Natural Resource Lands
All local governments in Washington state need to determine where natural resource industries, including forestry, agricultural, mining, and fisheries industries, can productively operate. They must use land-use controls to designate and conserve the necessary lands and to avoid conflicts with these industries from other land uses.
Background
The goal is to conserve and protect natural resource production activities on these designated lands by avoiding interference from other incompatible land uses, such as residential housing. The requirement to classify, designate and protect natural resource lands (and critical areas) applies to all jurisdictions in the state, in recognition of the essential role of these lands in supporting economic productivity and healthy ecological systems.
Legal Basis
- Chapter 36-70A-060 RCW – Natural Resource Lands
- Chapter 365-196-815 WAC – Natural Resource Lands
- Chapter 365-190 WAC – Minimum Guidelines
Commerce Resources
- Designation of Agricultural Lands in Chelan, King, Lewis, and Yakima Counties, 2004 (PDF)
- Designation of Mineral Resource Lands under the Growth Management Act (PDF)
Additional Resources
Key Topics
Growth Management
Governor’s Smart Communities Awards Program
GMA Laws and Rules
GMA Periodic Update
Growth Management Grants
Growth Management Topics
Guidebooks and Resources
Civilian-Military Compatibility
Defense Community Compatibility
Regional Planners’ Forums
Short Course on Local Planning
Submitting Materials to the State for Review
Contact
Lexine Long, Senior Planner
Email: Lexine.Long@commerce.wa.gov
Phone: 360-480-4498