Cathlamet Shoreline Master Program

On July 31, 2019, we approved the town of Cathlamet's comprehensive update to their Shoreline Master Program (SMP). The effective date of Cathlamet's SMP is Aug. 14, 2019, 14 days after our notice to the town that their SMP was approved, per RCW 90.58.090.

On June 17, 2019, we provided a conditional approval with changes to Cathlamet on their SMP, the required and recommended changes were based on our review of whether of not the proposed update complies with state laws and rules, and a public comment period held Oct. 25 through Nov. 30, 2017.

Both mail and email were used to notify interested parties of the public comment period. We also issued a blog post to encourage public participation and comment. We received one written comment letter that focused on fish and wildlife habitats and species. On Dec. 5, 2017, we sent a summary of comments to the town for their response. The public comment and the town's responses are provided as Attachment D and have been summarized in Attachment A.

The comprehensive update will revise the existing shoreline program including the goals, policies, regulations, shoreline environment designations, and administrative procedures and definitions. Shorelines of the state in Cathlamet include approximately 2.3 miles of Columbia River along the Elochoman Slough, and Cathlamet Channel. Cathlamet's updated SMP will provide for redevelopment, and for managing flood risk and shoreline critical areas. This approval puts the final stamp on a significant effort that will promote public access, protection and restoration of riparian habitat, and recognize Cathlamet's historic land use pattern.