Washington Coastal Marine Advisory Council

The Washington Coastal Marine Advisory Council serves as a forum for ocean policy, planning, and management issues on the state's Pacific coast. With 26 members representing diverse interests and entities, the advisory council provides recommendations to the state on how best to manage these important resources and uses. We manage operations on behalf of the Governor's Office and have a seat on the council.


Our role in the advisory council

In 2013, the Washington Coastal Marine Advisory Council was established by the Governor’s Office. We provide primary staff support and hold a seat on the council.

What are the council’s main duties?

The advisory council advises the governor, Washington Legislature, and state and local agencies on ocean policy, planning, and management issues. The advisory council, for instance, provided recommendations on the state’s marine spatial planning process.

Who is on the council?

The advisory council includes representatives from a variety of coastal interests, including citizens, commercial fishing, conservation, economic development, education, energy, recreation, recreational fishing, ports, shellfish aquaculture, shipping, and science. Coastal Marine Resource Committees each have a seat, as does the Washington Coast Sustainable Salmon Partnership. Several state agencies also have seats.

The governor appoints members to the Washington Coastal Marine Advisory Council, and members serve four year terms. Members are eligible for reappointment.

Learn more and get involved

Advisory council meetings are open to the public. Opportunities for public comment are part of every meeting. The advisory council meets at least two times a year, usually in Aberdeen. Join our WA-Ocean email list to get notifications about upcoming meetings.