Ecology invites comment on Skagit County comprehensive update and review of Shoreline Master Program
Public comments will aid in decision to approve program or ask for changes
OLYMPIA — The Washington Department of Ecology is seeking public input on a combined Shoreline Master Program update for Skagit County and the towns of Hamilton and Lyman.
The county and the towns formed a coalition in 2010 to combine their efforts to maximize efficiency and take advantage of their proximity and similar development issues.
These jurisdictions have worked together, with Skagit County taking the lead, to develop a shared shoreline plan that will be implemented consistently across all three jurisdictions, and all three have recently adopted drafts for Ecology to review, as required by state law.
The towns of Hamilton and Lyman are located along the Skagit River. The proposed amendments to the Skagit County shoreline plan would represent a significant overhaul of the existing plan, which hasn’t been comprehensively updated since the late 1970s. The new shoreline plan would regulate use and development along 598 miles of streams and rivers, 53 lakes and reservoirs, 228 miles of marine shoreline, and all wetland areas associated with these waterbodies.
“The proposed shoreline plan entirely replaces the existing Skagit County shoreline master program that was adopted in 1976,” said Chad Yunge, a senior shoreline planner with Ecology. “This includes new goals, policies, and regulations to encourage and manage appropriate shoreline uses, public access, and protection and restoration of both marine and freshwater shoreline resources.”
Provide input
Ecology is accepting public comments on this update from April 3 through 5 p.m. May 18, 2023.
Submit comments online, by mail, or at a public hearing.
Mail to: Chad Yunge, Washington Department of Ecology, Northwest Region – Bellingham Field Office, 913 Squalicum Way #101, Bellingham, WA 98225