USA: DOE Seeks Input on Ridgefield Shoreline Program

The Washington Department of Ecology seeks public comment on the city of Ridgefield’s new shoreline master program.

The shoreline master program will guide construction and development on the city’s shorelines along portions of Lake River and Gee Creek. It combines local plans for future development and preservation with updated development ordinances and related permitting requirements.

Upon Ecology’s approval, the locally tailored shoreline master program will help minimize environmental damage to shoreline areas, reserve appropriate areas for water-oriented uses, and protect the public’s right to public lands and waters.

Under Washington’s 1972 voter-approved Shoreline Management Act, a proposed shoreline program needs Ecology’s review and approval before it takes effect. About 200 towns, cities and counties statewide are in the process of, or soon will, be updating their master programs during the next few years.

Ecology will accept public comment on the Ridgefield shoreline master program through Sept. 17, 2012.

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Dredging Today Staff, August 17, 2012