Wahkiakum County, Washington experiences flooding and erosion that harm property, the economy, and salmon habitat, causing community tension. In response, the Wahkiakum County Marine Resources Committee launched the Wahkiakum Common Ground Workshop Series to build trust and collaboration among local and regional leaders as a foundation for future multi-benefit watershed restoration. Four workshops in 2025 combined presentations, site visits, and small-group discussions using appreciative inquiry and asset-based community development approaches. Thirty-seven leaders participated. Evaluations showed that participation increased trust, connection, confidence to collaborate, and support for shared solutions that reduce flooding and erosion and benefit people, salmon, and the economy.
