Whatcom County Shoreline Master Program and Critical Areas Update

Washington

Whatcom County is preparing an update of their Shoreline Master Program (SMP) in compliance with new state guidelines. As one of five "early adopters," the County is in the forefront of integrating analysis and characterization of the their shoreline resources, public involvement, and policy and regulatory development. With substantial freshwater and marine shoreline, Whatcom County will set a precedent for the level of analysis and detail required of other counties under the new guidelines. ESA Adolfson is assisting Whatcom County in the preparation of this SMP update with an emphasis on the inventory and analysis of ecological and built environment conditions; development of shoreline policies, environmental designations, regulations, and a restoration plan; and coordination with critical areas policies and regulations.

Whatcom County is also updating their critical areas regulations in compliance with GMA requirements to be informed by the "best available science." ESA Adolfson is assisting the County in this effort with a particular focus on freshwater wetlands. A literature review and recommendations for designations and protection are being prepared.