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<br />Kittitas County Board of County Commissioners Shoreline Master Program Adopting Ordinance <br />Kittitas County Shoreline Master Program Exhibit B | March 2016 | Page 203 of 339 <br /> <br />2.5. Shorelines <br />2.5.1. Introduction <br />The 2016 Kittitas County Shoreline Master Program goals and policies are adopted by reference into this <br />comprehensive plan. is endowed with a variety and abundance of lakes, rivers, and streams. A county <br />undergoing considerable change and development cannot long take for granted such valuable and <br />limited resources. It shall be the objective of the County, therefore, to provide for the long range <br />management of shorelines and adjacent wetlands by planning for and fostering all reasonable and <br />appropriate uses, including residential, industrial, agricultural, private and public recreation, etc. This <br />policy is designed to ensure the development and/or preservation of shorelines, which will promote and <br />enhance both private and public interest. It will also provide a policy framework whereby decisions are <br />formulated before controversial issues or crises develop which often result in hasty, ill-advised solutions. <br />GPO 2.49 In compliance with RCW 90.58 Kittitas County should undertake an updated comprehensive <br />study of its lakes and rivers, including an inventory of and classification of all shoreline lands, swamps, <br />and marshes. <br />GPO 2.50 The County should, in compliance with the Shorelines Management Act prepare and adopt a <br />comprehensive land use and restoration plan related to its lakes, streams, rivers, and associated <br />wetlands consistent with the requirements of RCW 36.70A and 90.58. <br />The following goals and policies are part of the Shoreline Master Program for Kittitas County <br />Washington originally adopted in 1975. <br />2.5.2. Shoreline Management <br />GPO 2.51 Shoreline Use: Kittitas County is characterized by four major shoreline uses: (1) irrigated <br />agriculture; (2) range; (3) forest and wild lands; (4) recreational use. A continuation of such uses should <br />be encouraged. <br />Alternative uses may occur which are compatible with the specific Environments of the Act, provided <br />that they are compatible to the physical characteristics of any particular site. These concepts are <br />intended to promote a pattern of shoreline uses, which will minimize conflict, preserve high quality <br />environment, and leave open the greatest number of options for future generations of shoreline users. <br />GPO 2.52 Agriculture and Irrigation: Irrigated agriculture is a water dependent use and a key factor in <br />the economy of Kittitas County; therefore, it is a goal of our County that other shoreline uses should not <br />jeopardize production on agricultural lands. While other shoreline uses may be compatible with <br />irrigation systems, it is a goal of our County that all shoreline uses shall be constructed and maintained <br />in such a way as to not interfere with the diversion of delivery of water. Irrigation easements, head <br />ditches, headgates, turnouts, and other necessary appurtenances shall be given priority.