Skagit County reviews critical areas ordinance to enhance environmental protections

The Skagit County Planning Commission convened on April 22, 2025, to discuss critical areas and proposed changes to the county's development regulations. The meeting focused on the importance of protecting designated critical areas, which include wetlands, aquifer recharge areas, fish and wildlife habitats, frequently flooded areas, and geologically hazardous zones.

The discussion began with an overview of critical areas as mandated by Washington state law, specifically referencing the Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 365-196-450. The county has all five designated critical areas, which are essential for both environmental protection and public safety. The Planning Commission emphasized that while many associate critical areas with environmental concerns, they also encompass human health and safety issues, particularly regarding floodplains and geological hazards.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the concept of "best available science" (BAS), which is required for local jurisdictions to incorporate into their regulations. The last comprehensive update to Skagit County's critical areas ordinance occurred in 2006, and the commission acknowledged the need for a thorough review to align with current scientific standards. Any deviations from BAS must be justified and documented, particularly in urban areas where space constraints may limit compliance.

The term "no net loss" was also highlighted as a critical principle in the discussion. This concept requires that any development must balance growth with the protection of critical area functions and values, ensuring that there is no overall degradation of these resources.

The meeting concluded with a focus on the gap analysis document, which identifies deficiencies in the current critical areas ordinance compared to the best available science. This analysis will guide future updates to ensure that the county's regulations effectively protect its critical areas while accommodating necessary development.

Overall, the Planning Commission's discussions underscored the importance of updating regulations to reflect current scientific understanding and the need for a balanced approach to development and environmental protection in Skagit County.