SJC Reviews Shoreline Habitat & Infrastructure Adaptation Strategies in the face of Sea Level Rise

SAN JUAN COUNTY, WA. September 24, 2024 – San Juan County is working to develop a County-wide approach to addressing sea level rise and managing impacts to nearshore infrastructure and habitat. This work will align with the forthcoming updates to the SJC Comprehensive Plan and revisions to the County’s Unified Development Code.

During the September 17 Council meeting, staff from the Department of Environmental Stewardship presented findings and work on the following: 1) Sea Level Rise Vulnerability and Risk Assessment; 2) a framework for approaching sea level-related projects, and 3) a StoryMap to be used in educating the community on the real and potential implications of sea level rise in the islands.

Sea Level Rise in San Juan County

The County worked with Environmental Science Associates (ESA) to publish a Sea-Level Rise Risk & Vulnerability Assessment for San Juan County, including county-wide sea level rise maps. You can access a summary of the report via an interactive StoryMap that guides readers through the science. The StoryMap includes sea level rise mapping, facts from the vulnerability assessment, a water level look-up table, and more.

Developing a Framework

The County is developing a framework to help guide future policy and projects related to sea level rise. This framework seeks to both gather and provide locally relevant information, engage and increase awareness among residents, and guide policy development for effective infrastructure and sensitive habitat management.

Community Conversations

The County plans to host community conversations with several neighborhoods to share case studies and discuss ways to manage the impacts of sea level rise in specific areas around the islands. Feedback from the community will help to inform potential policies and projects that will address community access and utility needs, as well as protections for the environment.

The County expects to conduct community conversations in early 2025 and will reach out to property owners and neighborhoods directly with more information.

Learn more about sea level rise in San Juan County at: https://engage.sanjuancountywa.gov/strategic-shoreline-adaptation

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