Thurston County property owners have incurred hefty fines for unpermitted shoreline development along the Deschutes River. The Washington Department of Ecology has slapped Chuck and Austin Rogers with a $204,000 penalty for their actions near Yelm. The duo was found guilty of building structures, placing fill, and clearing and grading the river’s banks without any permits.
According to the Washington Department of Ecology, the Rogers’ owned properties feature approximately 1,700 feet of river shoreline where they chose to continually expand unlawful development. These areas are sensitive and protected to maintain the river’s ecosystem, particularly as the county’s shoreline master program puts them in a “conservancy environment.” Yet, the property owners have added unauthorized structures and debris used to support a recreational vehicle park and a commercial hauling business.
The Rogers’ activity has compromised the environment alongside the Deschutes River, a fact underscored by Bobbak Talebi, Ecology’s Southwest Region director. Talebi indicated to the Department of Ecology, “Ecology and Thurston County have taken every step to make sure the Rogers understood why their actions are not allowed and what options they have to address the issues.” Despite ongoing dialogue and clear communication, the Rogers continued their expansion…