In response to the increased risk of flooding this year on the Green River, the City of Renton is recruiting volunteers to assist with the city’s flood response plan.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has notified communities downstream of the Howard Hanson Dam on the Green River of an increased risk of flooding this year. This is because flood storage behind the dam is restricted after the corps became concerned about two depressions and seepage issues in the right abutment to the dam.

If Renton does experience flooding, help may be needed from volunteers to assist with sandbagging and dyke building operations, according to city officials. The city is looking for volunteers willing to learn about flood-fighting operations and assist with flood response this season if needed.

The class will be taught by City of Renton Public Works professionals. This class is a combination of classroom and “hands-on” practice. Participants should be capable of moderate physical activity. Participants will be registered as volunteer emergency workers during training and in the event of flooding. Registration for the class is required.

The class is 9 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 8, at the City of Renton Maintenance Services Division, 3555 N.E. Second Street.

For more information and to register for the class, contact Mindi Mattson at 425-430-7041.