06 • 20 • 2018
Date of the decision: June 20th, 2018
Washington Chapters
Brief Description: The Surfrider Foundation applauds the State of Washington and the state ocean caucus for their leadership and dedication to preserving and protecting the marine ecosystem and the various human uses off the Washington coast for future generations. The recently completed marine spatial plan sets out strong policies for protecting fisheries and sensitive resources that are critical to our coastal communities and ocean health. The plan also maximizes Washington’s ability to review and influence decisions in federal waters and sets a foundation for continued engagement and coordination with federal agencies, tribes, and coastal communities. This plan is the result of an inclusive process with numerous stakeholder representatives convened on the Washington Coastal Marine Advisory Council (WCMAC), including recreational representation by the Surfrider Foundation, as well as the incorporation of the best available science.
Decision Making Body: Washington Department of Ecology
How the victory benefits the environment or improves access (connection to mission):
The Marine Spatial Plan (MSP) is a scientific and planning resource that:
Partner organizations: Washington Coastal Marine Advisory Council and various stakeholders, Washington Departments of Ecology, State Parks, Fish & Wildlife, and Natural Resources, The Nature Conservancy.
Web links: Coastal Blog Post