No Net Loss Work Group

Overview

The Shoreline Management Act (SMA) provides a broad policy framework for protecting the natural resources and ecology of the shoreline environment. The SMP Guidelines establish the standard of "no net loss" of shoreline ecological functions as the means of implementing that framework through shoreline master programs. WAC 173-26-186(8) directs that master programs "include policies and regulations designed to achieve no net loss of those ecological functions." (The specific sections of the Guidelines addressing the NNL requirement are included at the end of this chapter.)

The SMP Guidelines, adopted in 2003, constitute the first actual rule (WAC) in Washington State to incorporate the no net loss requirement. The concept of no net loss in this State originated with earlier efforts to protect wetlands. In 1989, Governor Booth Gardner signed an Executive Order establishing a statewide goal regarding wetlands protection. "It is the interim goal...to achieve no overall net loss in acreage and function of Washington's remaining wetlands base. It is further the long-term goal to increase the quantity and quality of Washington's wetlands resource base." (E.O. 89-10).

Note: From WDOE NNL Handbook Introduction

Enhancing Shoreline Protection (ESP) Project

Funded by the EPA (Region 10) Puget Sound Watershed Management Assistance Program: Protecting Watersheds, Water Quality, and Aquatic Resources from the Impacts of Growth

Introduction

This project creates a unique and unprecedented partnership between a county just beginning its SMP update (Clallam), a county about to implement a newly adopted SMP (Jefferson), and the Department of Ecology that will ultimately enhance the ability of all local jurisdictions to protect Puget Sound. Clallam County will serve as the grantee and will administer the grant on behalf of the three partners.

Project Plan

The ESP project includes a three-pronged approach to improving shoreline protection across Puget Sound by: using a No Net Loss framework in updating Clallam County's Shoreline Master Program; providing resources to implement and track Jefferson County's SMP; and supporting Ecology in developing solutions to major obstacles limiting protection.

The 3 components of the ESP project:

• Component 1 - Identify obstacles and solutions for SMP development and implementation. Lead: WA Department of Ecology
• Component 2 - Supplement Clallam SMP Update using indicators as the basis of a NNL Framework. Lead: Clallam Co.
• Component 3 - Develop tools for implementing and monitoring adopted SMPs. Lead: Jefferson County

ESP Component Number 1 - WA Department of Ecology

No Net Loss Forums

Puget Sound SMP Obstacles/Solutions Forum Number 2

Visit the event page.

Thursday, November 3, 2011 from 10 am to 3 pm.

Tukwila Community Center
12424 42nd Avenue South
Tukwila, WA

The Shoreline Master Program Forums Steering Committee will hold the second of four forums on Thursday, November 3, from 10 am to 3 pm at the Tukwila Community Center. The purpose of the second forum is to confirm priority obstacles to address and to continue development of solutions to those obstacles. Subsequent forums will focus on further refining solutions, and on developing strategies and roles and responsibilities to implement solutions.

As an individual working in the SMP realm who could likely benefit from, and contribute to, potential solutions, we are inviting you to participate in the forums. You have the direct knowledge and experience needed to develop realistic, "on the ground" solutions for SMP jurisdictions throughout the Puget Sound region. The opportunity to share experiences, articulate challenges, and develop coherent solutions will provide you with the know-how to get through the process more effectively and with fewer headaches.

Can't make it to this forum? You can participate via a webinar. Please let us know how you will participate when you register.

For more information about the forums, contact Chris Hoffman at 206-387-2050 or email Chris Hoffman.

Puget Sound SMP Obstacles/Solutions Forum Number 1

View the NNL Obstacle/Solutions Forum Number 1 Facilitator Notes (PDF)

View the Requests for Proposals Process for No Net Loss Forums page.