Efforts at *streamlining* don’t usually mean doing a better at job automating processes, nor do they usually add staff for helping the human decision-making process. It usually is a way to give existing staff more latitude to get around complex environmental protection regulations. I still don’t know enough to know if this is a really bad situation or one that is just a good intention that will be run over by industry. Time will tell, I guess. In the meantime, let’s send off a comment to WDFW and ask to take this back to the drawing board.
http://kplu.org/post/watchdog-group-concerned-about-hydraulic-code-update
Proposals to streamline permitting for development in and around state waters have some environmental groups worried. The groups are concerned the changes could weaken crucial protections for fish and their habitat. At issue is the state’s Hydraulic Code, which dictates how permits are issued for any project that touches a waterway—things like docks, culverts, and bulkheads. The law’s main aim is to protect fish and their habitat. “It is what sets the standards, and it’s really the gatekeeper for environmental protection in the face of development and construction projects,” said Amy Carey, executive director of Sound Action, an environmental watchdog group which aims to enforce the law. Bellamy Pailthorp reports. (WDFW holds a public meeting on the update tonight 6-8 pm at its Mill Creek Office, 16018 Mill Creek Blvd.)
Filed under: Around the Sound, Government |
