Letter to the Editor: Now is the Time to Let Council Hear from You on Shoreline Protection

— from Rein Attemann, Puget Sound Advocacy Manager, Washington Environmental Council —

Shorelines define the uniqueness of the San Juan Islands – from the rocky shores of Lime Kiln State Park to the beaches of Spencer’s Spit on Lopez Island.

And in San Juan County, there are more shorelines than any county in the continental US – more than 408 linear miles and over 400 islands. The health and function of these shorelines are tied directly to the health of Puget Sound and all the amazing creatures living here – from Orcas to Chinook salmon to the eelgrass and to forage fish. San Juan County is in the process of updating important safeguards for its shorelines and needs public input and support now.

Please join me and other community members to show your support for a strong Shoreline Master Program (SMP) for San Juan County’s 400 miles of shoreline. Your attendance at the upcoming public hearing is very important.

When: Monday, November 30th at 9:15 a.m.
Where: County Council Chambers, 55 Second Street, Friday Harbor
What: San Juan County Council public hearing on the draft San Juan County SMP.
Who: Join neighbors and community members to stand for strong environmental safeguards for our shorelines. We will wear stickers showing our support.

If you are unable to attend the Monday hearing, please use this link to provide a comment to the County Council.

Why A Strong SMP is Important
Shoreline ecosystems are diverse, dynamic, fragile and sensitive areas that serve as the nursery for many of our Puget Sound aquatic species. They also provide key protections for public health, safety, and the welfare of our community. The SMP lays out the type of access allowed, the areas that are protected, and the areas that can be developed, as well as how this development can occur. A strong SMP is a key part of our collective efforts to help restore Puget Sound, and our connections to the special places we hold dear.

I hope to see you at the November 30 public hearing! Please don’t forget to submit your comments before November 30.