Ecology Priorities > Saving Puget Sound > Overview > 2020 Action Agenda

Puget Sound Partnership and the 2020 Action Agenda

With Governor Chris Gregoire's leadership, the 2007 Washington Legislature took a giant step forward to implement Washington’s strategy to restore Puget Sound to a healthier condition by 2020. The measures also were designed to maintain and expand the $20 billion of economic and recreational activities in Washington that depend on the Sound.

The Governor created the Puget Sound Partnership to lead and coordinate Puget Sound recovery efforts. In December 2008, the Partnership released its Puget Sound Action Agenda which outlines the immediate and long-term actions necessary to restore and protect Puget Sound.

Despite an unprecedented state budget deficit, the Legislature demonstrated continued support for protecting and restoring Puget Sound during the 2009 session. Lawmakers earmarked $78.5 million for various projects to help ensure economic, environmental and social benefits, and create and sustain new green jobs in the state’s difficult economy. (See Puget Sound restoration fares well in difficult legislative session)

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration also awarded $16.5 million in federal Recovery Act funding for six projects from the Partnership’s Action Agenda to clean up Puget Sound and develop a salmon recovery plan. The projects include restoring 1,600 acres of critical slough and floodplain habitat and opening up a total of 38 miles in three river basins for salmon passage. (See Governor praises work of Partnership, $16.5 million in salmon, Puget Sound recovery funding)