The state Department of Ecology approved a revised set of policies last week for development along waterways in the city of Ridgefield.
The city’s Shoreline Master Program was approved by state officials after formal review, public comment and some changes. In order for the shoreline plan to take effect, the city must accept those changes. The new rules would take effect two weeks after the state’s final action on the proposal, according to the ecology department.
Ridgefield is one of six cities in Clark County, plus the county itself, taking part in the coordinated planning effort. The process aims to update the rules and designations that guide development and habitat restoration along rivers, lakes and streams. Many local shoreline programs haven’t been updated in decades, according to the ecology department.
Ridgefield’s plan applies to portions of the Lake River and Gee Creek. The plan and other documents can be viewed at http://ecy.wa.gov/programs/sea/shorelines/smp/citizen.html.
