Anne Hayden, a resident and volunteer forest steward in the Greater Clinton area, told Island County commissioners that English holly is spreading through local coniferous forests and should be addressed more forcefully in the county comprehensive plan.

Hayden said she has worked for 20 years removing invasive holly on a 20-acre homeowners association parcel and on a neighboring 100-acre preserve. "English holly, when left unchecked, takes over the understory of coniferous forests, edging out invasive species that are essential for the health of the forest," she said, and described the plant's ability to spread via birds and root suckering.

Hayden noted that English holly is not yet listed as a noxious weed in Washington but said the Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board is considering listing it as a Class B species this year and recommended the county align the comprehensive plan with that likely future listing. She referenced the county's 2016 comprehensive plan language that "consider[s] a higher level of habitat stewardship" and urged the 2025 plan to move from consideration to requirement, including assistance for private forest owners.

Commissioners acknowledged the comment and indicated planning staff present would note the request for attention to invasive species removal during the comprehensive plan update. No formal action was taken at the meeting.