A. The Growth Management Act requires jurisdictions to include the best available science when designating and protecting critical areas. The Growth Management Act also requires the implementation of conservation or protection measures necessary to preserve or enhance anadromous fish and their habitat (WAC 365-195-900 through 365-195-925). Anadromous fish are those that spawn and rear in freshwater and mature in the marine environment, including salmon and char (bull trout).

B. Best available science shall be used in developing policies and development regulations to protect the functions and values of critical areas. Critical area reports and decisions to alter critical areas shall rely on the best available science to protect the functions and values of critical areas. The best available science is that scientific information applicable to the critical area prepared by local, state or federal natural resource agencies, a qualified scientific professional or team of qualified scientific professionals that is consistent with criteria established in WAC 365-195-900 through 365-195-925. (Ord. 1036 § 8, 2006).