The Washington State Department of Ecology has initiated a two-year collaborative process to explore the potential for developing geothermal energy across the state. This effort, prompted by Senate Bill 6039 passed in spring 2024, mandates evaluation of both opportunities and risks associated with geothermal energy development in specific areas including near Mount St. Helens, Mount Baker, and the Wind River Valley south of Mount St. Helens. It involves coordination with multiple agencies, Tribes, industry, and community stakeholders. Interim findings are due by June 30, 2026, with a final report expected by June 30, 2027. Ecologies of Archaeology and Historic Preservation, Commerce, Fish and Wildlife, and Natural Resources are all involved in the process too.

As part of this statewide effort, Ecology is facilitating a series of in-person community workshops to gather local input, share information, and address concerns. Workshops are scheduled for:

  • Mount Baker area – Thursday, February 26, 2026, 5:30–7:30 p.m.
  • Mount St. Helens area – Wednesday, March 4, 2026, 5:30–7:30 p.m.
  • Wind River Valley area – Thursday, March 5, 2026, 5:30–7:30 p.m.

In addition to these regional workshops, a virtual statewide event will take place Tuesday, March 17, 2026, from 1:30–3:30 p.m. Ecology will provide light food and drinks at the in-person sessions, and Spanish-language interpretation will be available.

No geothermal projects are currently proposed in Washington—but the workshops offer important opportunities for early engagement with state policymakers and planners. The process is designed to incorporate feedback from across local governments, Tribes, and residents to help guide the consideration of potential geothermal developments. Interim and final recommendations will be submitted to the governor and legislature.

Why this matters: Cowlitz County sits within the southwest Washington region that includes Mount St. Helens and the Wind River Valley—areas under active consideration for geothermal resource development. These workshops offer our communities direct access to state decision-makers and specialized agencies, inviting input on environmental, cultural, and economic factors that may shape future energy projects. Ecology’s initiative aligns with broader efforts to expand Washington’s clean energy portfolio, though—critically—it advances only as far as community and Tribal acceptance, environmental safeguards, and detailed study allow.

Residents interested in participating are encouraged to attend the Mount St. Helens workshop on March 4 or the online session on March 17, or to sign up for future updates via Ecology’s Clean Energy Coordination email list.

Sources
Washington Department of Ecology: Geothermal energy collaborative process
Washington Department of Ecology blog: Community workshops focus on geothermal energy in Washington