Rose Bennett

The workshop breakout session focused on the social and cultural values associated with kelp and eelgrass ecosystems. Key discussion topics included the importance of sense of place, connection to nature, foodways, and traditional ecological knowledge. Participants discussed challenges such as integrating human and community well-being into ecological restoration, managing tourism impacts on tribal treaty rights, and the lack of public awareness regarding local marine environments. The value of environmental and social justice, as well as the role of these ecosystems in health and well-being, were also highlighted.

This strategic plan outlines the vision and mission for the agency, focusing on protecting the environment and public health. It identifies four core goals: supporting and engaging communities, customers, and employees; reducing and preparing for climate impacts; preventing and reducing waste, toxic threats, and pollution; and protecting and managing the state's waters. The plan highlights initiatives, major milestones, and operational improvements to advance these goals, aiming to protect and sustain healthy land, air, water, and climate in harmony with a strong economy for current and future generations.

The board discussed funding strategies for an upcoming grant round, considering uncertainty regarding federal funding and the need for flexibility in managing resources. Staff provided updates on the state budget, the submission of the Pacific Coastal Salmon Recovery Fund application, and progress on the riparian implementation package. Additionally, the board reviewed potential policy and process improvements related to riparian project funding, including the possibility of a funding renewal option and the development of standardized templates for grant applications.

The task force met to review and discuss a research proposal titled Agricultural Industrial Symbiosis: An Applied Research Project as an Alternate Approach to Reduce/Eliminate Emissions from Agricultural Burning. Members evaluated the project's viability, including economic aspects and technical goals related to treating dairy waste. The task force reached a consensus to recommend that Ecology provide full funding of $90,000 for the project. Additionally, the meeting included a public comment segment regarding apple maggot quarantine areas and burning.

This strategic plan outlines the Washington Invasive Species Council's roadmap for 2020-2025 to prevent the introduction and spread of harmful invasive species. The plan focuses on six key strategic areas: Leadership and Coordination, Innovation and Research, Education and Outreach, Prevention, Early Detection and Rapid Response, and Eradication, Control, and Containment. Its overarching vision is to sustain Washington's human, plant, and animal communities and its thriving economy, empowering stakeholders through coordinated efforts and policy direction.