Critical Areas Regulations Update
Mercer Island, Washington
The Watershed Company assisted the City of Mercer Island with an update to its critical lands policies and regulations to comply with the Washington State Growth Management Act and the Endangered Species Act. Work included a stream inventory and a complete revision of critical areas regulations that incorporated an incentive-driven approach with flexible buffer widths. Revised regulations were developed in conjunction with "best available science" and other criteria, and measured for consistency with the City's Comprehensive Plan. The Watershed Company participated in stakeholder meetings to incorporate feedback and obtain the informed consent of the City's various interest groups. Over the years, The Watershed Company has also helped Sammamish and Skagit Counties and the Cities of Sammamish, Monroe, Medina, Kirkland, Stanwood and several others revise their critical areas regulations.