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A state law requires an interagency team of state natural resource agencies to develop the Marine Spatial Plan. A key element of the planning process is integrating existing state management plans and authorities into the MSP. The current planning effort is focused on developing a Marine Spatial Plan for Washington’s Pacific Coast – from Cape Flattery to Cape Disappointment.

Washington is using an existing interagency team, the State Ocean Caucus, to conduct MSP. The team is chaired by the Governor’s office and coordinated by the Department of Ecology. Ecology is the designated lead for coordinating the development of the MSP. Other State Ocean Caucus agencies involved in developing the MSP include: Washington Department of Natural Resources, Department of Fish and Wildlife, Washington Sea Grant and State Parks and Recreation Commission.

The planning process will also involve and engage coastal stakeholders, the public and local, tribal, and federal governments.
 
 
State Ocean Caucus Representatives

The Washington State Governor’s Office has several top priorities including revitalizing Washington’s ecolomy, balancing the budget, improving eduction, reforming government, and addressing the spiraling costs of health care. Governor Jay Inslee signed a bill into law in May 2013 to establish the Washington Coastal Marine Advisory Council (WCMAC) in the Office of the Governor. They are working in a collaborative process to create a plan for the future of the coast and the people of Washington.

The Washington Department of Ecology is the lead agency for coordinating the marine spatial planning process. Ecology protects, proserves, and enhances the environment, promotes wise management of air, land, and water for the benefit of current and future generations. Ecology is required by law to submit the completed marine spatial plan for review and inclusion in the Coastal Zone Management Program (CZM).

The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) administers the funding for all marine spatial planning projects. DNR partners with citizens and governments to provide innovative leadership and expertise to ensure environmental protection, public safety, perpetual funding for schools and communities, and a rich quality of life. DNR works on behalf of the people of the state to make sure that the 2.6 million acres of state-owned aquatic lands and publically managed lands are productive, healthy, and sustainably managed.

Washington Sea Grant serves communities, industries, and the people of Washington state and the nation through research, education, and outreach on marine issues and management of marine resources. Sea Grant coordinates outreach, develops social indicators, and leads the scientific evaluation of data for the marine spatial planning process.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) preserves, protects, and perpetuates fish, wildlife and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities. WDFW co-manages marine resources with tribes and leads Washington state on policy and management decisions by coordinating with tribes, federal, state and local governments, and stakeholders.

The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission acquires, operates, enhances, and protects a diverse system of recreational, cultural, historical, and natural sites. The Commission fosters outdoor recreation and education statewide to provide enjoyment and enrichment for all and a valued legacy to future generations.

The Washington State Department of Health protects and improves the health of people of Washington State. This includes maintaining excellent water quality, pollution control, and monitoring toxins to ensure seafood is safe to eat. DOH is a lead data provider of aquaculture and water quality monitoring information for the Marine Spatial Planning process.

Puget Sound Partnership restores and protects Puget Sound through citizen involvement. PSP is required by law to integrate marine spatial information and planning provisions into the Puget Sound Action Agenda. The interagency team is working with PSP to compile marine spatial information and to incorporate the information into ongoing plans.

Military Department’s Emergency Management Division minimizes the impact of emergencies and disasters on the people, property, environment, and economy of Washington State. They strive to prepare residents throughout the state to prepare for emergencies and disaster situations through education and support for fire safety, search and rescue procedures, disaster medical operations, developing evacuation plans, and so much more.

Washington Department of Commerce grows and improves jobs in Washington State by championing thriving communities, a propserous economy, and sustainable infrastructure. They strive to make Washington the most attractive, creative, and fertile investment environment for innovation by enhancing and promoting sustainable community and economic vitality in Washington.

Washington State Department of Agriculture focuses on impacts of agriculture chemicals on Washington state’s natural resources. The goal is to work with agricultural communities and regulators to protect Washington’s natural wealth and the environment. WSDA addresses a variety of groundwater issues that involve fertilizers and pesticides. In addition, WSDA serves as the lead state agency for eradication of spartina, an aggressive weed that disrupts the ecosystems of native saltwater estuaries. The agency also serves on the Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board.