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FINAL
LOWER MADSEN CREEK
EXISTING CONDITIONS
FLOOD & SEDIMENT ASSESSMENT
Prepared for:
City of Renton Public Works
Utility Systems -- Surface Water Utility Engineering
1055 South Grady Way
Renton, WA 98057
Prepared by:
506 2nd Avenue, Suite 2700
Seattle, WA 98104
206-521-3000
March 20, 2019
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions i
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Watershed Science and Engineering would like to thank the following individuals for their
assistance in providing information that was utilized in this investigation:
Landowners
• Aran Church, King County Housing Authority
• Donna Cleveland, Property Manager Wonderland Estates
• John Schommer, Landowner
City of Renton
• Ron Straka, P.E., Utility Systems Director
• Joseph Farah, P.E., Surface Water Engineering Manager
Technical Consul t ants
• Watershed Science & Engineering
o Jeff Johnson, P.E., Project Manager and Hydraulic Engineer
o Larry Karpack, P.E., Hydrologist
o Bob Elliot, P.E., Hydraulic Engineer
o Kaleb Madsen, EIT, Jr. Hydraulic Engineer
o Hannah Hampson, Hydraulic Engineer Intern
• Herrera Environmental Consultants
• Pacific Geomatic Services
Project Funded B y
• City of Renton
• King County Flood Control District
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions ii
CONTENTS
Acknowledgements .......................................................................................... i
Landowners ............................................................................................. i
City of Renton .......................................................................................... i
Technical Consultants ................................................................................. i
Project Funded By ..................................................................................... i
Executive Summary ........................................................................................ 1
1. Introduction ............................................................................................. 4
1.1. Special Notes.................................................................................... 4
2. Background ............................................................................................. 5
2.1. Watershed Geology, Development and Stormwater ....................................... 5
2.2. Flood Control Project Construction History ................................................ 7
2.2.1. Flood History ........................................................................ 10
2.2.1. Maintenance History ............................................................... 12
2.3. Existing Conditions Field Observations ..................................................... 14
2.3.1. Channel Characteristics by Sub-Reach .......................................... 14
3. Analysis ................................................................................................ 34
3.1. Hydrology ....................................................................................... 34
3.1.1. Hydrologic Setting ................................................................ 34
3.1.2. Hydrologic Model Development ................................................ 34
3.1.3. Hydrologic Model Calibration .................................................. 39
3.1.4. Hydrologic Model Application ..................................................... 40
3.2. Hydraulic Modeling ............................................................................ 46
3.2.1. Hydraulic Model Development .................................................... 46
3.3. Sediment Transport and Deposition ........................................................ 62
3.3.1. Sediment Deposition Locations ................................................... 62
3.3.2. Sediment Grainsize Characteristics .............................................. 74
3.3.3. Sediment Basin Performance and Basin Sediment Yield ....................... 84
4. Potential Solutions ................................................................................... 89
5. Conclusions ............................................................................................ 91
6. References ............................................................................................ 92
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Madsen Creek Existing Conditions iii
TABLES
1. Construction History Madsen Creek Flood Control Project.
2. Summary of Significant Flood Events
3. Estimate of Sediment Removed from Sediment Basin and High Flow Bypass
4. Madsen Creek Sub-Reaches.
5. Annual Instantaneous Peak Flows Madsen Creek at Entrance to Sediment Basin
6. Sediment Sample Data.
7. Channel and Incipient Velocities for Stream Sediments by Sub-Reach
8. Sediment pond capture efficiency calculation based on known or estimated volumes of
sediment deposition between 1991 and 2018.
F IGURES
1. Madsen Creek Drainage Basin & Project Location Map
2. Madsen Creek Sub-Reaches
3. Madsen Creek HSPF Sub-Basins
4. Madsen Creek Watershed Land Cover
5. Madsen Creek Watershed Soils
6. Comparison of HSPF Simulated verses Observed Flows for Water Year 2011
7. Comparison of HSPF Simulated verses Observed Flows for Water Year 2015
8. Flood Frequency Curves Generated from Gage and HSPF Model Data for Period 1989 to
2018
9. Flood Frequency Curves Generated from Gage and HSPF Model Data for Period 2001 to
2018
10. Flood Frequency Curves Generated from Gage and HSPF Model Data for Period 2004 to
2018
11. Hydraulic Model Domain & Boundary Conditions
12. Manning’s n Values – Existing Conditions
13. Simulated Maximum Depths 16 February 2017 Flood Event – Existing Conditions
14. Simulated Maximum Depths 2-yr Flood Event -- Existing Conditions
15. Simulated Maximum Depths 25-yr Flood Event -- Existing Conditions
16. Simulated Maximum Depths 100-yr Flood Event -- Existing Conditions
17. Cedar River Flood Depths > 10-year Event
18. Cedar River Flood Depths 50-year Event
19. Sediment Sample Locations & Bed Material Types
20. Profile Comparison 1974 to 2018 High Flow Bypass
21. Sediment Deposition Comparison Locations
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Madsen Creek Existing Conditions iv
22. Upper High Flow Bypass Cross Section Comparison (1974 vs. 2018)
23. Lower High Flow Bypass Cross Section Comparison (1974 vs. 2018)
24. Profile Comparison 1989 to 2018 Madsen Creek Channel within Ron Regis Park
25. Park Channel Cross Section Comparison (1989 vs. 2018)
26. Grainsize Distribution Curves -- Upstream Channel and Sediment Basin
27. Grainsize Distribution Curves -- High Flow Bypass
28. Grainsize Distribution Curves -- Madsen Creek Channel Downstream from Sediment
Basin
29. Simulated Maximum Velocity 2-year Flood Event -- Existing Conditions
30. Simulated Maximum Velocity 25-year Flood Event -- Existing Conditions
31. Simulated Maximum Velocity 100-year Flood Event -- Existing Conditions
32. Rate of Sediment Deposition in Sediment Basin for a Given Inflow
33. Fraction of Flow Exiting Sediment Basin Through the High Flow Bypass
34. Approximate Distribution of Sediment Delivered to and Existing the Sediment Basin
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Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 1
EXECUTIVE S UMMARY
The portion of Madsen Creek located within the Cedar River valley is commonly referred to as
the lower Madsen Creek. Flooding problems within this reach have grown more frequent
within the past decade and the City of Renton, in partnership with King County, desires to
reduce or eliminate them. The City retained a consultant team led by Watershed Science and
Engineering to conduct an investigation to determine what is causing the flooding and to
identify feasible solutions. The project is split into two parts -- Phase 1 which is an
investigation to identify the factors that are responsible for the flooding, and Phase 2 which
will be completed in 2019, will identify and develop solutions. This report documents the
results of the Phase 1 investigation.
Flooding has been a problem along lower Madsen Creek for decades. In the 1970s and 1980s,
rapid development within the watershed increased stormwater runoff to the stream which in
turn increased flow rates and flooding along lower Madsen Creek. To reduce flooding, King
County constructed a sediment basin to decrease deposition; and a high flow flood bypass
channel to convey flood flows directly to the Cedar River. The system, which was designed in
1974, built in 1976, and improved in 1990, has performed well over the past 42 years;
however, recent flooding events indicate that further improvements are needed.
The Phase 1 existing condition assessment consisted of five technical tasks: 1) topographic
survey of the stream channel and flood bypass, 2) wetland identification and mapping, 3)
hydrologic HSPF modeling, 4) hydraulic HEC-RAS 2D modeling, and 5) a sediment transport
and deposition investigation. Items 3 through 5 are the focus of this report. Item 2 is the
subject of a separate companion report prepared by Herrera Environmental.
The results of these investigations revealed that sediment deposition is the primary cause of
the flooding due to reduced channel capacity along sections of both Madsen Creek and the
high flow flood bypass. The sediment basin is performing well, estimated to capture roughly
50% of the sediment that is delivered to the lower Madsen Creek from the upstream
watershed. Approximately, fifty-percent passes through the basin with 90% transported by
the high flow bypass and 10% by Madsen Creek (under the current sediment basin outlet
configuration in which the inlet to the Madsen Creek culvert is partly blocked by a metal
plate). On average about 800 yd3 of sediment deposits in the basin annually, which means
about 800 yd3 passes through the basin. Of this, approximately 720 yd3 exits via the high flow
bypass and 80 yd3 via Madsen Creek.
The reach of Madsen Creek most impacted by sediment deposition is located within Ron Regis
Park, downstream from 149th Avenue SE. This portion of Madsen Creek was originally
constructed in 1989. It was much larger than it is today and therefore, had the ability to
convey much larger flows. Today it is only about 25% of its original size due to sediment
deposition. Several residents and stakeholders have suggested that this is the primary cause
of recent flooding issues along 149th Avenue SE and within a mobile the home community
Wonderland Estates. This is partially true, but it must be recognized that the channel, as
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 2
constructed in 1989, was not sustainable. The original channel was much too large to be
maintained naturally by the flows carried by Madsen Creek and, therefore, it has effectively
served as a sediment trap. A sustainable channel would have required either an active
sediment management maintenance removal program or much larger flows. The size of the
channel that exists today is much more in-line with what would naturally form given the flows
that are actually carried by Madsen Creek. As a result, removing sediment from this section
of the stream would only serve as a temporary solution and would require a sustained future
sediment removal maintenance program. Additionally, sediment removal would require
environmental permits, which may not be obtained due to the current habitat value of the
reach.
The investigation identified the specific locations where water leaves the channel network
and floods adjacent developed properties. It also revealed that most of these flooding
problems can be reduced or eliminated with maintenance actions or one-time improvement
projects. Proposed solutions for each category are listed below in the order of relative
importance as viewed by the consultant team:
Recurring Maintenance Projects:
1. Restore the capacity of the high flow bypass and the SR169 culvert by removing
accumulated sediment and developing an effective sediment removal and annual
vegetation maintenance program.
2. Monitor sediment accumulations within the three culverts listed below. Remove the
sediment if it starts to limit the capacity of the culvert to the point flooding upstream
worsens. This may require removing sediment from the channel downstream of the
culvert to prevent the culvert from rapidly refilling with sediment.
a. Madsen Creek culvert under high flow bypass
b. Madsen Creek SR169 culvert
c. Madsen Creek 149th Avenue SE culvert
It is recommended that the City, County, and WSDOT work together to develop a
memorandum of understanding that specifies the entity responsible for each maintenance
activity identified in this study and the frequency and timing of that maintenance.
One-Time Improvement Projects:
3. Raise the right bank berm along the upper high flow bypass.
4. Continue to limit the amount of flow that enters Madsen Creek by either retaining the
existing plates or installing a slide gate on the entrance to the Madsen Creek culvert at
the outlet of the sediment basin.
5. Raise the right bank berm along the section of channel between SR169 and 149th
Avenue SE.
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Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 3
6. Raise the height of the ground that separates Madsen Creek from Wonderland Estates.
7. Raise the berm that surrounds the sediment pond and add a rock-lined emergency
spillway that discharges to the high flow bypass.
8. Increase culvert capacity at the downstream end of the ditch along 149th Avenue SE
either by improving the existing culvert outlet system, or preferably installing a
second culvert outlet that drains to the Cedar River and not the high flow bypass.
Also, consider enlarging the ditch.
9. Raise the ground height surrounding the entrance to the SR169 high flow bypass
culvert to provide freeboard during the 100-year flood if the entrance to the culvert
becomes partially blocked by woody debris.
10. Raise the right bank berm of Madsen Creek where it overtops near the downstream
end of the park channel.
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Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 4
1. I NTRODUCTION
Flood and sediment deposition problems along Madsen Creek are typical of those found on
small streams in reaches of transitioning channel slope. Madsen Creek collects runoff from a
large upland glacial moraine plateau then descends 400 feet through a steep hillside ravine
before flowing onto and across the floodplain of the Cedar River. The creek slope begins to
flatten as it emerges from the ravine and flows across a small alluvial fan, and flattens
further as it flows across the Cedar River floodplain before its confluence with the river. The
rapid decrease in channel slope reduces the stream’s ability to convey sediment, which
causes sediment to deposit in and beside the channel. This reduces channel capacity and in
turn increases flooding. To reduce sediment deposition and flooding, King County
constructed a sediment basin at the outlet of the ravine and a high flow flood bypass channel
from the sediment basin to the Cedar River. The system, which was built in 1976 and
improved in 1990, has performed well over the past 42 years; however, within the past
decade significant flood problems have developed which are impacting residential and
commercial properties adjacent to or near the stream. The City, in partnership with King
County, has initiated this project to determine the causes behind the flooding problems and
to identify feasible near- and long-term actions to reduce or eliminate them. Watershed
Science and Engineering, along with subconsultants Herrera Environmental and PGS Surveying,
were retained by the City to complete the investigation. The project is divided into two
phases -- Phase 1 is an existing condition assessment to determine what is causing the flood
problems, and Phase 2 is the identification and preliminary design of solutions. This report
documents the findings of the Phase 1 Existing Condition Assessment.
1.1. Special Notes
• The terms right and left are used in this report to identify the right and left sides of
the stream channel, assuming the reader is looking downstream.
• Elevations reported in this document are referenced to vertical datum NAVD’88.
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Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 5
2. B ACKGROUND
2.1. Watershed Geology, Development and Stormwater
Madsen Creek collects runoff from a large upland glacial moraine plateau and then descends
through a steep hillside ravine before flowing across the historical floodplain of the Cedar
River (Figure 1). In the 1970s, the upper plateau saw rapid residential development
(Fairwood) with stormwater runoff collected and discharged directly to Madsen Creek and its
tributaries. The larger volume of stormwater increased the frequency and magnitude of peak
flows in Madsen Creek which increased sediment recruitment and transport to the project
area, necessitating the installation of the sediment basin and high flow flood bypass channel.
Over past 40 years, actions have been taken within the upper watershed to reduce
stormwater impacts including the construction of multiple stormwater detention facilities.
These improvements have reduced sediment transport to the project area, but sediment
deposition continues to be a problem.
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King CountyRentonRentonKing CountyRentonKing CountyRenton
Esri., Inc., City of Renton, WA, City of Renton
0 1,000 2,000500 Feet ´City of Renton
Legend
Renton City Limits
Potential Annexation Area
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Print Date: 05/05/2017
Madsen CreekSediment Basin
149th Avenue SE
Ron Regis Park
Madsen CreekChannel
Madsen Creek
High Flow
Bypass Channel
Madsen CreekLow FlowChannel
Madsen Creek Drainage Basin & Project Location Map
Total Basin Area = 2.09 sq miBasin Area in King County = 1.88 sq miBasin Area in Renton = 0.21 sq mi
Madsen Creek Drainage Basin:
Lower Madsen
Creek Project
Reach
Figure 1Figure created by Renton Public Works
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 7
2.2. Flood Control Project Construction History
Table 1 provides a historical account of the construction of the Madsen Creek flood control
system, compiled from existing documents and discussions with landowners and property
managers. Each key event is identified in the table and described in greater detail following
the table.
Table 1. Construction History Madsen Creek Flood Control Project.
Year Event
1976 King County built the original flood control system which included:
• sediment basin.
• high flow bypass channel.
1989 King County relocated Madsen Creek downstream from 149th Avenue SE to
flow through land owned by City of Renton Parks, now Ron Regis Park. The
project included:
• new culvert under 149th Avenue SE.
• small “sediment trap” just downstream from 149th Avenue SE.
• improvements to the ditch along the east side of 149th Avenue SE.
• filling of the abandoned portion of Madsen Creek downstream from
149th Avenue SE.
• log weirs at the mouth of Madsen Creek to allow fish to enter the
stream from the Cedar River.
1993 to
1995 (est.)
WSDOT widened SR169. Project included:
• new box culvert under SR169 and the Cedar River Trail for high flow
bypass channel.
• extension of Madsen Creek box culvert under SR169 and the Cedar
River Trail.
• new Madsen Creek box culvert under high flow bypass channel.
• modifying Madsen Creek channel along south side of SR169 in front of
Wonderland Estates.
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 8
1996 King County modified the primary sediment basin to make sure that during
low flow periods the water entering the sediment basin exited to Madsen
Creek and not to the high flow bypass. Project included:
• lowering the floor of the sediment basin one foot.
• lowering the 36” CMP culvert that discharges to Madsen Creek one
foot.
• installing a weir just upstream from the high flow bypass outlet
culvert to divert low flows directly into the Madsen Creek low flow
channel.
• elevating the floor of the high flow bypass outlet culvert 0.8 feet.
• installing an additional log weir at the inlet to the sediment basin.
1997/1998 City of Renton installed a bridge over Madsen Creek as part of building the
entrance road to Ron Regis Park.
1998 King County replaced the log weirs at entrance to sediment basin.
2002 King County constructed a concrete side weir just upstream from the 149th
Avenue SE culvert on the right bank at entrance to road-side ditch.
2009/2010 New Life Church detention pond was expanded and a new outlet pipe
system discharging directly to Madsen Creek was installed. The discharge
point from the outlet is 20 feet upstream from the Madsen Creek culvert
that passes under the high flow bypass.
Additional detail describing the events in Table 1
• 1976 (King County, 1974) – Original flood control system was constructed. System
elements included:
o Sediment basin outlet:
▪ The entrance to the high flow bypass was an open trapezoidal channel.
▪ The connection to Madsen Creek was through two 36” by 22” CMP
culverts.
o High flow bypass channel:
▪ Three 58” by 36” CMP culverts carried the high flow bypass under SR169
and a wooden trestle carried it under the railroad.
o Two 36” by 22” CMP culverts carried Madsen Creek under the high flow bypass
just upstream from the SR169.
• 1989 (King County, 1989) – Madsen Creek downstream from 149th Avenue SE was
relocated to flow through land owned by City of Renton Parks. Project included:
o New 9’2” by 3’3” structural arch culvert under 149th Avenue SE near
intersection with SR169.
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 9
o Channel was diverted from the roadside ditch along the east side of 149th
Avenue SE into a newly constructed channel through park land. The roadside
ditch remained.
o Downstream portion of the roadside ditch along 149th Avenue SE was extended
to the high flow bypass channel just upstream from the two 72” CMP culverts
that connect the high flow bypass to the Cedar River. The ditch extension
included an open ditch segment and two 18” culvert pipe segments in series,
one that included an inline 48” type 2 catch basin which houses a backflow
check value.
o Two 36-inch existing culverts originally carried the roadside ditch portion of
Madsen Creek under 149th Avenue SE at a site approximately 700 feet north of
SR169. One culvert has been plugged with concrete and at the other a 48”
type 2 catch basin was installed at its outlet. The basin does not have an
outlet other than a grate on top.
• 1993 to 1995 (est.) (WSDOT 1993) – SR169 was widened and three new box culverts
installed. Project included:
o New 8’ by 6’ concrete box culvert was installed to carry the high flow bypass
under SR169. This new culvert was extended north to pass under the Cedar
River Trail (formally the railroad grade).
o The existing Madsen Creek culvert under SR169 was extended north to
accommodate the highway widening and to pass under the trail. The existing
culvert was a 6’ by 3’ concrete box. It was extended by adding a 6’ by 4’ box
to the north end and filling the floor of the extension with 12 inches of stream
bed gravel.
o New 6’ by 4’ concrete box culvert was installed to carry Madsen Creek under
the high flow bypass. It replaced two 36’ by 22’CMP culverts.
• 1996 (King County, 1996) – sediment basin inlet and outlet were modified. Project
included:
o One log weir was added at sediment basin inlet 10 feet downstream from
existing log weirs.
o One log weir was installed at sediment basin outlet approximately 10 feet
upstream from the 36” CMP culvert that connects to Madsen Creek.
o A concrete weir was installed approximately five feet upstream from concrete
box culvert that connects to the high flow bypass.
o The 36” CMP outlet pipe to Madsen Creek was lowered one foot.
o The fill along the downstream side of the sediment basin was raised to
elevation 120.5 feet (datum not specified).
• 1997/1998 (City of Renton, 1997) – New bridge installed over Madsen Creek along the
park entrance road. Project included:
o An 18-foot wide reinforced cast-in-place single span bridge.
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 10
• 1998 (King County, 1997) – The log weirs at the entrance to the sediment basin were
replaced
• 2002 (King County, 2002) – A concrete weir was constructed at entrance to the road-
side ditch along east side of 149th Avenue SE.
o This was installed to reduce flooding along 149th Avenue SE by limiting the
amount of flow entering the road-side ditch.
• 2009/2010 (Barghausen, 2009) – New Life Church detention pond was expanded and a
new outlet pipe system installed that discharges to Madsen Creek just upstream from
high flow bypass undercrossing.
o The pipe is a 24” Corrugated Poly Ethylene Pipe (CPEP).
2.2.1. Floo d Hi story
Madsen Creek has experienced a number of notable floods since the early 1970s. Significant
events are identified in Table 2 below, followed by a description of many of these events by
persons that live and work in the area.
Table 2. Summary of Significant Flood Events.
Year Event
1960 to 1972 No noteworthy floods occurred
February 28, 1972 First major flood in 1972
March 2, 1972 Second major flood in 1972
September 21 to 23,
1972
Third major flood in 1972. This event produced major landslides in
Madsen Creek ravine
1970 to 1990 Other instances of flooding between 1972 and 1990 have likely
occurred but were not reported or documented.
January 9, 1990 Flood of record
December 2005 and
January 2006
Floods inundated portions of Wonderland Estates
1990 to 2016 Other instances of flooding between 1990 and 2016 have likely
occurred but were not reported or documented.
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 11
October and
November 2016
Flooding along 149th Avenue SE
February 9 and 15-
16, 2017
Significant flooding along 149th Avenue SE which resulted in a claim
against King County and the City of Renton by a landowner
January 11 and 15,
and April 16 2018
Flooding within Wonderland Estates
Mr. Kolcsey, owner and developer of the Wonderland Estates Mobile Home Park, provided the
following written historical account of flooding problems along lower Madsen Creek (Kolcsey,
1990).
• Mr. Kolcsey stated that prior to 1972 there were no flood problems.
• First significant flood occurred February 28, 1972 and another one a few days later on
March 2, 1972. In Mr. Kolcsey’s opinion the cause was “overloaded Madsen Creek by
the Fairwood development, and lack of proper maintenance by King County.”
• A third significant flood occurred between September 21 and 23, 1972.
• The largest and most damaging flood occurred on January 9, 1990 flood. According to
Mr. Kolcsey, the amount of water overwhelmed the stream, clogged culverts with
debris and sediment, forcing flood over the sediment basin berm causing water to flow
into and through Wonderland Estates.
The property manager at Wonderland Estates met with project team members on June 28,
2018. She noted that flooding within the parking area at the front of Wonderland Estates has
been relatively frequent, although the stormwater system improvements installed in 2012
have helped reduce flooding. She noted that in December 2005 and January 2006 floods
inundated the Wonderland Estates office and that floods in 2018 on January 11 and 15 and
April 16 flooded the parking area.
The owner of the private residence immediately east of Wonderland Estates met with project
team members on August 27, 2018. It was his opinion that recent flooding on his property
and within Wonderland Estates is due to lack of capacity within Madsen Creek downstream
from 149th Avenue SE.
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 12
The property owner at 15205 149th Avenue SE also met with project team members on August
27, 2018 and provided the following observations and opinions:
• The ditch along 149th Avenue SE has filled up with flood water 10 to 15 times in the
past two years.
• Water stops moving at the north end of 149th Avenue SE because the 18-inch CMP
culvert(s) that connect the ditch to the high flow bypass channel is too small.
• The property owner showed where two 36-inch concrete culverts used to carry Madsen
Creek under 149th Avenue SE prior to the stream diversion into and through the park in
1989. The upstream culvert has been plugged with concrete. The downstream culvert
is open and ties into a catch basin on the west side of the road. The catch basin is a
tall standpipe with the top extending approximately one foot above the ground. The
standpipe has an open grate on the top. During the 1990 flood, the property owner
said someone broke a foot wide by six-inch tall hole in the side of the standpipe which
allowed water to flow out and enter a neighboring constructed fish habitat channel.
This helped drain water and lower flood levels on 149th Avenue SE. The hole has been
filled.
• He stated that the plate installed over the entrance to the culvert that exits the
sediment basin has helped reduce the frequency of flooding along 149th Avenue SE.
The plate was installed by the City in 2018.
• His property flooded twice in February 2017. The first time was on the 9th and the
second was on the 16th. During both events, water overtopped the right bank of
Madsen Creek upstream from 149th Avenue SE. This water flowed to his house through
a swale in the backyard of his neighbor. During the February 16 flood water rose to
within one inch of the top step at his front door (about 14 inches deep), he had about
12 inches of water in his garage, and water rose to the first row of siding along the
south side of his house.
• He stated that King County mows the high flow bypass downstream from SR169 once or
twice a year. He agreed that this is good, but he is concerned that the County also
needs to improve conveyance by removing other obstructions in the floor the channel
(e.g. sediment, old stumps and rocks, etc.).
• He said that following the 2017 floods, King County concluded that the 149th Avenue SE
ditch was not the cause of the flooding, but rather the ditch was receiving too much
flow due to lack of capacity within Madsen Creek downstream from 149th Avenue SE.
2.2.1. Maintenance History
Maintenance records provided by the City reveal that the sediment basin has been cleaned
almost annually since 1981 and that portions of the high flow bypass channel have also been
cleaned several times (Table 3).
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 13
Table 3. Estimate of Sediment Removed from Sediment Basin and High Flow Bypass.
Year1
Volume Removed from
Sediment Basin and High
Flow Bypass Channel (yd3) Notes
1981 912 Approx. 680 yd3 from basin, 232 yd3 from channel
1984 1428 Unknown if material removed from high flow bypass
1985 624 20% additional volume removed from high flow bypass
1986 1630 Same as above
1987 1424 Same as above
1988 948 Same as above
1989 720 Same as above
1990 6386 Same as above
1991 1860 Unknown if material removed from high flow bypass
1992 552 Same as above
1993 280 Same as above
1994 890 Same as above
1995 830 Same as above
1996 3430 Same as above
1997 1100 Same as above
1998 460 No sediment removed from the high flow bypass
1999 500 Same as above
2000 260 Same as above
2001 270 Same as above
2002 1117 Same as above
2003 70 Same as above
2004 850 Same as above
2005 390 370 yd3 from basin 20 yd3 from high flow bypass
2006 500 No sediment removed from the high flow bypass
2009 unknown2 Same as above
2010 unknown2 Same as above
2011 unknown2 Same as above
2013 unknown2 Same as above
2014 unknown2 Same as above
2015 unknown2 Same as above
2016 unknown2 Same as above
2017 unknown2 Sediment removed from upper high flow bypass.
Quantity unknown.
2018 unknown2 No sediment removed from the high flow bypass
1King County cleaned the sediment basin 1981 through 2006. The City of Renton took over maintenance in 2009.
2The volume removed from the sediment basin was not recorded.
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 14
2.3. Existing Conditions Field Observations
2.3.1. Channel Characteristics by Sub -Reach
The channel network includes a number of geomorphically unique sub-reaches. These sub-
reaches are identified in Table 4 and shown in Figure 2. A description and photographs of
each sub-reach are provided after the figure.
Table 4. Madsen Creek Sub-Reaches.
Sub-Reach Location
A Madsen Creek upstream from sediment basin
B Sediment basin
C Madsen Creek from sediment basin to culvert under high flow bypass
D Madsen Creek from culvert under high flow bypass to 149th Avenue SE
E Madsen Creek from 149th Avenue SE through Ron Regis Park
F
Madsen Creek open water wetland downstream from Ron Regis Park to
Cedar River
G High flow bypass channel upstream from SR169
H High flow bypass channel downstream from SR169
I Ditch along east side of 149th Avenue SE
!(B
!(A
!(D
!(F
!(I
!(H
!(G
!(E
!(C
Figure 2
Madsen Creek
Sub-Reaches
27 Jan 2019
0 270 540
Feet
Scale: 1:4,555NAD 1983 HARNStatePlane WashingtonNorth FIPS 4601 Feet
U
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 16
Sub-Reach A: Madsen Creek Upstream of Sediment Basin
Channel Type: Pool Riffle
Bed Material Characteristics: Gravel / Cobble, d50 = 50mm, d90= 250mm
Large Wood: Typical characteristics of small natural streams found in the pacific northwest--
logs visible in stream bed, downed trees spanning channel from bank to bank.
Vegetation Characteristics: Naturally vegetated stream banks and floodplain – alder and
maple trees, salmon berry, black berry, etc.
Comments: Channel appears to be stable and in equilibrium.
Photo 1. Typical channel upstream from sediment basin (Photo taken June 7, 2018).
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 17
Sub-Reach B: Sediment Basin
Channel Type: Constructed Basin
Bed Material Characteristics: Gravel with a few small cobbles, d50 = 10mm at head of basin
grading to fine sand and silt at the outlet.
Vegetation Characteristics: Alder trees line the banks except along the right (east) side
which is intentionally open to allow machinery access to clean sediment from the basin
annually.
Structures: Inlet weirs and outlet weirs and culverts.
Photo 2. Viewing south (upstream) across sediment basin to weirs at entrance (January 19,
2018).
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 18
Photo 3. Viewing northeast (downstream) toward the outlet of the sediment basin (January
19, 2018).
Photo 4. Viewing upstream (south) to log weirs at the entrance to the sediment basin (June
7, 2018).
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 19
Photo 5. The inlet to flow bypass pipe located within weir reach at upstream end of the
sediment basin. Plate that covers inlet is missing.
Photo 6. The culvert
at the basin outlet
that carries water
from the sediment
basin to Madsen
Creek. Two metal
plates have been
installed to reduce
the amount of flow
that is conveyed to
Madsen Creek. They
cover approximately
three-quarters of the
inlet (June 7, 2018).
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 20
Photo 7. Viewing downstream (north) to the box culvert and weir at the outlet of the
sediment basin which discharges to the high flow bypass. The floor of the culvert is partially
undermined (June 2018).
Photos 8 and 9. Concrete weir at sediment basin outlet (flow is from right to left). The
outlet pipe to Madsen Creek is visible in background. Photo 9 is viewing upstream to the
outlet of the culvert that discharges to the high flow bypass (June 7 and January 19, 2018).
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 21
Sub-Reach C: Madsen Creek natural channel between sediment basin and culvert under
high flow bypass
Channel Type: Pool-Riffle
Bed Material Characteristics: Gravel upstream grading to fine sand at high flow bypass
undercrossing.
Vegetation Characteristics: Thick buffer of alder trees and blackberry.
Large Wood: Reach does not contain large pieces of wood, but it does contain numerous
small trees on the banks and across the stream.
Structures: A small wooden foot bridge in the upper portion of the reach provides the church
access to the track and play field.
Photos 10 and 11. Typical example of Madsen Creek within sub-reach C (June 7, 2018).
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 22
Photo 12. Stormwater pipe outlet. Pipe carries stormwater to Madsen Creek from the church
property and development east of church (June 7, 2018).
Photo 13. Inlet to Madsen Creek culvert under high flow bypass (June 7, 2018).
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 23
Sub-Reach D: Madsen Creek channel from culvert under high flow bypass to 149th Avenue
SE
Channel Type: Constructed ditch upstream from SR169. Channel downstream from SR169
has a natural appearance, but likely has been modified over the past 40 years.
Bed Material Characteristics: Fine gravel to sand and silt
Vegetation Characteristics: Grass along ditch upstream from SR169 and blackberries and
small alder trees downstream.
Large Wood: Ditch segment has no wood. Small maple and alder trees line banks
downstream from SR169.
Structures: Culverts under High Flow Bypass and SR169
Photo 14. Viewing east (upstream) along excavated ditch along the south side of SR169.
Photo 15. Typical channel between SR169 and 149th Avenue SE.
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 24
Photos 16 and 17. Entrance to Madsen Creek culvert under SR169 viewing upstream (east)
and downstream (west) respectively (June 7, 2018).
Photos 18 and 19. Entrance to Madsen Creek 149th Ave SE Culvert (June 7 & January 19, 2018).
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 25
Sub-Reaches E and F: Madsen Creek channel from 149th Avenue SE through Ron Regis
Park to Cedar River
Channel Type: Plain Bed
Bed Material Characteristics: Fine sand with silt at channel margins and on inset benches
Vegetation Characteristics: Small alder and thick blackberries.
Large Wood: Small diameter pieces are present on the channel bed. Large wood was
installed in the channel bed when the channel was constructed in 1989, but it has been
completely covered with silt and sand. Numerous small live maple tree trunks crisscross the
channel.
Structures: 149th Avenue SE culvert, Sediment Trap (oversized channel segment) in channel
just downstream from 149th Avenue SE, Park entrance road bridge.
Photo 20. Viewing upstream (east) along Madsen Creek through sediment trap to 149th Avenue
SE culvert (January 19, 2018). Photo 21. Typical channel segment between the sediment trap
and the bridge on the park entrance road (June 7, 2018).
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 26
Photo 22. Typical Madsen Creek channel within Park. Photo 23. Abandoned channel that
once carried the stream to the Cedar River before it was diverted into the pond in Photo 24
below. It is now filled with Reed Canary grass. (Both photos taken June 7, 2018).
Photo 24. Viewing into pond at location where Madsen Creek enters pond (June 7, 2018).
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 27
Photo 25. Viewing downstream to the park entrance road bridge over Madsen Creek (June 7,
2018).
Photo 26. Upstream side of park entrance road bridge over Madsen Creek. Photo 27. Flood
protection berm/ecology block wall along west side of Madsen Creek along the Ron Regis Park
cricket field (January 19, 2018).
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 28
Sub-Reach G: High flow bypass channel upstream from SR169
Channel Type: Constructed trapezoidal earth channel
Bed Material Characteristics: Riprap is visible in the floor of the upstream portion of the
channel; but no riprap was visible in the downstream portion above the Madsen Creek culvert
undercrossing. Riprap is present between the undercrossing and the SR169 culvert.
Vegetation Characteristics: Grass
Large Wood: None
Structures: Madsen Creek natural channel culvert undercrossing and SR169 culvert.
Photo 28. Viewing upstream (south) along high flow bypass upstream from SR169.
Photo 29. Viewing downstream (north) to SR169 (Both photos taken January 19, 2018).
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 29
Photo 30. Viewing upstream (south) to exposed top of culvert that carries Madsen Creek
under the high flow bypass (June 7, 2018).
Photo 31. Viewing downstream (north) to SR169. Person is standing on top of the Madsen
Creek culvert that passes under high flow bypass channel (June 7, 2018).
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 30
Photo 32. Viewing downstream (north) to entrance of culvert that carries the high flow
bypass under SR169 (June 7, 2018).
Photo 33. Viewing upstream (south) to the outlet of the high flow bypass culvert under SR169
(June 7, 2018).
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 31
Sub-Reach H: High Flow Bypass channel downstream from SR169
Channel Type: Constructed trapezoidal earth channel
Bed Material Characteristics: Silt and sand
Vegetation Characteristics: Grass, blackberries, and brush.
Large Wood: None
Structures: Two 72-inch CMP pipes at outlet to Cedar River.
Photos 34 and 35. Viewing downstream (north) along High flow bypass downstream from SR
169. Photo 34 taken on January 19, 2018 shortly after the channel was mowed. Photo 35 was
taken June 7, 2018; vegetation in channel is eight feet tall and dense.
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 32
Photo 36. Viewing downstream (north) to the inlet of the twin 6-foot CMP pipes at the end of
the high flow bypass (January 19, 2018).
Photo 37. Viewing downstream (northwest) along Cedar River at outlet of high flow bypass
culverts (January 19, 2018).
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 33
Sub-Reach I: Ditch along east side of 149th Avenue SE
Channel Type: Constructed ditch
Bed Material Characteristics: Silty sand
Vegetation Characteristics: Grass and black berries
Large Wood: None
Structures: Concrete side weir into ditch, Multiple driveway bridges, 18-inch CMP culvert
connecting ditch to high flow bypass, and 36-inch concrete culvert under 149th Avenue SE near
north end of road that connects to a vertical catch basin.
Photo 38. Viewing downstream (north) along ditch along the east side of 149th Avenue SE
(January 19, 2018). Photo 39. One of the 18-inch culverts at end of ditch (June 28, 2018).
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 34
3. A NALYSIS
Three technical disciplines were examined as part of the existing condition assessment –
hydrology, hydraulics, and sediment transport and deposition. Methods and results for each
are presented below.
3.1. Hydrology
3.1.1. Hydrologic Setting
Madsen Creek collects runoff from a 1,400-acre upland glacial moraine plateau to the south
side of the Cedar River valley, in the community of Fairwood east of Renton. The Madsen
Creek drainage basin saw rapid development, primarily in residential construction, in the
1970s and 1980s. This development led to higher discharges, and subsequently, the current
flooding and sedimentation problems in Madsen Creek, as described previously. The Madsen
Creek drainage basin includes approximately 1,245 acres upstream of the sediment basin.
Land-use upstream of the sediment basin consists primarily of medium density residential,
golf course development, and steep forested hillslopes. Downstream of the sediment basin
the Madsen Creek drainage basin covers approximately 155 acres. Land uses in this area
include a mobile home park, a large Church, high density residential development, portions of
SR-169, and less developed park and pasture areas in the Cedar River floodplain.
King County operates a stream gaging station (KC Gage 31d) on Madsen Creek upstream of the
sediment basin. This gage has been in operation since October 1987 and provides 15-minute
flow and stage data for Madsen Creek.
3.1.2. Hydrologic Model Development
A Hydrologic Simulation Program – FORTRAN (HSPF) model was developed and calibrated for
the Madsen Creek drainage basin. The HSPF model includes 21 sub-basins as shown in Figure
3. Previous hydrologic modeling for the Madsen Creek basin was completed in the early 1990s
by King County as part of the Cedar River Current and Future Conditions Report (King County,
1993). That model was obtained from King County (Jeff Burkey, personal communication,
2018) for this study and used as the basis for the current model development. Updates to the
model were made to reflect current data, changed land-use conditions, additional or
modified stormwater management facilities, and the requirements of the current project.
The HSPF model developed for this project was calibrated to data from the Madsen Creek
stream gage.
Sediment Basin
39 42
6057
36
18
9
1
27
33
12
3
13
24
21
30
54
6
45 48
51
CedarRiver
Madsen Creek Watershed
§¨¦5
§¨¦90
28 Jan 2019
0 1,100 2,200
Feet
Scale: 1:19,487NAD 1983 HARNStatePlane WashingtonSouth FIPS 4602 Feet U
Figure 3
Sub-Basins
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 36
Input data for the HSPF model were derived from the following sources:
• Topographic data - 2016 LiDAR dataset available on WADNR LiDAR Portal
• Land cover data – based on GIS processing of USGS 2012 NAIP imagery
• Soils Data: NRCS Soil Survey Geographic (SSURGO) database
Drainage subbasins in the Madsen Creek drainage basin were delineated at key hydraulic
controls and points of interest. Subbasins were delineated using the 2016 LiDAR topographic
data and these delineations were checked against the earlier King County model. Differences
or discrepancies between these delineations were field verified to confirm the new model
basin boundaries were appropriate. Stage storage discharge relationships (FTABLEs in HSPF)
for each subbasin were adapted from the earlier King County model or developed based on
review of the conveyance system characteristics in each subbasin.
Land cover inputs for the HSPF model were developed by image processing of the
multispectral NAIP aerial photos. This process utilizes the four bands available in the NAIP
imagery (red, green, blue, and near infrared) and performs a textural analysis to delineate
areas with similar land cover. The following six categories of land cover were delineated:
impervious, bare ground, pasture grass, lawn or turf, forest, and open water. Land cover in
several “test areas” was first hand delineated and used to train the classification process.
Land cover for the entire drainage basin was then delineated using the automated process,
and spot checks were made to verify the final delineation. The final land cover classification
is shown in Figure 4.
Soils data for the Madsen Creek basin were obtained from the NRCS SSURGO database. Data
were downloaded from the Web Soil Survey at
https://websoilsurvey.sc.egov.usda.gov/App/WebSoilSurvey.aspx. Soils data were grouped
into three categories as follows: till, outwash, and wetland/water based on hydrologic
properties of the soil units. All but a small portion of the basin is underlain by Till as shown
in Figure 5.
The subbasins, land cover, and soils data were then overlain with each other in GIS and
polygons created for each combination of these (e.g. Sub basin 1/Forest/Till). The output of
the GIS processing was then imported into Excel and post processed to generate HSPF inputs.
HSPF requires the acreage of each combination of soil and land cover for each subbasin. For
most land cover classes this simply involved summing the polygons by soil and cover. For
impervious areas, however, an additional step was required. The spectral image processing
delineates total impervious area (TIA) but hydrologic modeling is typically based on effective
impervious area (EIA). The difference is that EIA assumes that some portion of the TIA is not
well connected to the conveyance system (for example older residential roof top drainage
spilling out onto lawns) and as such responds hydrologically more like grass than impervious.
There is no single value of the ratio between TIA and EIA that is appropriate for all areas but
WSE’s experience is that in a basin with mostly older residential development like the Madsen
Creek basin this ratio should be approximately 50%. Therefore, for the current work, a value
of 50% was initially selected and then tested as part of the model calibration process.
CedarRiver
Watershed Land Cover
§¨¦5
§¨¦90
13 Dec 2018
0 1,100 2,200Feet
Scale: 1:19,357NAD 1983 HARNStatePlane WashingtonSouth FIPS 4602 Feet U
Madsen Creek
Figure 4
Bare Ground
Forest
Impervious
Pasture
Turf/Lawn
Open Water
CedarRiver
Watershed Soil Classifications
§¨¦5
§¨¦90
13 Dec 2018
0 1,100 2,200
Feet
Scale: 1:19,357NAD 1983 HARNStatePlane WashingtonSouth FIPS 4602 Feet U
Madsen Creek
Figure 5
Outwash
Till
Wetland
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 39
HSPF defines runoff response using 16 parameters for each pervious hydrologic unit (PERLND)
and four parameters for each impervious unit (IMPLND). PERLNDs corresponding to the
following classes were defined in HSPF: Till forest all slopes, Till pasture all slopes, Till grass
all slopes, Outwash forest all slopes, Outwash pasture all slopes, Outwash grass all slopes, and
saturated soils all covers and slopes. PERLND and IMPND parameters for the initial model
setup were obtained from the King County model. These parameters were subsequently
calibrated as described below.
The HSPF model was configured using the sub-basin, soils and cover data described above.
The other major input required for the HSPF model is meteorological data. Meteorological
data for the current study was obtained from the following sources:
• Precipitation data – 15-minute data from King County gage 31Y2 Fairwood (2009-2018),
King County gage 31Y Fairwood (1995-2009), and King County gage 31W Layton (1987-
1995). Missing data in the precipitation data time series were infilled using data from
King County gage 31Z Hobart times a multiplier of 0.75.
• Evaporation Data – daily data from Puyallup Experimental Station for 1948 – 2012
provided by King County (Jeff Burkey, personal communication, 2018) extended using
long term monthly averages
3.1.3. Hydrologic Model Calibrat ion
The HSPF model was configured using the data described above and run for the period
October 1, 1987 through May 14, 2018. Discharges at key locations in the model were saved to
WDM database and reviewed as part of the model calibration. Simulated data for Madsen
Creek upstream of the sediment basin was saved as Data Set (DSN) 130. These data were
compared to the observed King County Madsen Creek gage data and the following parameters
were evaluated: mean annual flow, mean winter (November – March) flow, and annual peak
flows. Although the King County gage data extends back to 1987 the comparisons were only
made for data from 2001 to present. Review of the King County data and discussions with
King County staff (Dan Smith, personal communication, 2018) led WSE to conclude that data
prior to 2001 was suspect.
Initial calibration runs showed a fair match to the observed data. However, some of the HSPF
PERLND parameters used in the earlier King County model seemed unusual relative to more
recent model calibration studies (Dinicola, 2001). Therefore, WSE changed the model PERLND
parameters to match values determined by the USGS in a regional study of Puget Sound
(Dinicola, 1990) and then made final calibration adjustments to that parameter data set.
The calibrated HSPF model matched observed annual runoff volumes within 4% and observed
seasonal runoff volumes within 2%. Calibration of peak flows was evaluated by comparing
simulated and observed runoff over the period of record. Figures 6 and 7 show plots of
average daily flows for two years in the record, water year 2011 which had one of the highest
flows in recent years and water year 2015 which had more moderate flows. As shown in
Figures 6 and 7 the simulated results generally match the observed data quite well including
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 40
the rise, peak, and recession of significant storm events as well as base flows. Flood flow
frequency curves generated from the simulated and observed data were also compared.
Figures 8 to 10 show this comparison for three different periods of record as follows:
• 1989 – 2018 covering the full period of record for both the simulation and the Madsen
Creek gage (Figure 8)
• 2001 – 2018 covering the period for which the flow data are considered reasonably
accurate and used for volume comparisons (Figure 9)
• 2004 – 2018 covering the period with the most accurate gage data, based on review of
the peak discharge observations and discussions with KC staff (Figure 10)
As seen in these figures, the HSPF simulated peak flows do a reasonably good job at matching
flow frequency quantiles across each of the reporting periods (2- through 100-year flows
matched within 15% or better for all comparison periods). In particular, the match for the
period 2004 to 2018 is exceptionally good. This is the period with the most reliable gage
data. However, it should be noted that because the period of record for this last comparison
is quite short from a frequency analysis perspective caution must be used when making
judgements based on these curves. Fortuitously for the current study, the frequency analyses
for all three periods result in very similar flow quantiles meaning that the flow frequency
data for any of these periods can be used for this and other locations without biasing the
results.
Table 5. Annual Instantaneous Peak Flows Madsen Creek at Entrance to Sediment Basin.
Flow Quantile (cfs)
Period of Comparison 2-year 10-year 100-year
1989 - 2018 100 173 286
2001 - 2018 102 176 284
2004 - 2018 109 184 294
3.1.4. Hydr ologic Model Application
The calibrated HSPF model was used to generate inflows to the hydraulic model. A version of
the HSPF model was set up without any streamflow routing downstream of the sediment basin
(except in the few locations where the conveyance system was not included in the hydraulic
model). This HSPF model was run for the period of record and unrouted outflows for each
hydraulic model inflow point were saved to the WDM. These were then exported from the
WDM and imported to a HEC-DSS database for use in the hydraulic modeling described in
Section 3.2.
Figure 6. Comparison of HSPF Simulated verses Observed Flows for Water Year 2011.
Data from Water Year 2011
Madsen Creek upstream of Sediment Basin
Simulated versus Observed Flows
Data Set:summed over 24 hours
Summed over a 24 hour fixed window
Madsen Creek Above Sed Pond (KC Gage 31D)
Madsen Creek SB 30 Flow (KC Gage) WSE Parm
KC-WLRD 15-MIN PRECIP GAGE 31Y2 [Aux Axis]
OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEPVolume (acft)0.
30.
60.
90.
120.
0.0
5.0Precip(in/d)?
Figure 7. Comparison of HSPF Simulated verses Observed Flows for Water Year 2015.
Data from Water Year 2015
Madsen Creek upstream of Sediment Basin
Simulated versus Observed Flows
Data Set:summed over 24 hours
Summed over a 24 hour fixed window
Madsen Creek Above Sed Pond (KC Gage 31D)
Madsen Creek SB 30 Flow (KC Gage) WSE Parm
KC-WLRD 15-MIN PRECIP GAGE 31Y2 [Aux Axis]
OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEPVolume (acft)0.
30.
60.
90.
120.
0.0
5.0Precip(in/d)?
Figure 7. Flood Frequency Curves Generated from Gage and HSPF Model Data for Period 1989 to 2018.
Percent Chance Exceedance
Madsen Creek Above Sed Pond (KC Gage 31D)
Madsen Creek SB 30 Flow (KC Gage) WSE Parm
Fit Type:Log Pearson III distribution using the method of Bulletin 17B, Hosking Plotting Position
Annual Peak Frequency Analysis
Observed versus Simulated Peak Flows at Sediment Basin
Madsen Creek Flood Flow Frequency Analysis
Discharge (cfs)0.
40.
80.
120.
160.
200.
240.
280.
320.
Ret Period(years)-->100251052
19649010802050
Figure 8. Flood Frequency Curves Generated from Gage and HSPF Model Data for Period 2001 to 2018.
Percent Chance Exceedance
Madsen Creek Above Sed Pond (KC Gage 31D)
Madsen Creek SB 30 Flow (KC Gage) WSE Parm
Fit Type:Log Pearson III distribution using the method of Bulletin 17B, Hosking Plotting Position
Annual Peak Frequency Analysis
Observed versus Simulated Peak Flows at Sediment Basin
Madsen Creek Flood Flow Frequency Analysis
Discharge (cfs)0.
40.
80.
120.
160.
200.
240.
280.
320.
Ret Period(years)-->100251052
19649010802050
Figure 9. Flood Frequency Curves Generated from Gage and HSPF Model Data for Period 2004 to 2018.
Percent Chance Exceedance
Madsen Creek Above Sed Pond (KC Gage 31D)
Madsen Creek SB 30 Flow (KC Gage) WSE Parm
Fit Type:Log Pearson III distribution using the method of Bulletin 17B, Hosking Plotting Position
Annual Peak Frequency Analysis
Observed versus Simulated Peak Flows at Sediment Basin
Madsen Creek Flood Flow Frequency Analysis
Discharge (cfs)0.
40.
80.
120.
160.
200.
240.
280.
320.
Ret Period(years)-->100251052
99 19649010802050
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 46
3.2. H ydrau lic Modeling
3.2.1. Hydraulic Model Development
Hydraulic conditions within the project area are complex; therefore, WSE elected to create a
two-dimensional HEC-RAS numerical model of the entire stream network. The model domain,
which is illustrated in Figure 11, begins upstream of the sediment basin, and includes the
basin, the stream channel, high flow bypass, ditch along 149th Avenue SE and all surrounding
floodplain areas that may be impacted by flooding. The colored lines and dots in Figure 11
are boundary condition locations which are discussed below.
Topographic Surface
The topographic surface used in the HEC-RAS 2D model was developed from existing LiDAR
and ground survey data collected as part of this investigation. The LiDAR was collected in
2016 and was obtained from the Washington Department of Natural Resources LiDAR portal
(WADNR, 2018). The ground survey included cross section and profile surveys of all channel
segments including the sediment basin, stream channel, high flow bypass, and 149th Avenue
SE ditch. It also included surveys of all culverts and bridges. The survey was performed by
Pacific Geomatic Services (PGS) in June and July 2018 (PGS, 2018).
Hydraulic Structures
Bridges, culverts, and weirs are present throughout the model domain. Each structure was
represented in the model geometry using the HEC-RAS 2D flow connection and structure
editor. Structure dimensions were based on field survey data collected by PGS and
supplemented with field measurements collected by WSE. The latest version of HEC-RAS 2D
at the time of this analysis (version 5.0.5, USACE, 2016) does not have the capability to
represent bridges. Therefore, bridges are represented as culverts in the model, which given
the small size of the bridges is a reasonable assumption.
Hydraulic Roughness
Surface roughness, in the form of Manning’s n values, is based on engineering judgement and
was refined during model validation. Final n values used in the existing condition model are
shown in Figure 12. Noteworthy comments regarding the values are:
1) The portion of the high flow bypass downstream from SR169 was assigned an elevated
roughness because the channel was choked with dense and tall vegetation during field
inspections in October 2018, just prior to flood season. King County is responsible for
maintaining this reach and they mowed the channel in January 2018, and again in November
2018 following a letter sent by the City of Renton. However, for the purpose of existing
conditions modeling, a conservative approach has been taken and the higher roughness
reflecting the dense vegetation was assigned to this reach.
2) Instead of modifying the terrain to include the numerous mobile homes, carports, and
sheds within Wonderland Estates and the housing development just to the west, the entire
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 47
area was assigned a high n-value designed to account for the blockage effect of the
structures.
!(
!(
!(
!(
!(
!(!(
!(
!(
!(
!(
!(
Basin 27
Basin 6
Basin 24
Basin 13
Basin 21
Basin 9
Basin 1
Basin 33
Basin 18
Madsen -Upstream
Basin 3
Basin 12
Hydraulic Model Domain & Boundary ConditionsUV169
UV169
CedarRiver
11 Dec 2018
0 300 600Feet
Scale: 1:5,357NAD 1983 HARNStatePlane WashingtonSouth FIPS 4602 Feet U
Madsen Creek
Model Domain
Figure 11
!(Internal Point-Inflow Boundary
Normal Depth Boundary
Stage Boundary
Basin # corresponds to sub-basin output of HSPF model
0.06
0.04
0.04
0.04
0.045
0.15
0.045
0.04
0.045
0.03
0.15
0.045
0.045
0.05
0.02
0.2
0.15
0.045
0.1
0.1
0.2
0.035
0.06
0.05
0.03
Existing Conditions Manning's n ValuesUV169
UV169
CedarRiver
11 Dec 2018
0 290 580
Feet
Scale: 1:5,115NAD 1983 HARNStatePlane WashingtonSouth FIPS 4602 Feet U
Madsen Creek
Figure 12
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 50
Boundary Conditions
Three external and twelve internal boundary condition nodes were coded into the model
domain. These are identified by the colored lines and dots in Figure 11. External boundaries
(double yellow and red dashed lines) are locations where water surface elevations within the
Cedar River had to be estimated for each event modeled on Madsen Creek. Water surface
elevations at the downstream end of the model domain were estimated automatically by the
model using normal depth methods. Water levels at the outlet of the high flow bypass and at
the outlet of the constructed King County habitat channel were estimated from stage
discharge curves generated from an existing hydraulic model of the Cedar River (explained
below). Internal boundaries (red dots) are locations where inflows are specified to the model
domain as predicted by the HSPF hydrologic model.
For each Madsen Creek model simulation, water surface elevations within the Cedar River had
to be input at the outlet of the high flow bypass and King County habitat channel. Stage
hydrographs were developed for both sites using an existing hydraulic model of the Cedar
River developed by WSE for King County’s Cedar River Interactive Mapping Project (CRIMP)
(WSE, 2013). For the February 16, 2017 validation model run, the stage hydrographs at these
locations represent the actual flow that occurred on the Cedar River on that day as estimated
from data collected at the two USGS Cedar River stations -- Landsburg (12117500) and Renton
(12119000). Similarly, the 2-year event that was modeled is based on a flood that occurred
on January 30, 2006; therefore, boundary conditions for the Cedar River are the actual
hydrographs that occurred on that day. The 25-year and 100-yr event hydrographs on Madsen
Creek are both scaled versions of the January 9, 1990 flood. Therefore, boundary conditions
on the Cedar River are represented by the actual January 9, 1990 Cedar River hydrograph.
The same set of hydrographs was used for both events.
Model Validation
Although limited data availability precluded full model calibration, WSE validated the model
with sensitivity testing, interviews with residents who observed flooding, flood photograph
and historical records, and other anecdotal information. The primary flood event used for
model validation occurred on February 16, 2017 and had a peak discharge measured at the
Madsen Creek stream gage of approximately 150 cfs, which corresponds to about an 8-year
event.
During this event, significant flooding occurred along 149th Avenue SE and on private parcels
adjacent to the road (Photos 40 and 41). Flood water overtopped the right bank berm of the
high flow bypass channel upstream from SR169, and flowed onto the church field and entered
Madsen Creek. Photo 42 shows grass and leaf debris left by the overtopping flow along the
bottom of a chain link fence that sits on top of the berm. The stream did not flood
Wonderland Estates (Photo 43).
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 51
Photo 40. Viewing south along 149th Avenue SE at the residence located at 15205 (February
16, 2017, City photograph).
Photo 41. Viewing east across the 149th Avenue SE ditch at the residence located at 15205
(February 16, 2017, City photograph).
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 52
Photo 42. Viewing northeast across the upper high flow bypass. The right bank berm
overtopped at the peak of the storm, leaving debris along the bottom of the fence (February
16, 2017, City photograph).
Photo 43. Viewing west along Madsen Creek at Wonderland Estates. Flow overtopped the
sandbags on the left bank, but significant flooding in Wonderland Estates was not reported
(February 16, 2017, City photograph).
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 53
The initial validation model run did not replicate the February 16, 2017 flood well. Computed
water levels were too low to overtop the right bank berm of the upper high flow bypass. This
resulted in flowrates along 149th Avenue SE which were too low to produce the flooding that
was observed. Further investigation revealed that the City removed sediment from the floor
of the bypass channel after the flood, which was prior to the survey that was completed for
this investigation; therefore, the capacity of the high flow bypass in the HEC-RAS model is
greater than it was at the time of the flood. To compensate for this added channel capacity,
WSE estimated the discharge that overtopped the berm based upon the height of the debris
left on the chain link fence and added this flow to Madsen Creek at the lower end of the
church field. After accounting for the overtopping of the high flow bypass berm, the existing
condition model successfully reproduced the pattern of observed downstream flooding along
and in the vicinity of 149th Avenue SE. The results are presented in Figure 13 which shows
maximum flow depth at the peak of the event.
Model Results
Existing Condition
The validated model was used to estimate hydraulic conditions within the project area for
existing conditions for three flood events -- the 2-, 25-, and 100-year annual instantaneous
peak floods. The results, presented in the form of maximum flow depth, are illustrated in
Figures 14, 15, 16.
General insights and observations revealed from the inundation maps are:
1. The sediment basin is able to pass the 100-year flood without overtopping the berm
that surrounds the basin assuming debris does not block any portion of the outlet.
There is, however, no freeboard on the berm during the 100-year flood.
2. The right bank berm of the high flow bypass channel upstream of SR169 currently does
not overtop during the 2-year event, but it does during the 25- and 100-year floods.
The overtopping flow enters the church field where it ponds and eventually drains to
Madsen Creek, passing through the culvert beneath the high flow bypass. Currently
the berm begins to overtop at an 8- to 10-year event, but overtopping will occur more
frequently over time if sediment is allowed to accumulate within the bypass. During
the 25- and 100-year events approximately 50 and 100 cfs overtop the berm
respectively, which causes flow rates in Madsen Creek to increase significantly. This
added flow is one of the principal causes of the flooding within Wonderland Estates
and along 149th Avenue SE.
3. Water overtops the banks at the entrance to the SR169 high flow bypass culvert and
the left bank immediately downstream during the 25-year and 100-year floods. This is
because the capacity of the high flow bypass has been reduced due to sediment
deposition in the SR169 culvert along with sediment deposition and vegetation in the
high flow bypass downstream from the culvert. Flows that overtop the left bank
upstream of the SR169 culvert increase flooding within Wonderland Estates, and those
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 54
that overtop the left bank downstream of the culvert, increase flooding within the
residential properties east of 149th Avenue SE.
4. The 25-year and 100-year floods overtop the left bank of Madsen Creek along
Wonderland Estates, flooding the north end of the mobile home park.
5. The 100-year flood overtops the left bank of the high flow bypass at the entrance to
the Madsen Creek SR169 culvert. This water flows through the front yard of the
private residential property east of Wonderland Estates, then through Wonderland
Estates, and into the housing development west of Wonderland.
6. The existing right bank berm along the section of Madsen Creek between SR169 and
149th Avenue SE overtops during the 25-year and 100-year events. It also overtopped
during the February 16, 2007 event (about an 8-year event). The overtopping water
flows north to flood several residential properties. In addition, water that leaves the
channel at this location is the first contributor to flooding along the 149th Ave SE
properties, as shown by the inundation map of the 2-year event. Water overtopping
the 149th Ave SE ditch seems to occur following the overtopping of the Creek and only
during events larger than the 2-year flood.
7. The culvert that carries Madsen Creek under 149th Avenue SE was generally free of
sediment and therefore, does not restrict flow. However, as will be described in the
next section, the channel in the park has filled with sediment which has reduced its
capacity.
8. Water ponds up along 149th Avenue SE because the existing culvert drain at the north
end of the ditch does not have sufficient capacity. In addition, because the culvert
empties into the high flow bypass just above its outlet to the Cedar River, the capacity
of the culvert will be reduced when water levels within the high flow bypass are high.
9. Flooding along Madsen Creek through the park is generally contained in the stream
corridor by existing berms and concrete eco-block walls. The only significant
exception is near the downstream end of the cricket fields where water leaves the
channel both to the west and east. The flow to the west enters a large undeveloped
natural wetland area while to the east it enters the backyard of a private residence.
Simulated Maximum Depths- 16 Feb 2017 Flood Event -
UV169
UV169
CedarRiver 14 Dec 2018
0 150 300
Feet
Scale: 1:2,000NAD 1983 HARN StatePlaneWashington South FIPS 4602Feet U
Depths (ft)
0 - 0.5
0.5 - 1
1 - 2
2 - 3
>3
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions
Figure 13
Simulated Maximum Depths- 2yr Flood Event -
UV169
UV169
CedarRiver 14 Dec 2018
0 150 300
Feet
Scale: 1:2,000NAD 1983 HARN StatePlaneWashington South FIPS 4602Feet U
Depths (ft)
0 - 0.5
0.5 - 1
1 - 2
2 - 3
>3
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions
Figure 14
Simulated Maximum Depths- 25yr Flood Event -
UV169
UV169
CedarRiver 14 Dec 2018
0 150 300
Feet
Scale: 1:2,000NAD 1983 HARN StatePlaneWashington South FIPS 4602Feet U
Depths (ft)
0 - 0.5
0.5 - 1
1 - 2
2 - 3
>3
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions
Figure 15
Simulated Maximum Depths- 100yr Flood Event -
UV169
UV169
CedarRiver 14 Dec 2018
0 150 300
Feet
Scale: 1:2,000NAD 1983 HARN StatePlaneWashington South FIPS 4602Feet U
Depths (ft)
0 - 0.5
0.5 - 1
1 - 2
2 - 3
>3
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions
Figure 16
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 59
Cedar River Flooding
Although Madsen Creek is the focus of this investigation, it is important to recognize that
even if Madsen Creek flooding is reduced, properties along 149th Ave SE will remain at risk
because they are in the Cedar River floodplain. Figures 17 and 18 show Cedar River flood
depth and inundation limit estimates for approximately the 10-year and 50-year annual
instantaneous peak floods, revealing that Cedar River flooding continues to pose a serious
threat to these properties. The data used to create these figures were obtained from a
hydraulic modeling project known as the CRIMP (Cedar River Interactive Mapping Project)
which was completed by WSE for King County in 2013 (WSE, 2013).
> 10-year Cedar RiverInnundation DepthsUV169
UV169
CedarRiver
12 Mar 2019
Figure 17
0 280 560
Feet
Scale: 1:5,000NAD 1983 HARNStatePlane WashingtonSouth FIPS 4602 Feet
U
Depth (ft)
0 - 0.5
0.5 - 1
1 - 2
2 - 3
>3
Note: This figure represents flooding that would occur during a King County Phase 4 flood alert. The discharge is slightly higher than a 10-year flood.
50-year Cedar RiverInnundation DepthsUV169
UV169
CedarRiver
12 Mar 2019
Figure 18
0 280 560
Feet
Scale: 1:5,000NAD 1983 HARNStatePlane WashingtonSouth FIPS 4602 Feet
U
Depth (ft)
0 - 0.5
0.5 - 1
1 - 2
2 - 3
>3
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 62
3.3. Sediment Transport and Deposition
Sediment deposition has reduced the capacity of portions of Madsen Creek and the high flow
bypass. To determine how sediment is moving through the system, where it has accumulated
and what type of sediment it is, WSE conducted:
1) a detailed field inspection that included collecting sediment samples throughout the
system;
2) estimating sediment deposition volumes within the high flow bypass and portions of Madsen
Creek by comparing channel cross sections and profiles surveyed for this study to the original
channel design drawings; and
3) evaluating the trap efficiency of the sediment basin.
These investigations provided an understanding of sediment transport and deposition
processes that are active within the system, an understanding that is required to develop
effective solutions. The results of the sediment investigation are summarized below.
3.3.1. Sedim ent Deposition Locatio ns
WSE identified where sediment has accumulated within the channel system, both through
field observations and data analyses. Figure 19 uses different colors to identify the typical
type of sediment that is found on the bed of Madsen Creek and the high flow bypass. In
general, the reaches highlighted in yellow have experienced significant sediment deposition.
These sediment deposits are discussed below. The figure also shows where sediment samples
were collected. Collected data is presented and discussed later in this report.
D
D
D D D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
DD
D
D
A1
B2 B3
B4 C1
C2
C3
F1
F2
F3
G1
G2
E1
E3
E2
E7
D1
Sediment Sample Locations& Bed Material Types
14 Dec 2018
0 190 380
Feet
Scale: 1:3,279NAD 1983 HARNStatePlane WashingtonNorth FIPS 4601 Feet
U
D SedimentSampleLocations
Bed Material Type
Silt
Fine Sand
Medium Sand (Fine Sand to Coarse Gravel)
Medium to Coarse Gravel
Coarse Gravel to Cobbles
Riprap
Figure 19
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 64
High Flow Bypass
Upper High Flow Bypass (upstream from SR169)
Figure 20 compares the longitudinal profile from the 1974 high flow bypass design plan set
(blue line) to the profile surveyed for this investigation (orange line). The comparison reveals
that there has been significant deposition from approximately station 1000 to station 2100,
while the remainder of the high flow bypass experienced minor levels of degradation.
Within the upper high flow bypass, deposition begins at approximately station 1000, which is
about 100 ft upstream of the change in slope. The 1974 profile shows that the channel along
the upstream 600 feet of the bypass was constructed at a slope of 0.025 (2.5%) while the next
400 feet of channel was built at a slope of 0.0028 (0.28%), nearly a ten-fold decrease. The
maximum deposition, equaling 20 inches, occurs near the point of the slope change (station
1125). Hence, the significant extent of deposition is primarily attributed to the flatter slopes
in the downstream reaches of the watershed.
In 2017 the City removed an unknown amount of sediment from the upper high flow bypass
(upstream of SR169); however, we do not know the exact location or the amount of material
that was removed. Visible excavation signs on the channel banks suggest that the pre-
excavation profile may have been something in the vicinity of the black dashed line in Figure
20. Sediment was also removed from the upper high flow bypass multiple times in the 1980s
and 1990s. Notes in Table 3 indicate that sediment was removed routinely between 1981 and
1990 and may have been removed between 1991 and 1997 and again in 2005. There is no
information about the exact location and quantity of sediment removal. The table does show
that 232 yd3 was removed from the bypass in 1981 and 20 yd3 in 2005. It also shows that
about 20% of the amount removed from the Sediment Basin was removed from the high flow
bypass each year from 1985 through 1990, but removal locations are not provided. The table
suggests that no sediment was removed from the bypass from 1998 through 2006 with the
exception of the 20 yd3 removed in 2005. The City took over maintenance of the sediment
basin and the upper high flow bypass in 2009, and according to City staff no sediment was
removed between 2009 and 2016. In summary, this information suggests that sediment was
not removed from the high flow bypass from 1998 through 2018, except in 2005 and 2017.
Figure 21 identifies locations along the upper high flow bypass and lower Madsen Creek where
the design cross section is compared to the 2018 surveyed cross section. The cross sections in
the upper high flow bypass are shown in Figure 22. The comparisons reveal that the steeper
upstream reach has not seen significant deposition, but rather channel incision within the
downstream one-half. The deepest incision, approximately 18 inches, is at cross section 963.
Within the flatter downstream reach, the changes caused by sediment deposition since 1974
are clearly visible in both the profile (Figure 20) and the cross-section comparisons. The
channel is narrower and shallower due to deposition on both the banks and bed. Sediment
was removed from the channel in 2017 prior to the 2018 survey, so these comparisons do not
capture the considerable sediment deposition that existed at that time.
Figure 20. Profile Comparison 1974 to 2018 high flow bypass.
Culvert Outlet to Cedar
SR169 Culvert Inlet
Top of Low Flow Culvert
Sediment Basin Outlet
90
95
100
105
110
115
120
500 750 1000 1250 1500 1750 2000 2250 2500 2750Elevation (ft, NAVD88)Distance Along Channel (ft)
High Flow Bypass Profile
1974 Design
2018 Survey
Estimated Channel Prior to Recent
Excavation
Slope = 0.025
Slope = 0.0028
Slope = 0.0036
1753
1928
248472189
2360
1391
963
1048
459
687
785
Sediment Deposition Comparison Locations 05 Dec 2018
0 175 350
Feet
Scale: 1:25,000NAD 1983 HARNStatePlane WashingtonSouth FIPS 4602 Feet U
TextText
Figure 21
Full Cross Section ComparisonsThalweg Comparison Points
110
109
111
112
113
Elevation (ft, NAVD88)10 20 30 40 50
Station (ft)
Cross-Section 785
104
103
105
106
107
Elevation (ft, NAVD88)10 20 30 40 50
Station (ft)
Cross-Section 1048
101
100
102
103
104
Elevation (ft, NAVD88)10 20 30 40 50
Station (ft)
Cross-Section 1391
105
104
106
107
108
Elevation (ft, NAVD88)10 20 30 40 50
Station (ft)
Cross-Section 963
1974 Design
Cross-Section
2018 Surveyed
Cross-Section
Fill
Cut
Upper High Flow Bypass Cross
Section Comparison (1974 vs. 2018)
Figure 22
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 68
SR169 Culvert
The floor of the SR169 high flow bypass culvert has filled with fine to medium sand. The
deposit is approximately 18 inches deep at the culvert entrance and 24 inches at the outlet.
Lower High Flow Bypass (downstream of SR169)
Within the lower high flow bypass, the channel has been impacted by sediment deposition
both on the channel bed and banks. As shown by the profile and cross section comparisons in
Figures 20 and 23, the most significant deposits are within the first 300 feet downstream of
the SR169 culvert. The floor of the channel has risen up to 20 inches near the culvert outlet
tapering to zero approximately 300 feet downstream. This deposit is an extension of the
sediment that has filled the SR169 culvert. As shown by the cross-section comparisons, the
channel has also narrowed significantly within the reach downstream of SR169 due to
deposition on the banks. In the downstream half of the lower high flow bypass, however,
there has been little to no deposition and up to six inches of incision at cross section 2360.
The pattern of sediment deposition within the channel suggests that vegetation has been
present within the channel during the most recent floods, because vegetation increases
roughness which increases sediment deposition. Vegetation management is critical within
this reach because sediment deposition therein, would also contribute to sediment depositing
within the SR169 culvert.
98
97
99
100
101
Elevation (ft, NAVD88)10 20 30 40 50
Station (ft)
Cross-Section 1753
96
95
97
98
99
Elevation (ft, NAVD88)10 20 30 40 50
Station (ft)
Cross-Section 2189
95
94
96
97
98
Elevation (ft, NAVD88)10 20 30 40 50
Station (ft)
Cross-Section 2360
97
96
98
99
100
Elevation (ft, NAVD88)10 20 30 40 50
Station (ft)
Cross-Section 1928
1974 Design
Cross-Section
2018 Surveyed
Cross-Section
Fill
Cut
Lower High Flow Bypass Cross
Section Comparison (1974 vs. 2018)
Figure 23
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 70
Madsen Creek Channel through Ron Regis Park
Figure 24 compares the 1989 longitudinal profile of Madsen Creek downstream of 149th Avenue
SE from the original design plan set (blue line) to the profile surveyed for this investigation in
2018 (orange line). The comparison reveals significant deposition along the entire length of
the constructed channel, with the stream bed profile rising an average of approximately 1.5
feet.
Changes in cross section area along this reach are shown in Figure 25, and cross section
locations are shown in Figure 21. Deposition has been substantial throughout the reach, and
the channel is now only about 25% of the size that it was when it was constructed in 1989.
This equates to approximately 1600 yd3 of deposited sediment in the Ron Regis Park reach of
the creek. To our knowledge, no sediment has been removed from the channel here since it
was constructed, with the exception of occasional removals from a short section of channel
immediately downstream from 149th Avenue SE, an area that is referred to as a “sediment
trap” on the 1989 plan set.
The reduction in channel cross section area is not surprising, because the channel was
constructed too large to self-maintain. According to commonly used regime principles (ASCE,
1996), channels flowing through unconsolidated alluvium will typically size themselves to
carry a dominate channel forming discharge. In the Pacific Northwest, the channel forming
discharge for alluvial streams like Madsen Creek is typically a 1.5- to 2-year annual
instantaneous peak flood. Based upon the hydrologic investigation conducted for this
investigation, a two-year event on Madsen Creek at the entrance to the sediment basin is
approximately 100 cfs; however, most of this flow never reaches the park channel because it
is diverted into the high flow bypass and transported directly to the Cedar River. During a 2-
year event, the hydrologic and hydraulic models predict that approximately 20 cfs will pass
through the 149th Avenue SE culvert and enter the park channel. Regime formulas predict
that a channel with a dominate discharge of 20 cfs and a channel slope of 0.0028 (0.28%) (the
design slope) will have a depth of approximately two feet and a top width of approximately
eight feet. Assuming near vertical banks, the cross-section area will be approximately 16 sq
ft. Based upon the 2018 survey, the channel currently has a cross section area of
approximately 15 sq ft, which is in line with what should be expected. To maintain the
channel cross section that was constructed in 1989 would require a dominate channel forming
discharge of approximately 200 cfs, about 10 times the size of the flow that actually reaches
the park channel.
Figure 24. Profile Comparison 1989 to 2018 Madsen Creek Channel within Ron Regis Park.
~ 50 ft downstream of 149th Ave
SE culvert
Upstream face of park entrance
road bridge
End of constructed channel
93
94
95
96
97
98
0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 1000Elevation (ft, NAVD88)Distance Along Channel (ft)
Madsen Creek Profile through Park
2018 Survey
1989 Design Channel
97
96
98
99
100
Elevation (ft, NAVD88)10 20 30 40 50
Station (ft)
Cross-Section 47
96
95
97
98
99
Elevation (ft, NAVD88)10 20 30 40 50
Station (ft)
Cross-Section 459
95
94
96
97
98
Elevation (ft, NAVD88)10 20 30 40 50
Station (ft)
Cross-Section 687
97
96
98
99
100
Elevation (ft, NAVD88)10 20 30 40 50
Station (ft)
Cross-Section 248
1989 Design
Cross-Section
2018 Surveyed
Cross-Section
Fill
Cut
Constructed Channel
·Top Width 30 ft
·Depth 4 ft
Natural Channel
·Top Width 8 ft
·Depth 2 ft
Park Channel Cross Section
Comparison (1989 vs. 2018)
Figure 25
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 73
Other Reaches and Features
Madsen Creek from Sediment Basin to High Flow Bypass Undercrossing
Significant sediment deposition was not observed along the reach of Madsen Creek that
extends from the sediment basin to where the stream turns west at SR169 (upstream of the
high flow bypass undercrossing). However, significant deposits of fine sand are present within
the reach of the stream that parallels SR169. This reach has a much flatter slope than the
upstream portion, which is the primary reason sediment has deposited.
Madsen Creek Culvert under High Flow Bypass
Fine sand has deposited on the floor of this 4’ X 6’ concrete box culvert. The sand is 15
inches and 20 inches deep at the entrance and exit respectively.
Madsen Creek Channel between Culvert under High Flow Bypass and SR169
No significant deposition was observed within this reach.
Madsen Creek SR169 Culvert
Fine sand has deposited on the floor of this 3’ X 6’ concrete box culvert. The sand is 0 inches
and 15 inches deep at the entrance and exit respectively.
Madsen Creek between SR 169 Culvert to 149th Avenue SE
The channel bed is covered with fine sand and silt.
149th Avenue SE Culvert
Fine sand has deposited on the floor of this 2’ X 8’ aluminum arch-type culvert (due to unique
shape of the culvert the dimensions are approximate). The sand is 4 inches and 8 inches deep
at the entrance and exit respectively.
149th Avenue SE Ditch
The ditch along 149th Avenue SE appeared to be relatively clean and free of sediment. The
only exception is that fine sand and silt have partially filled the two 18” culverts that connect
the ditch in series to the High Flow Bypass Channel.
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 74
3.3.2. Sediment Gr ainsize Cha racteristics
To identify the characteristics of the sediments that are depositing, WSE collected sediment
samples at 16 locations throughout the system (Figure 19). A Wolman Pebble Count was also
performed to determine the grainsize distribution for sample A1 which is located in the
natural channel upstream from the sediment basin. Grainsize distributions were determined
by laboratory sieve analyses of bulk samples collected at the other 15 locations. At three of
these sites an additional hydrometer test was performed because the samples contained a
large amount of silt.
The grainsize distribution curves for all 16 samples are presented in Figures 26, 27, and 28.
Figure 26 shows the curves within the sediment basin and the natural channel upstream.
Figure 27 shows curves for the high flow bypass and Figure 28 includes those for Madsen Creek
downstream from the sediment basin. The D50 size of each sample and the material
classification based upon the Unified Soil Classification System (USCS) are presented in Table
6. Conclusions about the sediment characteristics within each reach, drawn from the
grainsize distributions, are revealed on the following pages.
Table 6. Sediment Sample Data.
Sediment
Sample No. D50 (mm) Classification1 Location of Sample
A1 50 coarse gravel Channel Bed
B2 10 fine gravel Upstream end of basin
B3 0.4 fine to medium sand Middle of basin
B4 0.1 fine sand and silt Downstream end of basin
F1 0.12 fine sand and silt Channel Bank
F2 0.085 fine sand and silt Channel Bank
F3 0.25 fine to medium sand Floor SR169 Culvert
G2 0.055 Silt Channel Bed
C1 17 fine to coarse gravel Channel Bed
C2 13 fine gravel Channel Bed
C3 0.35 fine sand Channel Bed
D1 0.25 fine sand Channel Bed
E1 0.35 fine sand Channel Bed
E2 0.045 Silt Floodplain Bench
E3 0.35 fine sand Channel Bed
E7 0.35 fine sand Channel Bed
1 Unified Soil Classification System (USCS)
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
0.0001 0.001 0.01 0.1 1 10 100 1000Percent Finer, %Grain Size (mm)
Madsen Creek
Grainsize Distribution Curves
Upstream Channel and Sediment Basin
A1 Channel Bed Upstream from Sediment
Basin Wollman Pebble Count
B2 Sed Basin Delta
B3 Mid Sed Basin
B4 Sed Basin Lower
Figure 26
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
0.000 0.001 0.010 0.100 1.000 10.000 100.000Percent Finer, %Grain Size (mm)
F1 Upper High Flow Bypass
Bank
F2 Upper High Flow Bypass
Bank
F3 Inside SR-169 High Flow
Bypass Culvert
G2 Lower High Flow Bypass
Bed
Madsen Creek
Grainsize Distribution Curves High Flow Bypass
1000.000
Figure 27
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
0.000 0.001 0.010 0.100 1.000 10.000 100.000 1000.000Percent Finer, %Grain Size (mm)
Madsen Creek
Grainsize Distribution Curves
Madsen Creek Channel Downstream from Sediment Basin
C1 Madsen Creek Bed
C2 Madsen Creek Bed
C3 Madsen Creek Bed
D1 Madsen Creek Bed
E1 Madsen Creek Sediment Trap
E2 Madsen Creek Bank
E3 Madsen Creek Bed
E7 Madsen Creek Bed
Figure 25
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 78
Sediment Basin and Channel Upstream
As documented by the grainsize distribution curves shown in Figure 26, the bed of the natural
channel upstream from the sediment basin is comprised of sand, gravel, and cobble. Within
the sediment basin grainsize decreases from upstream to downstream. Near the inlet, the
material is a mixture of sand, gravel, and small cobbles. The grain size decreases to fine to
medium sand near the middle of the basin, and fine sand and silt near the outlet. The basin
is performing well, capturing nearly all coarse bedload material and a significant percentage
of fine sand and even some silt. That said, the sediment deposition documented in both the
high flow bypass and Madsen Creek reveal that some sand and silt pass through the basin. The
performance of the sediment basin is discussed in the next section.
High Flow Bypass
Figure 27 shows four grainsize distribution curves for deposit samples collected within the
high flow bypass. Samples F1 and F2, which were taken from the banks of the channel, are
located in the upper high flow bypass (Figure 19), F3 is from the floor of the SR169 Culvert
and G2 is from the bed of the high flow bypass near the Cedar River. Curves F1 and F2 reveal
that fine sand and silt have deposited on the banks of the high flow bypass. Sample F3
reveals that the sediment that has filled the bottom of the SR169 culvert is fine to medium
sand. This is the same material that has deposited on the bed within the first 300 feet of the
high flow bypass channel immediately downstream from SR169. It is likely that these deposits
are in-part due to slow velocities caused by tall and dense vegetation in the channel. It is our
understanding that the County usually mows the vegetation each year in January, which
means that thick vegetation is present in the channel in November and December, the first
two months of the flood season. As previously stated, it is important to mow the lower high
flow bypass before the flood season to decrease both the probability of flooding and the
potential for sediment deposition. Relatively little sediment has deposited within the
downstream half of the lower high flow bypass. The material present in the latter reach is
silt.
Madsen Creek Channel
Figure 28 shows eight grainsize distribution curves for deposit samples collected within
Madsen Creek downstream of the sediment basin. Samples C1, C2, and C3 are in the channel
upstream of the high flow bypass; sample D1 is in the short section of channel between SR169
and 149th Avenue SE; and, samples E1, E2, E3, and E7 are within the channel in the park.
Within the reach that passes through the church property, the bed material decreases in size
from gravel in the upper reach, to medium/coarse sand in the middle, to fine sand at the
culvert under the high flow bypass. This decrease in size is directly related to a decrease in
the channel slope which occurs along the reach. Within the reach downstream of SR169, the
bed and bank materials are fine sand and slit respectively.
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 79
Channel Velocities and Sediment Deposition
The type of sediment that deposits within each sub-reach is directly correlated to flow
velocity. Figures 29, 30, and 31 show maximum simulated velocities under existing conditions
for the 2-, 25-, and 100-year events. Table 7 lists these velocities and compares them to the
velocity that is required to move the average particle size found on the bed of the different
sub-reaches (commonly referred to as incipient motion velocity).
Table 7. Channel and Incipient Velocities for Stream Sediments by Sub-Reach.
Sub-Reach Dominate Bed
Material Type
Average Channel
Velocity During 2-
to 100-year Flood
(fps)
Incipient Motion
Velocity (fps)1
Upstream Sediment Basin Coarse Gravel
(D50 = 50mm) 5 to 8 7
Sediment Basin
Full Range Cobble
to Silt
(D50 = 0.1 to 10mm)
1 to 3 2 to 4
Upper High Flow Bypass
Riprap (upper half)
Sand (Lower Half)
(no sediment
sample from bed)
6 to 8
4 to 5
N/A (Sediment size
on bed unknown)
Lower High Flow Bypass
(just downstream from
SR169)2
Fine Sand (same
material in SR169
culvert)
(D50 = 0.25 mm)
2 to 3 2
North-South portion of
Madsen Creek along Church
Property
Coarse Gravel to
Medium Sand
(D50 = 13 to 17mm)
3 to 5 4 to 5
Madsen Creek Parallel to
SR169
Fine Sand
(D50 = 0.35mm) 0.5 to 2 2.5
Madsen Creek within Park Fine Sand
(D50 = 0.35mm) 1 to 2 2.5
1Incipient motion velocity for each material type obtained from USACE, 1994 assuming flow depth < 5 ft.
2Assumes channel vegetation has not been mowed/maintained.
Simulated Maximum Velocities- 2yr Flood Event -
UV169
UV169
CedarRiver
06 Dec 2018
0 150 300
Feet
Scale: 1:2,000NAD 1983 HARN StatePlaneWashington South FIPS 4602Feet U
Velocities (ft/s)
0 - 0.5
0.5 - 2
2 - 3
3 - 5
5 - 10
> 10
Madsen CreekExisting Conditions
Figure 29
Simulated Maximum Velocities- 25yr Flood Event -
UV169
UV169
CedarRiver
06 Dec 2018
0 150 300
Feet
Scale: 1:2,000NAD 1983 HARN StatePlaneWashington South FIPS 4602Feet U
Velocities (ft/s)
0 - 0.5
0.5 - 2
2 - 3
3 - 5
5 - 10
> 10
Madsen CreekExisting Conditions
Figure 30
Simulated Maximum Velocities- 100yr Flood Event -
UV169
UV169
CedarRiver 06 Dec 2018
0 150 300
Feet
Scale: 1:2,000NAD 1983 HARN StatePlaneWashington South FIPS 4602Feet U
Velocities (ft/s)
0 - 0.5
0.5 - 2
2 - 3
3 - 5
5 - 10
> 10
Madsen CreekExisting Conditions
Figure 31
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 83
Noteworthy take-aways from the table are:
1. Velocities within the sediment basin are low enough to capture the full range of
sediments transported by Madsen Creek. However, as will be described in the next
section, approximately 50% of the suspended sediment load that enters the basin
passes through the basin.
2. Once Madsen Creek turns left (west) to parallel SR169, average velocities for all three
events fall to less than 2 fps. This continues downstream through the park. This is
lower than the incipient motion velocity required to move fine sand which is why
these reaches have experienced significant deposition.
3. Velocities within the upper high flow bypass slow downstream at mid-reach where the
slope flattens, however, velocities tend to remain relatively high. A bed material
sample was not be collected within the lower half of this reach because most of the
material had been removed in 2017 when the City cleaned the channel.
4. Velocities within the lower high flow bypass slow significantly if vegetation is not
mowed or maintained. This is likely the reason fine sand has deposited within the
SR169 culvert and the first 300 feet of the channel.
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 84
3.3.3 . Sedimen t Basin Performance and Basin Sediment Yield
It would be useful to know how much sediment is delivered to the sediment basin and project
reach each year. The most reliable estimates are those generated from actual sediment data
of which we have two data sets from within the project reach: 1) the volume of sediment
that has been removed from the sediment basin annually and 2) the amount of sediment that
has deposited within the reach of Madsen Creek that was constructed within Ron Regis Park.
The volume of deposited sediment that is removed from the basin can be used to create a
rating curve which relates stream discharge to volume of sediment deposited within the
basin, assuming the original basin topography was restored with each cleaning. The
relationship between flow and sediment deposition can be described as: , where
is the rate of sediment deposition, is the discharge entering the basin, and a and b are
fitting coefficients. Through a series of statistical analyses which compared 15 minute flow
data to the total volume of sediment removed from the basin each water year, WSE found
that the discharge to sediment deposition relationship is best described when a = 0.00004 and
b = 2.66, where is cubic yards of sediment deposited over a 15-minute period and is
the average flow rate into the basin in cubic feet per second as observed at 15-minute
intervals at the King County stream gage located at the entrance to the basin. The rating
curve represented by this formula is illustrated in Figure 32.
Figure 32. Rate of Sediment Deposition in Sediment Basin for a Given Inflow.
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 85
While the above relationship provides an estimate of the rate of sediment deposition in the
basin for a given flow rate, it does not provide an estimate of the volume of sediment that
passes through the basin.
Sediment leaving the basin will either enter the high flow bypass where most of it will be
conveyed to the Cedar River, or to Madsen Creek where nearly all of it will deposit along the
flatter slopes of the channel because velocities slow and the stream has been diverted into a
series of ponds and no longer connects directly to the Cedar River. If we assume that the
volume of sediment leaving the basin via the high flow bypass and Madsen Creek is directly
proportional to the discharge that each route carries, then Figure 33 can be used to compute
these volumes. The figure shows the percentage of the total flow leaving the sediment basin
through the high flow bypass, as calculated by the project HEC-RAS model. The figure
includes two curves, one that assumes the entrance to the culvert that discharges to Madsen
Creek is completely open (bottom curve), and another that represents the current condition
in which the entrance is partially covered by metal plates. This pair of curves suggest that
during the large events (greater than about a 2-year (100 cfs)) the high flow bypass has
carried 60% to 90% of the total flow leaving the basin.
Figure 33. Fraction of Flow Exiting Sediment Basin through the High Flow Bypass. (Two
conditions presented – one with the Madsen Creek culvert entrance partially blocked by metal
plates and the other with it fully open.)
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 86
To estimate the trap efficiency of the current sediment basin, we need to make an estimate
of the quantity of sediment that has passed through the basin since it was built in 1991.
Although sediment data is limited, we know that approximately 1600 yd3 of sediment has
deposited within the 1000-ft long section of Madsen Creek that was constructed through Ron
Regis Park since 1989. This alone does not tell us how much sediment passed through the
Madsen Creek culvert at the outlet of the sediment basin, but if we make several, albeit
broad assumptions, we can estimate the amount. Reports from residents and historical
photographs indicate that a significant amount of sediment was delivered to and deposited
within the constructed park channel during the 1990 flood when the sediment basin berm was
breached and failed. The basin was rebuilt following that event, so the current basin
configuration has existed since 1991, therefore, we need to reduce the 1600 cubic yard
estimate by the amount that was deposited by the 1990 flood. We don’t know how much
sediment deposited in the park channel during the event, but we do know it was large enough
that King County considered removing it (based upon King County maintenance notes
reviewed for this investigation). We know that it did not fill the channel and we also know,
based upon eye witness accounts, that most of the sediment from the event deposited within
Wonderland Estates and other properties upstream from SR169. Therefore, based upon the
anecdotal information, it may be reasonable to assume that no more than a third of the 1600
yd3 of sediment was delivered during the 1990 flood. If true, then roughly 1100 yd3 has
deposited since 1991. This estimate is only a portion of the total load that has moved
through and deposited in Madsen Creek downstream from the sediment basin; and we need to
know the total load in-order to estimate trap efficiency. Unfortunately, due to a lack of data
we can only make broad assumptions to arrive at this estimate. Based upon field
observations, we know that a significant amount of sediment has deposited on the floodplain
adjacent to the Madsen Creek within Ron Regis Park, within the channel and on the floodplain
in the large wetland downstream from the park, along the relatively flat section of Madsen
Creek between the park and the point that the stream first encounters SR169 upstream from
the high flow bypass, and on the floodplain between SR169 and the sediment basin; however,
due to the steeper channel slope in this reach, the quantities are less than along the flatter
reaches downstream. In addition, in the early 1990s the channel maintained a direct
connection to the Cedar River so some sediment passed through Madsen Creek to the river.
The channel no longer connects directly to the Cedar River, but instead has been diverted
into a relatively large pond adjacent to the river. The total length of these reaches is
approximately four times that of the constructed channel. If, we use this channel length
ratio to assume that the total amount of sediment delivered to and deposited within Madsen
Creek downstream from the sediment basin is 3 to 5 times the 1100 yd3 that we have assumed
has accumulated in the park channel between 1991 to 2017, then the total sediment
delivered to Madsen Creek would be in the range of 3,000 to 6,000 yd3 (see Table 8). If,
based upon Figure 33 above, we assume that during this time an average of 80% of the flow
exited the sediment basin through the high flow bypass, then one also can assume that 80% of
the sediment exited through it too. This suggests that four times as much sediment has been
transported through the high flow bypass as compared to Madsen Creek. Multiplying the
Madsen Creek sediment deposition volume estimate by four, suggests that the amount of
sediment transported by the high flow bypass since 1991 may be in the range of 12,000 to
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 87
24,000 yd3. This combined with the Madsen Creek volume, provides a very rough range
suggesting that 15,000 to 30,000 yd3 of sediment may have passed through the basin since
1991, most of it finding its way to the Cedar River via the high flow bypass.
To estimate trap efficiency, we need to compare the estimate above to the quantity of
sediment that actually deposited in the sediment basin between 1991 and 2017. Sediment
basin cleaning removal records in Table 8 indicate that approximately 12,500 yd3 of material
was removed from the basin between 1991 and 2006. Removal records are not available for
the period 2007 to 2017 except for 2009, but they can be estimated using 15-minute flow data
from the King County gage and the sediment basin deposition rating curve in Figure 32. This
method suggests that approximately 9000 yd3 deposited between 2007 and 2017 for a total
deposition within the basin of 21,500 yd3 between 1991 and 2017. Comparing this value to
the 15,000 to 30,000 yd3 that we have estimated passed through the basin, suggests that the
basin is capturing 40% to 60% of the total volume of sediment that is transported to the
project reach. The sediment basin removal records indicate that on average approximately
800 yd3 of sediment accumulates within the basin each year. If the basin captures 50% of the
sediment load, then approximately 800 yd3 passes through. Under the current sediment basin
outlet configuration which in which metal plates block 75% of the entrance to the Madsen
Creek culvert, approximately 90% (720 yd3) currently leaves the basin through the high flow
bypass and 10% (80 yd3) through Madsen Creek.
Table 8. – Sediment Basin Capture Efficiency Calculations Based on Known or Estimated
Sediment Volumes Deposition between 1991 and 2017.
Location of Sediment Volume of Sediment (yd3) Assumption/Calculation
Madsen Creek Channel
downstream from Sediment
Basin
3,000-6,000
(years 1991 to 2017)
Very rough estimate based on known
deposition in Ron Regis Park
combined with field observations
along stream
Sediment Passing through the
sediment basin 15,000-30,000
Based upon assumption that 80% of
sediment passes through High Flow
Bypass and 20% through Madsen
Creek
Deposition in Basin (1991-2006) 12,500 Recorded by King County (Table 3)
Deposition in Basin (2007-2017) 9,000 Estimate based on flow record and
sediment rating curve (Figure 32)
Total Sediment Captured by
Basin
21,500 Period 1991 to 2017
Sediment Basin Capture
Efficiency 40% - 60% Total Captured Sediment / (Total
Captured Sediment + Total Passing
Sediment)
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 88
Figure 34 shows a conceptual layout of sediment distribution within and leaving the basin.
Based upon the rational described above, of the sediment that enters the basin,
approximately 50% is captured and 50% passes through. Of the 50% portion passing through,
currently about 45% leaves via the high flow bypass and 5% through Madsen Creek. Based
upon the sediment samples collected for this investigation, the basin captures nearly all
particles larger than medium sand, and a significant portion of the fine sand and silt. The
material that leaves the basin is primarily fine sand and silt transported as suspended load.
Trap efficiency in the range of 50% is relatively good for sediment basins of this type,
therefore, it is our opinion that it was well designed and is serving its intended purpose.
Figure 34. Approximate Distribution of Sediment Delivered to and Existing the Sediment Basin.
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 89
4. P OTENTIAL S OLUTI ONS
Based upon our understanding of the hydrologic, hydraulic, and sediment transport
characteristics of Madsen Creek gained through this existing condition assessment, the
following solutions are suggested. The proposed solutions are grouped into two categories: 1)
recurring maintenance activities, and 2) one-time capital improvement projects. Within each
category the solutions are listed in the order of relative importance as viewed by the
consultant team:
Recurring Maintenance Projects:
3. Restore the capacity of the high flow bypass and the SR169 culvert by removing
accumulated sediment and developing an effective sediment removal and annual
vegetation maintenance program.
4. Monitor sediment accumulations within the three culverts listed below. Remove the
sediment if it starts to limit the capacity of the culvert to the point flooding upstream
worsens. This may require removing sediment from the channel downstream from the
culvert to prevent the culvert from rapidly refilling with sediment.
a. Madsen Creek culvert under high flow bypass
b. Madsen Creek SR169 culvert
c. Madsen Creek 149th Avenue SE culvert
It is recommended that the City, County, and WSDOT work together to develop a
memorandum of understanding that specifies the entity responsible for each maintenance
activity identified in this study and the frequency and timing of that maintenance.
One-Time Improvement Projects:
11. Raise the right bank berm along the upper high flow bypass.
12. Continue to limit the amount of flow that enters Madsen Creek by either retaining the
existing plates or installing a slide gate on the entrance to the Madsen Creek culvert at
the outlet of the sediment basin.
13. Raise the right bank berm along the section of channel between SR169 and 149th
Avenue SE.
14. Raise the height of the ground that separates Madsen Creek from Wonderland Estates.
15. Raise the berm that surrounds the sediment pond and add a rock-lined emergency
spillway that discharges to the high flow bypass.
16. Increase culvert capacity at the downstream end of the ditch along 149th Avenue SE
either by improving the existing culvert outlet system, or preferably installing a
second culvert outlet that drains to the Cedar River and not the high flow bypass.
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 90
Also, consider enlarging the ditch.
17. Raise the ground height surrounding the entrance to the SR169 high flow bypass
culvert to provide freeboard during the 100-year flood if the entrance to the culvert
becomes partially blocked by woody debris.
18. Raise the right bank berm of Madsen Creek where it overtops near the downstream
end of the park channel.
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 91
5. C ONCLUSION S
The existing condition assessment described here in has identified the significant factors that
are responsible for the flood and sediment problems that are currently impacting lower
Madsen Creek. It has also revealed that there appear to be feasible solutions that can be
implemented with relative ease, solutions that consist of a series of one-time construction
activities and a renewed commitment to a multi-jurisdictional updated and improved
maintenance program.
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 92
6. R EFERENCES
ASCE, 1996. “Channel Stability Assessment for Flood Control Projects.” Technical Engineering
and Design Guides as adapted from the US Army Corps of Engineers, No. 20. Published by
ASCE Press 345 East 47th Street New York, New York.
Barghausen, 2009. “New Life Church”. Proposed site development plan set showing modified
stormwater drainage plan and detention pond. Barghausen Consulting Engineers, Inc. Kent,
WA. Sheets R-348301 to R-348316. Plans are NOT identified as “As-Built”. Plan set contains
multiple dates all between 2008 to 2009.
City of Renton, 1997. “Plan Set Cedar River Regional Park, Madsen Creek Bridge.” City of
Renton Department of Parks and Recreation. Sheets 81 to 84. Plans are NOT identified as
“As-Built”. Plan set is dated September 16, 1997.
Dinicola, R.S. 1990. Characterization and Simulation of Rainfall-Runoff Relations for
Headwater Basins in Western King and Snohomish Counties, Washington. Water-Resources
Investigation Report 89-4052. U.S. Geological Survey, Tacoma, WA.
Dinicola, R.S. 2001. Validation of a Numerical Modeling Method for Simulating Rainfall-Runoff
Relations for Headwater Basins in Western King and Snohomish Counties, Washington. U.S.
Geological Survey, USGS Water Supply Paper No. 2495. Prepared in Cooperation with the King
County Department of Public Works, and Department of Planning and Community
Development. USGS, Tacoma, WA.
King County, 1974. “Plan Set Madsen Creek Settling Basin and Channel Relocation”. King
County Dept. Of Public Works, Division of Hydraulics. Three sheets numbered consecutively
from F-67-1 to F-67-3. Plans are NOT identified as “As-built”.
King County, 1989. “As-Built Plan Set, October 2, 1989. Madsen Creek Channel Improvements
Near 149th. Ave S.E. & Maple Valley Highway – (SR169)”. King County Dept. Of Public Works,
Paul Tanaka Deputy Director, Surface Water Management Division. Seven sheets numbered
consecutively from 2000-60 to 2000-60F.
King County, 1995. “Plan Sheet Madsen Creek Sediment Pond” improvements. King County
Dept. of Public Works, Survey & Mapping. Single plan sheet identified as 1 of 14. Dated
February 1995.
King County, 1998. “Madsen Creek Sediment Pond Fish Ladder” plan set. King County Surface
Water Management. Plan Set dated March 31, 1998. Three sheets numbered 1 to 3, plus a
fourth unnumbered log notched detail sketch.
King County, 2002. “149 Avenue SE Concrete Cutoff Wall”. Design plan for concrete weir
structure to limit flow into ditch along east side of 149th Avenue SE. King County Water and
Land Resources Division, Stormwater Service Section. Dated August 20, 2002.
March 2019
Madsen Creek Existing Conditions 93
Kolcsey, Stephen, J., 1990. “Catastrophic Flood January 9, 1990 to Mobile Home Wonderland
& The Kolcsey Residence from the 16-year Old King County Madsen Creek Drainage System.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), 2016, “HEC-RAS River Analysis System 2D Modeling
User’s Manual”.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), 1994, “Stability of Flood Control Channels. EM1110-2-
1418”.
WADNR (2018), Washington Department of Natural Resources online LiDAR portal,
https://www.dnr.wa.gov/lidar, accessed July 2018.
WSDOT, 1993. “SR169 196th Avenue S.E. / Jones Road to Maplewood” SR 169 highway
widening project. Plan sheets 91,103, 247 of 333. Plans stamped “for “As Constructed Plans”
Only. Multiple dates appear on the plan set all between July and August 1993.
WSE (2013), “Cedar River Interactive Mapping Project Model and Mapping Development”,
Watershed Science and Engineering, technical memorandum to King County, 21 August 2013.