Restoration Planning

STEP 3 - Look for "shortcuts" for characterizing shoreline ecological functions

The complexity of these provisions on shoreline ecosystem inventory and characterization reflects the complexity of the shoreline ecosystems that the Act protects. In light of this complexity, a local government should not embark on analysis by starting from scratch. Instead, local governments should consider and use all existing analysis that might be adapted to this information gathering and characterization process.

In WAC 173-26-201(3)(d)(i)(B), the Guidelines expressly invite local government to use such tools:

2. The characterization of shoreline ecological systems may be achieved by using one or more of the approaches below:

1. If a regional environmental management plan, such as a watershed plan or coastal erosion study, is ongoing or has been completed, then conduct the characterization either within the framework of the regional plan or use the data provided in the regional plan. This methodology is intended to contribute to an in-depth and comprehensive assessment and characterization.
2. If a regional environmental management plan has not been completed, use available scientific and technical information, including flood studies, habitat evaluations and studies, water quality studies, and data and information from environmental impact statements. This characterization of ecosystem-wide processes and the impact upon the functions of specific habitats and human health and safety objectives may be of a generalized nature.

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