2023-08-14-minutes-public-works-study-session

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WHEREAS, use of artificial structures, such as stormwater treatment systems, to provide wetlands functions and values may be more costly than protection of existing wetlands; and WHEREAS, there is need for stronger state coordination to ensure wetlands protection; NOW, THEREFORE, I, Booth Gardner, Governor of the State of Washington, by virtue of the power vested in me, do hereby order: Section 1. It is the interim goal of my administration to achieve no overall net loss in acreage and function of Washington's remaining wetlands base. It is further the long-term goal to increase the quantity and quality of Washington's wetlands resource bass. Section 2. In the interest of preserving and protecting valuable resources, the Department of Ecology shall provide guidance and each affected state agency shall provide to the Governor an action plan, where appropriate, to lessen the destruction, loss, or degradation of wetlands and to preserve and enhance the natural and beneficial values of wetlands. Section 3. Each affected state agency shall ensure that it avoids any activities that would adversely affect wetlands, and that unavoidable impacts are adequately mitigated. Section 4. To meet the long-term goal of this order, each affected state agency, in pursuing its agency mandate, should seek opportunities for voluntary wetlands restoration and creation of additional wetlands. Section 5. In carrying out the intent of this order, each affected state agency shall consider the ecologic and hydrologic benefits provided by wetlands. Each affected state agency shall strive to prevent environmental and economic harm that results from continuing loss of wetlands, consistent with human health and safety and the general welfare of the state. Section 6. Each affected state agency shall encourage sensitive site design and planning on a watershed basis, where appropriate, to avoid or minimize damage to wetlands. Section 7. Each affected agency shall, when possible, direct its agency -mandated activities not dependent upon wetlands locations to suitable upland locations. Section 8. Nothing in this Executive Order shall apply to assistance provided for emergency work that is essential to save lives and protect property and public health and safety. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the State of Washington to be affixed at OIympia this I Ith day of December A.D., Nineteen hundred and eighty-nine. By: