The City of Washougal is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a significant grant to complete the Shoreline Master Plan Program (SMP) Update and Education Campaign Project. This project represents a significant step forward in the city's commitment to environmental stewardship and responsible shoreline management. The anticipated completion date for the project is June 2025.
Community Development Director Mitch Kneipp expressed excitement about the grant and its potential impact, saying, “This grant represents a tremendous opportunity for Washougal. Our shorelines are not only beautiful natural assets but also essential habitats for wildlife. With this funding, we can ensure their long-term health and vitality while promoting responsible land use.”
The $175,000 grant, which was awarded by Washington State Department of Ecology, will provide essential funding to support the completion of the SMP Update and the launch of an extensive education campaign directed toward property owners on responsible shoreline maintenance. The Department of Ecology chose the city after evaluating various criteria, including the presence of a distinct and pressing issue requiring attention, the potential benefits to both the public and the environment, and the city's population size. These grant funds allow the city to complete this mandatory update at no further cost to residents.
In addition to the SMP Update, the education campaign component of the project will be pivotal in raising awareness and engaging the local community. The city will develop a Shoreline Handbook and a corresponding mailer to educate the public designed to empower residents, businesses, and organizations to play an active role in shoreline preservation and responsible management.
City Manager David Scott added, "We are grateful to the Department of Ecology for their support, and we look forward to working closely with our community stakeholders to ensure the success of this project."
About Shoreline Planning
Shoreline planning in Washington state is a comprehensive process designed to safeguard the shoreline environment by regulating its various uses. All municipalities within Washington that have shorelines are mandated by the state to update their Shoreline Master Plans (SMPs) and incorporate them into their Comprehensive Plans.
Enacted in 1972, The Shoreline Management Act (SMA) established a state-local partnership for managing, accessing, and protecting Washington's shorelines. Under the SMA, local governments are mandated to create customized policies and regulations to govern shoreline usage within their respective jurisdictions.
Contact:
Mitch Kneipp
Community Development Director
mitch.kneipp@cityofwashougal.us
360.835.8501 ext. 604