. At 12:30 a.m. Saturday, Luke, the on-site camp post manager for the park, alerted residents by text that the water level was exceeding the Clatskanie River's banks. With the water continuing to rise, the second protocol, notifying emergency services, was carried out. The Clatskanie Fire Department was first on the scene, going door to door and asking everyone if they wanted to stay or leave. The Red Cross opened the American Legion Hall for all who were evacuated. In addition, local restaurant Fultanos provided Pizza and Colvin's Pub and Grill provided pancakes and coffee. The assistance went beyond Clatskanie limits, as both Clatskanie and Rainier's high schools opened their gates for any RV's that needed relocation. Portland's Department of Human Services was also on site to provide help where needed. By early afternoon Saturday, the water level had exceeded 18 inches, and 20 people were evacuated, as well as six cars and three RV's. By late Sunday, the water had receded enough for most evacuated residents to return. Damages as a result of the flooding included seven cars and several RV's that were located in the lower elevation areas of the park. Despite the raised water levels, no one was injured, including pets.

According to owner Phillip Rissel, River's Edge has an extensive storm water system, designed to withstand most storms. However, Rissel admitted the park had seen "an unprecedented amount of water" over the past week. Rissel noted that six inches in four days "is not an everyday event."

Jonna Forbes, who owns River's Edge along with Rissel, said, "We believe in our community. The amount of community outreach and assistance through this event was truly appreciated. We will clean up the mess and continue to do business. Building a community is a team effort and we are all in."