Wendy Rae Johnson

The board discussed litigation regarding the District's Rates and Charges and received an update on the Conservation Commission's election review. Staff provided updates on recent conservation workshops, grant applications, and an office lease rate increase. Key business actions included the approval of the construction contract for the Bogachiel River Tributary Fish Passage Project, a personal services agreement for riparian forest buffer maintenance, and an interagency agreement for riparian buffer restoration monitoring. The board also discussed the staff resources associated with public records requests and ratified all final actions taken by the board during the first half of the year.

The board meeting included public comments regarding irrigation maintenance and public meeting records. Staff provided updates on the district work plan, wildfire preparedness initiatives, election processes, and upcoming workshops on invasive weed control and wildfire mitigation. Reports were also provided by the district manager, conservation planners, and technicians. Financial business included the approval of the treasurer's report and the annual BARS Schedule 22 report. New business involved the election of board supervisor positions, the approval of a letter of support for the Sol Duc Watershed resilience project, and a discussion regarding legislative concepts for conservation district election funding and governance.

The Clallam Conservation District's 2026 Annual Work Plan outlines its strategic approach to natural resource management, focusing on achieving sustainable and clean water, protecting and restoring fish and wildlife habitats, and fostering healthy soil and sustainable lands. The plan also emphasizes robust outreach and education initiatives, along with efficient district operations to secure funding, maintain a skilled workforce, and foster collaboration, all aimed at promoting the protection, sustainability, and enhancement of natural resources across Clallam County.

The board discussed the recent election wrap-up, including ballot processing and future in-person voting considerations. Staff provided updates on various conservation projects such as scotch broom removal, cover crop workshops, septic system cost-share programs, and planting efforts. The board reviewed and approved an applicant authorization for a fish passage grant, the purchase of a bridge for a tributary project, and travel for staff to attend an upcoming conference. Additionally, public comments were heard regarding water resource management, local land use concerns, and civility in public discourse.

The board approved a revised purchase price for a bridge project for the Dickey River Tributary due to increased freight costs resulting from a change in the fabrication location to meet project timelines. Additionally, the board authorized the engagement of legal counsel from Foster Garvey to represent the district in a lawsuit filed in Clallam County Superior Court.