King County's commitment to salmon conservation and environmental protection has resulted in a strong record of accomplishments. Further, it has resulted in a better understanding of conservation practices that will benefit everyone - fish and wildlife, the greater ecosystem, and our own quality of life.

Our environmental legal responsibilities began to change three years ago when chinook salmon and bull trout were listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). New federal rules prohibit take, which makes it illegal to harm listed species or their habitat. Although federal agencies are reexamining requirements for protecting salmon and currently defining recovery goals, King County has taken the initiative to collaborate with regional partners and make progress now towards conservation on the ground.

View "Conserving Salmon" report (.pdf 4,472 KB)

Through the Tri-County Salmon Conservation Coalition, we proposed an unprecedented local salmon conservation program - the Tri-County Model 4(d) Rule Response Proposal. The Tri-County Coalition also recently contracted a third party Biological Review of this Model that functions as an extensive best available science resource. The Washington Growth Management Act requires local governments to consider the best available science when protecting critical areas and making land use decisions. King County is using the Model and Biological Review as intended.

We are tailoring the Model to our particular landscape, using science as a guide, and modifying programs and regulations to conserve salmon. King County will use its authority under the Growth Management Act and the federal Clean Water Act to make changes and reduce potential legal liability under ESA. The County does not plan to seek formal approval of its development regulations under the federal ESA. We have requested a take limit for the Regional Road Maintenance Program that is pending approval. Most important is our policy commitment to do what we can within our legal authority to protect and restore habitat, and prevent further listings under ESA.

We have demonstrated how much we can achieve within our current means through innovation, however, conservation requires continuing commitment. We need to maintain strong regional, federal and state partnerships for adequate funding and comprehensive gains in conservation. This report, Conserving Salmon: King County Accomplishments and Action Plan, highlights King County's progress on conservation and charts our actions for the future.

Sincerely,

King County Executive

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View Report:
>> Conserving Salmon: King County Accomplishments and Action Plan (.pdf 4,472 KB)

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Updated: Aug. 27, 2002