Futurewise Recommends Changes to Riparian Ecoystem Management

The Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife is updating their recommendations for scientifically sound management of riparian ecosystems (rivers, streams and surrounding areas). Futurewise largely supports these changes and the attached comment letter outlines our suggestions for improving them further.

Our top suggested changes include:

  • Clearly explaining how science support the value of statewide recommendations, even if ground-level application will vary around the state
  • Emphasizing the need, required by the Growth Management Act, to designate and protect all critical areas
  • Clearly explain the importance of maintaining existing riparian areas and their habitats

Futurewise Recommends Changes to Riparian Ecoystem Management

The Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife is updating their recommendations for scientifically sound management of riparian ecosystems (rivers, streams and surrounding areas). Futurewise largely supports these changes and the attached comment letter outlines our suggestions for improving them further.

Our top suggested changes include:

  • Clearly explaining how science support the value of statewide recommendations, even if ground-level application will vary around the state
  • Emphasizing the need, required by the Growth Management Act, to designate and protect all critical areas
  • Clearly explain the importance of maintaining existing riparian areas and their habitats

Meet Bergen Schmidt, Legal Intern!

  This summer Bergen joined the Futurewise team. Bergen worked with our very small and mighty legal team, in a year where we’ve had plenty of comprehensive plans to review. We’ve been so happy to have you this summer! Tell … Continue reading

Tiffany Wilk Chang
August 20, 2025

Futurewise Wins Appeal of Mercer Island’s Comprehensive Plan, Setting Precedent for Statewide Implementation of Affordable Housing Policies

  Last week, alongside Mercer Island residents Kian Bradley and Trevor Reed, we prevailed in our appeal with the Growth Management Hearings Board (GMHB) of the Mercer Island comprehensive plan. Why this matters: This ruling is the first to test … Continue reading

Tiffany Wilk Chang
August 7, 2025