Welcome to Skagit County

October 23rd, 2008

Skagit County receives Targeted Watershed grant from U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

SKAGIT COUNTY – Skagit County recently received a four-year Targeted Watershed grant from the United States Environmental Protection Agency to address conflicts between agriculture, environmental, and development interests in the Skagit watershed through an “alternative futures” study. The project aims first to identify four possible future visions for the Skagit River Watershed in 2060, then to develop a “preferred” future through a diverse stakeholder group. Project goals are to preserve a robust local agricultural economy and improve ecosystem functions, while accommodating projected growth.

The county commissioners will appoint a broadly-representative stakeholder group in 2009 to develop the preferred future. County responsibilities to implement the preferred future may require changes in zoning, regulations, incentives, and other policies and programs. Other parties, including cities, state and federal agencies, and non-profit organizations, will also likely have implementation responsibilities. Many of these parties have begun working with the county on a steering committee to guide project decision-making.

Skagit County will receive $625,000 to fund the project. For additional information visit www.skagitcounty.net/alternativefutures/ or contact Kirk Johnson, project manger at 360-336-9410 or kirkj@co.skagit.wa.us.