PublicHearing_StaffReport_2026_V3.0

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Page 3 I didn't see it in the existing or proposed Goals and Policies, but we should consider adding a Policy that designates open space areas that are within critical areas as a higher protection standard, potentially natural open space. There are only a few recreational elements that are consistent with critical areas protection, yet there are quite a few elements allowed in open space that are usually not compatible with critical areas. Designating these areas as a higher protection open space would likely reduce some of that conflict. Section 10. Climate. While we appreciate the elements of the climate section, it is primarily geared towards human uses. The County should include policies that "Identify, protect, and enhance natural areas to foster resiliency to climate impacts, as well as areas of vital habitat for safe passage and species migration". They should either include those policies within the climate element or show which policies in the other elements meet this requirement. 10.7.1. Drought. Additions: Encourage water conservation to protect instream flows for fish and aquatic ecosystems. Preserve wildlife migration corridors so that wildlife can adapt to drought and resiliency. 10.7.5. Wildfire. Modify CR-G5, P 16 to address limiting new development in areas with high wildfire risk. 10.1.2. Statewide and Regional Consistency Washington Habitat Connectivity Action Plan (WAHCAP) We appreciate that reference to the plan is included and we believe this demonstrates a commitment to working to incorporate wildlife habitat connectivity into the county's document. While corridors were correctly identified in the Cascade region and connecting the Cascades to Hanford, there is a corridor of Statewide Significance that runs north to south in the eastern section of the county referred to as the Columbia Plateau Backbone, see attached screenshot below. Please amend the paragraph to include this corridor.