HomeMy WebLinkAbout041811_ra04
JEFFERSON COUNTY
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
AGENDA REQUEST
TO:
Board of Commissioners
FROM:
Peter Bahls and Mike Cronin, members, Public Lands Group
DATE:
April 18, 2011
RE:
Public Comment and Potential Revision and Adoption of a Draft "Forests for the Future:
An Asset Management Strategy for State Forest Lands in East Jefferson County"
STATEMENT OF ISSUE:
On April 4, 2011, the Board of County Commissioners will conduct a Public Hearing to hear public
comment and consider finalizing and adopting a Draft Forests for the Future: An Asset Management
Strategy for State Forest Lands in East Jefferson County, for submittal to the Washington State
Department ofNatoral Resources (DNR).
The Draft Strategy, once finalized and adopted by the County Commissioners, would be submitted to
DNR for consideration as an alternative to DNR's 2008 Asset Management Plan for East Jefferson
County.
ANALYSIS:
The Public Lands Group is requesting BoCC support for a long term plan to conserve the state forest
lands of East Jefferson County as descnDed in the draft report Forests for the Future - An Asset
Management Strategy for State Forestlands of East Jefferson County.
State forestlands are dispersed widely throughout East Jefferson County and are important in providing
timber revenue to the various taxing districts, for protecting fish and wildlife habitats, and for accessible
recreation and open space. State forest lands are also pillars that help hold up the forestry zoning and
timber land base in areas at risk of conversion for development. Instead of trading away many of these
public lands and consolidating in more remote areas as the 2008 DNR asset management strategy would
allow to occur, the report lays out a plan for DNR to help protect and strengthen the existing forest land
base and timber economy throughout East Jefferson County.
The plan, developed by the Public Lands Group (pLG), including citizens of Jefferson County with
expertise in forestry, habitat and conservation, addresses DNR's concern with continuing to manage
smaller parcels in areas with increasing development pressure. The plan evaluates the unique timber,
habitat, and recreational values of each parcel to identifY the best strategies for long term management.
The plan calls for most lands to continue to be managed by DNR as "working forests". Some parcels in
areas of the county with higher development pressure are proposed as Community Forests (ifDNR
decides not to manage them as working forests). Some smaller parcels with high ecological values and
low potential for timber revenue are proposed for permanent conservation through the Trust Land
Transfer program. Only four small parcels, with moderate to low habitat values and already largely
surrounded by development, are proposed as SlIitable for exchange.
The plan also recommends that DNR invest Property Replacement Account funds in east Jefferson
County to consolidate DNR's existing holdings and further strengthen the forest land base.
FISCAL IMPACT:
DNR's 2008 Asset Management Plan, if implemented, would shift DNR's holdings, including Trust
Lands, out of the eastern part of East Jefferson County thereby reducing DNR Trust Land revenue to
junior taxing districts (such as Fire Districts) where they are now located. Because DNR proposes to find
new locations within Jefferson County, it is possible revenues to the county itself might not be harmed.
The newly proposed "Forests for the Future" Asset Management Strategy would retain most Trust Lands
in their current locations, retain management by DNR, and thereby would protect existing revenues to
junior taxing districts where the properties are now located.
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board hear public testimony at the Public Hearing, consider the record, and
direct any refinements to the Draft Strategy.
If after closing the record and deliberating, the Board does not wish to make any revisions, on April 18
the Board could:
. Pass a Motion to adopt a Final Forests for the Future: An Asset Management Strategy for State
Forest Lands in East Jefferson County, and
. Pass a Motion to sign a letter transmitting the Strategy to Peter Goldmark, Commission of Public
Lands.
If the Board wishes to make revisions to the Draft Strategy, on April 18 the Board could pass a Motion
requesting the Public Lands Group and staff to make the changes, and bring back a Final Strategy for
adoption by the Board of County Commissioner at its next meeting, Aprll25.
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"p , Coun*tor
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1820 Jefferson Street
P.O. Boa 1220
Port TOWDsend,WA 98368
Da1rliI w. II1JIJ1ft11, ....-..- 1I JOIul AlIlItlD. DIatdct 3 .
1une 1,2009
Honorable Peter Goldmark
WAllhmgton State Comroi.lllrioner of Public Lands
1111 WRllhington Street
Olympia, WA 98504-7001
Dear Peter.
Thank you for your 1etter dated May 11,2009 whkh ftttther explained the proposed East Jefferson
Land Exclnmge between Pope Resourcesan4 the State DE.p=lwent of Natural Resources (DNR).
As ufI'e.led in your J.ettet, 1efferson ~ SUpports a delay of the exchange or sale ofDNR ~ls 6 .
imd 8. as well as portions ofONa parcels 5 and 7. To that effect. we have initiated outreach to
powntialpartners who may wish to participate in the future preservation of that \8nd. .
We .....P1~ your efforts in working withPope Resources regarding the protection of pUblic health
and water quality and look fOlwwd to working together to secure land needed for a CumlIbltli~ septic
system for the Pamdise Bay area.
Thank you againfor your wt1li~ to hear our c('~il1S. We aftp.e(,iateyourconsiderationofthe
County's interest in your decisions and look forward to working cooperatively with DNR and Pope
~U1ces in the coming months.
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Member
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Peter Goldmark
Washington State
Commissioner of Public lands
May 11, 2009
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The Honorable David Sullivan
The Honorable Phil Johnson
The Honorable John Austin
Jefferson County Board ofCommiRsloners
1820 Jefferson Street
P.O. Box 1220.
Port Townsend, W A 98368
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Dear Commissioners:
Thank you for the recent letWr,. dated May 1,2009 from Mr. Philip Morley, Jeffe1'SQn County
Administrator,regarding the proposed East Jefferson Land Exchange. I also appreciate
Chairman Austin taking the time to meet with me recently in Olympia to discuss your concerns.
AJ; I explained to Chairman Austin, DNR does consider the county's interest when making
decisioD$ regarding any state trust land, especially State Forest Lands (previously known as
Forest Board Lands). The State Forest Lands, however, are a state trust and managed according
to specific statutory requirements. The counties are beneficiaries of the income but do not have a
proprietary interest. It is the State's duty to protect and enhance the trust all a whole, not just
within the borders of individual counties, We believe the proposed exchange accomplishes this
objective by creating ("rest blocks that provide more sustainable habitat, recreation and revenue
fqr the eounty and other beneficiaries.
Regarding your specificreq\1ests, a 50-year restriction is not consistent with trust mm111gement
principles as it adversely affects property vall.lCS. Pope Resources could not reasonably be
e)tpeeted to take lands at full price with such a condition in place, and the State in turn could not
trade the lands at such a deeply discounted value. However, leaving the existing State Forest
Lands in place will likely result in reduced or no future income to the county, which again is not
consistent with prudent trust manl\gcment.
We believe that Pope Resources i1lls worked hard to address the concerns you have l'aised:
. Pope Resources has agreed to enter into an agreement with the Port Ludlow Village
Council (pL VC)and the South Bay Community Association (SBeA) committing to no
mining in DNR exchange parcel #6 and no rezones of these lands prior to 2025. We
believe this is a reasonable approach. especially given that controlling land use. including
Depli1tmenl of Natural Resources
1111 Washltlgton ST SE
MS 47001
Olympla. Washingtoll98504-7001
(360)902-1000
.....
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East Jeffmon Land Exchange
May II, 2009
page20f3
conversions, is much more appropriately addressed by the county and other local
govemments under the Growth Management Act, Shoreline Management Act and other
authorities rather th!In by the I>epartQ:lent of Natural Resources.
. Pope must comply with the Forest Practices Act requirements in the same manner as
DNR or any other forester. The Forest Practices Act is designed to address the conceQlS
you have identified and, other than ensuring compliance with the act, DNR does not have
the legal authority to require Pope to engage lti. forest practices that exceed those required
under the Forest Practices Act. As an additional meaSWe of protection, Pope has
acquired certification for their forest practices from the Sustainable Forestry Initiative,
This is the same certification program that DNR is operating under on the Olympic
Peninsula and therefore a similar level of protection would be provided under Pope's
ownership as under DNR's.
. Pope has been very responsive t9YOur cOncern regarding the protection of public health
and water quality in regards to the Paradise Bay CommunitY's need for a large, on"site
septic system. Pope agreed in writing to allow Paradise Bay to acquire the land it needs
for its septic system project, and they have agreed to work within the timeline necessary
for the community to meet its grant application. This goal is far easier for Pope to
8CCllmpllSh th!In for the state, which most likely would not be able to sell trust land for
this pmpose and certainly could not meet the same timellne.
. Pope Resources allows non-motorized recreation on their lands year-round and hUtl.ting is
allowed.where it does not pose a threat to residential areas. Given the proximity of some
DNR parcels to CClTtlnllUlities such as Port Ludlow (DNR 6), Tala Point (DNR 8) and
}JeaverValley (DNR 9), it is likely Pope will impose some shooting restrictions on those
properties to protect citizens. However. by acquiring Pope lands and consolidating trust
lands in less developed areas, DNR will actually make more state lands available for
sustainable recreation.
I believe DNR and Pope have acted in very good faith to address these issues wherever legally
and reasonably possible. I also understand and share yotu:' c()ncerns about conttolling land
conversions, which is in part why we are taking the Dabob Bay and Thorndyke trust land transfer
proposals to the Board of Natural Resources for approval in June. These proposals will transfer
llwnership llr lease 250 acre& of trust lands within this area to the county.
I have also directed my staff to approach Pope regarding the possibilities of a smallet exchange,
specifically without DNR 6, 8 and potP.nfiAny where feasible those pomllns llfDNR Sand 7 not
required as part of the Paradise Bay transaction. I am agreeable to withholding these parcels
frlJlll thj: exchange llf sale. but only for two years. During this time. I expect that you will also
actively explore and exercise your options lIS the duly elected and authorized representatives llf
i,. _ '. ~
.
East 1efferson Llmd Exchange
May 11,2009
Page 2 of3
1~ CO~ to add:ress proteCtion of these lands. . This could.OO through a purchase in fee,
p~ orJease ofdevelopn1ent ri~ acquisitioil Of aeonservation easement, loeal land
orilinance. or slruilF action.
I eannot simply hold these lands indefinitely and still exllCUte my trust responsibilities as the
C(If1')ri'1j'l$i()~ ofPublie LandS. However, by working rogether and using our joint authority, I
believe we. can successfully elrl'hlll1gl" anli reposition these lands for long term. sustainable
Il1II1lllgeJlle while also protecting them where appropriate 1ii>m conversion. I appreciate your
QOi1tinu.ed WiJ1ingness to work with us on thiseomplex transaction.
~inQereIy.
~~~.
Corumil1$iQIlCt of.'P1Jbnc Lands
....
ce: Leonard Young, Department Superviso~
Clay Sprague, Deputy Supervisor, Uplands
Steve Sa~, .Asset Management and Recreation Division Manager
1oh11 V~ Olympic Region Manager
David Nunes. President & CEO, Po~ Resources
File 09-0257
File 09.0332
.
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Philip Morley
1820 Jefferson street
PO Box 1220
Port TOWDsend, WA 98368
MllY 1, 2009
Honorable Peter Goldmark
Washington State Commissioner of Public Lands
1111 Washington Street
Olympia, WA 98504-7001
David Nunes, President & CEO
Pope Resources
19245 Tenth Ave. NE
Poulsbo, WA 98370-7456
BE: JefteMon County Position on Proposed DNRlPope Tbnbe.. Land Swap
Dear C'.nmmi...noner Goldmark and Mr. Nunes,
On April 24, 2009,The Jetremm Co~ CQmmi""ioners received a letter from Pope Resources
proposing certain mitigatiClllS of the proposed East Jefferson Land Exchange No. 86-083323.
Previously, the County ColtlJllissioners had written a letter to ConunissionerGo1dmark dated Marcb 23,.
2009, outlining the County's concerns about impacts from the proposed swap, and stating J.efferson
County's opposition to the swap in IIbsence of certain protections for the public and enviroJUnellt
At their meeting April 27, 2009, the Jefferson County Commi""ioners reviewed Pope Resourses'
proposed mitigation, IlI1d finds that it is nOM'eSponsive to our concerns. The Board directed that I clarify
their position for your attention. To wit: -
Jefferson County values DNRas a good steward ofits lands and the stD1'ounding environment Wea1so
value Pope Resources as an important land holder and corporate member of our COIIUilunity.
DNR Parcels 2, 5, 6, 8, n, 13 & 14 (see enclosed map) are County Trost Lands held and lI1lII1lIged by
DNR on Jefferson County's behalf. Assueh, we hope that DNR will give substantial weight to the
County's input on any proposed swap involving these properties.
The County remains deeply concerned that timberlands currently held by DNR and proposed to be
swapped to Pope Resources will be converted to non-timber uses such as mining or residential
development, negatively impacting the environment and established communities, and that even as timber
lands, unless they are m8naged in a manner consistent with DNR's practices, sigI1ificant avoidable
iInpaets to environment and water quality are poS$ible.
Phoo.e (36Q)385-9100
Fax (360)385-9382
pmor1ey@co.jelfersoo..wa.us
.
Letter re: Jefferson County Position on Proposed DNR/Pope Timber Land Swap
l\fay 1, 2OD9
Page: 2
.
. To protect water quality and shellfish in Tarboo Bay, Puget Sound and Hood Canal, and to
protect eJdstjng communities and the continued viability of Port Ludlow, Jefferson County is
opposed to any swap ofDNR Parcels 5, 6. 7, 8, 9, 12, & 14 (see enclosed m.ip). unless an
enforceable agreement is put in place that prohibits an application for conversion to a non.timber
use (SUCh as mining or reSidential dewlopment) for a ~od of SO years.
. To futtber protect public health and water quality, Jefferson County also opJ;lOSllS the swap of
DNR Parcels S & 7, unless an adequate well-bead protection zone, and adequate land is provided
for a Large On-site Septio SY$WnI (LOSS) for tbeParadise Bay Community as part oftbeswap.
. Jefferson County Is open to less stringent conversion restrictions on DNR Parcels 2, 3, 10, 11 &
13 provided a enforceable agreement is put in place for all vwu,lIL DNR Paicels in.the swap
(parcels 2, 3,. 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, & 14) to guaratltee that Pope Kesources will:
o Engage. in the same forest practices followed by DNR (e.g. preserving certain large trees
from barvest, attending to habitat preservation, and exercising similar timber harvest
rotation lengths); and
o Guarantee citizen access and hunting at least equal to that currently enjoyed on DNR
forest lands.
If the Department of Natural k.esources and Pope Kesources can provide the assurances outlined above,
Jefferson County would support the ploposed land swap.
If these ~lllimces are not pr()vided by the state and Pope for any of the parcels IIlI1IIed above, Jefferson
" Counf}' must oppose the proposed swap in order to protect our delicate environment as wen as the
character and future of our community.
We h<>pe you will giw weight to our concerns and requests for assurances of the continued stewardship of
th!lSe important resource lands within our County, especially in view that seven of the parcels in question.
are County Trust ParceJs.
Administrator
Encl: Vicinity Map
Co: Jon Rose, Olympic Property Group; John Viada, DNR Olympic Region Manager; Julie Armbruster,
DNa Transactions Project Manager
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,l.etter reI Jeft'enl(lll County Posiliol'l on Proposed DNR/I"ope Timber Land Swap
May 1,2009
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Honorable Peter Goldmark
Washington State Commissioner ofPublie Lands
1111 WashiJ1gton.Street
Olympia, WA 98504-7001
Dear Peter,
1820 Jetterson Street
P.O. Box 1220
Port TOwABend, WA 98368
DavW W. SaIUvaD, DItdI:lct 2 JaJm AI:IatiD, Dfatdct 3
March 23, 2009
We thank you for your oonti11ued interest in Jefferson County. Please be aware that a friendly
welcome waits you whenever you make a visit to Port Townsend.
Commi"'~oner Austin visited you last month to .....v.ess concerns about the proposed PopelDNR land
swap. As you know, a number of our oonstituents have expressed opposition to the swap and have
communicated that opposition to us and to you. We have considered the DNR to be a good neighbor
to the County and have appreciated the availability of John Viada and AI Vaughn.
We hope that the DNR asset ma""gement plan would allow a continued presence ofDNR lands in
eastern Je.fferson County. We aie sensitive to the voice of our constituents who have expressed SUCh
strong opposition to the swap, and we Ilfe aWllre that a private COIIlpan.y has a different mission than
the DNR.
This letter is to let you know of our cona:m. Would it be possible for the DNR to include alega1ly
binding document from Pope that:
1. Would guarantee DO oonversion to teSidential or mining for 50 years;
2. Gwuaut...e that Pope will engage in the same forest practices followed by DNR, e.g. preserving
large trees after a harvest, attending to habitat preservation, a protracted timber harvest;
3. Guarantee citizen aceess and hllllting equal to that cUrrently enjoyed on DNR forest lands;
4. Guarantee well-head protection and adequate land for a large on-site septic system for the
Pamdi"" Bay Comnnmity.
W'rthout such guaranteeS, we would be opposed to the transfer ofDNR.lands to a private company.
We appnMate your wilHf1!!1"""l to hear ourconcems.
Sincerely,
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"-01111 (360Ja$5-9100 .... (360)388-9382 Jeft1Ioac@eoJefI'_--
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CC, LA LfIL-/ 1/1
Hood Canal Coalition
P.O. Box 65279
Port Ludlow, WA 98365
HEARING RECORD
Honorable Board of County Commissioners
Jefferson County
P.O. Box 1220
Port Townsend, W A 98368
AprilS, 2011
RECEIV~::;W
I\fr\ 04 -~'I
,-,.
Dear Commissioners
Ji:FFERSOf\! COUl\lfl'
COMM~SS;ONERS
We strongly support the Jefferson County proposed plan for long term
maintenance and operation of East Jefferson County forest lands.
The report "Forests for the Future - An Asset Management Strategy for State
Forestlands of East Jefferson County" describes a holistic approach to maintaining
working forest lands that protect wildlife habitat, fish and water quality.
We believe that the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is a better, more
thoughtful, manager of forest lands than private sector fox:est owners. The DNR
approach is better balanced and more careful, while protecting the public interest
and long term benefits of timber revenue and conservation.
We believe that the push for residential expansion and zoning upgrades will
increase substantially in the coming decades. DNR ownership of East Jefferson
County forest lands, when combined with "Community Forests," would be highly
effective in limiting spmwl within the Hood Canal watershed. This is most critical
in the Port Ludlow - Shine region where development pressures are the strongest.
We urge you to work diligently to maintain DNR as our best pmctice, local
foresters while also seeking funds for Community Forest using the Trust Land
Tmnsfer program.
Thank you for your service to the citizens of Jefferson County.
c/~~~
Hood C;%' Coalition
cC'. LA 4 {Wi \ \
[""']ENTERPRISE CASCADIA
--
HEARING RECORD
.
Astoria. OR
.Portkmd, OR
r~o.WA
P.rt~~ WA R~CEIV'EO
April 7, 2011 ..
Honorable Board of County Commissioners
Jefferson County ..
P.O. Box 1220
Port Townsend, W A 98368
APR 04 2011
JEFFERSON COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS
Dear Honorable Board of County Commissioners,
EnjerpJise Ca"""di'l_suppo~Jhe IQng:~ pIllntQ.<;Q.I\StlIVe the ~ furest lands 9i~_ __
JclrersOn County as described in the report Forests for the Future - An Asset Management
Strategy for State Forestlands in East Jefferson County.
.
State forestlands are dispersed widely throughout East Jefferson County and are important in
providing timber revenue to various taxing districts, for protecting fish and wildlife habitats, and
for accessible recreation and open space. State forest lands are also pillars that help hold up the
forestr:y zoning and timber land base in areas at risk of conversion for development. Instead of
trading away many of these public lands and consolidating in more remote areas, we urge the
Department of Natural Resources (ONR) to engage in helping Jefferson County strengthen the
forest land based and timber economy here.
The plan calls for most lands to continue to be managed by DNR as "working forests". Some
parcels in areas of the county with higher development pressure are proposed for Community
Forests (uDNR decides not to manage them as working forests). Some smaller parcels with
high ecological values and low potential for timber revenue are proposed for permanent
conservation through the Trust Land Transfer program. Only four small parcels, with moderate
to low habitat values and already largely surrounded by development, are proposed for suitable
exchange.
--'Entefprli;e Cascadia strongly SuppOlts-tlie PL'U'ifieOOnririerldation tliiitIJNR:invesfPiOpeiiy--
Replacement Account funds in east Jefferson County to consolidate DNR's existing holdings and
further strengthen the forest land base.
Sincerely,
~O.e~
.
Mark D. Bowman
Vice President and Senior Loan Officer
Enterprise CaSCllcHa
203 Howerton Way, 5.E.
Tel36~424265 .
P.O. Box 826
Fox 360-4554879
5emdos en Ingles y Espollol
I~, WA 98624
VlWW.sbpaC.com
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Page 1 ofl
Jeffbocc
From: Ann Sargent [asargent@jamestowntrlbe.org]
:~ ;::,APriI05,201110:09AM HEARING RECORD
Cc: Scott Chitwood; W Ron. Allen
Subject: An Asset Management Stretegy for State Forestlands of East Jefferson County
Attachments: Jefferson County DNR forest land.pdf
Honorable Board of County Commissioners
Attached find the Jamestown S'Kla11am Tribe's letter in support for the long term plan to conserve existing state forest
lands of East Jefferson County as described in the report Forests for the Future - An Asset Management Strategy for State
Forestlands of East Jefferson County.
If you have any questions please contact W. Ron Allen, Tribal ChairmanlCEO at 360-681-4621 or e-mail the Chairman at
raIlen@iamestowntribe.org.
Thank you,
Ann
AVIN1ISc;r..y~
executive Assistant to Tribal Chair/CEO W. Ron Allen
Jamestown S'K1allam Tribe
1033 Old Blyn Hwy
Sequim, Wa 98382
ph: 360-681-4661
fax: 360-681-4643
e-mail: asarqentlliliamestowntrlbe.orn
4/512011
-.,;.-..-
JAMESTOWN S'KLALLAM TRIBE
ll)B 011;1 Blyn HiglT\\'aY, Si;>quim, WA 9f1)82
,
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l&O1603-1109 FAX 360J681-4643
April 6, 20 II
Honorable Board of County Commissioners
Jefferson County
PO Box 1220
Port Townsend, W A 98368
(e-mail toieffboccralco.iefferson.wa.us)
HEARING RECORD
RE: An Asset Management Strategy for State Forestlands of East Jefferson Connty
Dear Honorable Board of County Commissioners,
The Jamestown S'KIallam Tribe supports the long term plan to conserve existing state forest lands of East
Jefferson County as described in the report Forests for the Future - An Asset Management Strategy for State
Forestlands of East Jefferson Cotmty. The TnOO feels that should DNR trade its forest lands located near
population centers to private interests the potential of these forest lands to be quickly harvested and developed for
some other use is significant
Because eastern Jefferson County contains the natoral resources reserved by the TnOO through its treaty with the
United States, the State of Washington is our co-manager in the protection and conservation of these resources.
The level of protection for habitat that supports our fish and wild1ife resources is much higher on state DNR land
than it is on private forestland. The Tnbe wishes to continue protecting the cultural resource value that presently
exists on DNR lands. We have a working relationship with DNR for the protection of cultura11y significant trees
for example.
State forestlands are currently dispersed widely throughout East Jefferson County and provide tax revenue to the
County, schools, and local fire districts. Local tax revenue will be lost ifDNR land is consolidated to other
portions of the county. Existing DNR land provides high quality, productive, fish and wildlife habitat that our
tnoal citizens depend on for hunting opportunities. State forest lands anchor forestry in areas at risk of conversion
for development.
The Public Lands Group (pLG) created a high quality evaluation of the unique timber, habitat, and recreational
values of each parcel to identifY the best strategies for long term management. Their group includes citizens from
Jefferson County with expertise in furestry, habitat and conservation. The group volunteered hundreds of hours to
develop this plan.
Instead transferring DNR land, the Asset Management Strategy recommends to place the land into a Community
Forest category, where forest thinning is the primary managemeut tooL We would also like to work with the DNR
on these properties to ensure that deer and elk habitat, where appropriate, are enhanced. This strategy also
supports the DNR mandste to preserve forest land in urbanizing areas.
icJ~' 8?\.- ()I~
W. RonA~hair/CEO
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Page 1 of!
Jeffbocc
From: Denise Pranger [denise@nnrg.org]
Sent: Thursday, April 07, 20115:20 PM
To: jeffbocc
Subject: FW: Forasts for the Future An Asset management Strategy for state lands in E Jeffco
Attachments: NNRG support letter E Jeff Forast Plan.doc
HEARING RECORD
See attached,
Denise Pranger
Executive Director
Northwest Natural Resource Group
Only phone number (360) 379-9421 x2
www.nnrg.org
RECEIVED
APR 08 2011
JEFFERSON COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS
4/8/2011
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~... .~I
Northwest Natural Resource Group
promotlng a sustainable environmerrtally sound economy for multiple generatIons
,
April 7lh, 2011
Honorable Board of County Commissioners
Jefferson County
PO Box 1220
Port Townsend, W A 98368
ieftbocc@,co.iefferson.wa.us
HEARING RECORD
Dear Honorable Board of County Commissioners,
Northwest Natural Respurce Group (NNRG) wishes to express our support for the long term plan
to conserve State forest lands of East Jefferson County as described in the report Forests for the
Future - An Asset Management Strategy for State F()restlands of East Jefferson County
developed by the Public Lands Group.
State owned forestlands are widely dispersed throughout East Jefferson County and provide an
important anchor for the timber economy in the region, as well as providing vital wildlife habitat,
carbon sequestration, recreation, and tourism/aesthetic value. We are very concerned that
trading these lands to consolidate more remote holdings will lead to significantly increased
development in the area and significantly decrease economic opportunities relating to timber
management in the region.
NNRG has been working for several years in the area to encourage sustainable forest
management and to develop new markets and incentives for small forest landowners. DNR
lands provide a key timber supply anchor for smaller landowners and for mills and
manufacturers. Without continued active management ofDNR lands the timber supplied by the
many other distributed smaIl landowners may not be enough to support the mills and
infrastructure we have worked so hard to preserve and stimulate. As former trust lands become
developed it become increasingly difficult for neighbors of the developments to continue to
harvest as well as noise concerns, issues with logging trucks, etc increase and remove any
remaining "social" license for private landowners to harvest. NNRG applauds recent efforts by
DNR and local co=unity groups to embrace Forest Stewardship Council certification as a
means of ensuring sustainability of forest lands and we sincerely hope this sort of proposed land
trade will not jeopardize those environmental and economic gains.
The Forests for the Future plan, developed by the Public Lands Group (pLG), including citizens
of Jefferson County with expertise in forestry, habitat and conservation, addresses DNR's
concem with continuing to manaee smaller parcels in areas with increasing development
Northwest Natural Resource Group . P.O. Box 1067 . Port Townsend, W A 98368
Tel.360.379.9421 . Email.info@m:rrg.org . Web. www.nnrg.org
-1-
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pressure. The plan evaluates the unique timber, habitat, and recreational values of each parcel to
identify the best strategies for long term man'lgement. We support this plan as a viable
alternative to preserve our timber infrastructure and economy in a long term sustainable manner.
We also support the PLG's recommendation that DNR invest Property Replacement Account
funds in east Jefferson County to consolidate DNR's existing holdings and further strengthen the
forest land base.
Please contact us if you would like to discuss this issue or any of our own work in the area
further.
Sincerely,
~ __n
C)J.
9
~
Denise Pranger
Executive Director
Northwest Natural Resource Group . P.O. Box 1067 . Port Townseud, W A 98368
Tel. 360.379.9421 . Email.infO@Ullrg.Org . Web. WWW.llllrg.org
-2-
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jeffbocc
From: John & Nancy Woolley [woolley@tfon.com]
Sent: Saturday. April 09. 20111:14 PM
To: Jeffbocc
Cc: cg@conniegallanlcom
Attachments: Forest-ProposaLPLG_040811.pdf
4/11/2011
HEARlNG-RECORD
Page 1 of!
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Forest
Coalition
~---=-:::;::--=-'--:::::-:-'::=::::=-:-:-=_;":':=:::-:-::=_-..c__=~~.'-_-~- -, _. _ ___
Protecting and restoring our Olympic forest and aquatic ecosystems
April 8, 2011
Jefferson County Board of County Commissioners
Port Townsend, Washington
Dear Commissioners:
Olympic Forest Coalillon, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the protection of the Olympic National
Forest and aquatic ecosystems, strongly supports the long term plan to conserve the state forest lands
of East Jefferson County as described in the report Forests for the Future - An Asset Management
strategy for State Forestlands of East Jefferson County .
state fonest lands are dispersed widely throughout East Jefferson County and are Important in
providing timber revenue to the various taxing districts, for protecting fish and wildlife habitats, and for
accessible recreation and open space. State forest lands are also pillars that help hold up the forestry
zoning and timber land base in areas at risk of conversion for development. Instead of trading away
many of these public lands and consolidating in more remote areas, we urge DNR to engage In helping
Jefferson County strengthen the forest land bese and timber economy here.
The plan, developed by the Public Lands Group, including cillzens of Jefferson County with expertise in
fonestry, habitat and conservation, addresses DNR's concern with continuing to manage smaller
parcels in areas with increasing development pressure. The plan evaluates the unique timber, habitat,
and recreational values of each parcel to Identify the best strategies for long term management.
The plan calls for most lands to continue to be managed by DNR as "working forests". Some parcels in
areas of the county with higher development pressure are proposed as Community Forests If DNR
does not want to continue to manage them as working forests. Some smaller parcels with high
ecological values and low potential for timber revenue are proposed for permanent conservation
through the Trust land Transfer program. Only four small parcels, with moderate to low habitat values
and already largely surrounded by development, are proposed as suitable for exchange.
We also strongly support the PlG's recommendation that DNR invest Property Replacement Account
funds in East Jefferson County to consolidate DNR's existing holdings and further strengthen the forest
land base.
Sincerely,
~~~
John W00IIey, PreskIenI
Olympic Fomst CoaIltion
PO Box 461 . Qui/cane, WA 98376
www.olymplcforest.org.info@olympicforest.org
CC. CA 4/11 / I D
~
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Paul McCollum [paulm@pgslnsn.us]
Monday, April 11, 2011 7:14AM
jeffbocc
East Jefferson County Forest Plan
PGST support Jeff cnty Forest Plan.pdt; paulm.vcf
H~
)effbocc
Attachments:
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PGST support Jeff paulm.vcf (438 B)
cnty Forest ...
Please note our attached comments in support of the East Jefferson
Forest for the Future plan.
County,
Thanks
Paul
Paul McCollum
Natural Resources Director
Port Gamble S'Klallam Tribe
Phone: 360 297-6237
Cell: 360 731-7435
Fax: 360 297-4791
E-mail:paulm@pgst.nsn.us
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PORT GAMBLE S'KLALLAM TRIBE
NATURAL RESOURCES DEPARTMENT
31912 Little Boston Rd. NE - Kingston, W A 98346
Honorable Board of County Commissioners
Jefferson County
PO Box 1220
Port Townsend, W A 98368
(e-mailedtojefibocc@co.jefferson.wa.us)
Aprilll, 2011
Dear Honorable Board of County Commissioners,
The Port Gamble S'l{IAllAm Tribe strongly supports the long term plan to conserve the
state forest lands of East Jefferson County as described in the report Forests for the
Future - An Asset Management Strategy for State Forestlands of East Jefferson County .
State forestlands are dispersed widely throughout East Jefferson County and are
important in providing timber revenue to the various taxing districts, for protecting fish
and wildlife habitats, and for accessible recreation and open space. State forest lands are
also pillars that help hold up the forestry zoning and timber land base in areas at risk of
conversion for development. Instead oftnlding away many of these public lands and
consolidating in more remote areas, we urge the Department ofNaturaI Resources (DNR)
to engage in helping Jefferson County strengthen the forest land base and timber
economy here.
The plan, developed by the Public Lands Group (PLO), including citizens of Jefferson
County with expertise in forestry, habitat and conservation, addresses DNR's concern
with continuing to manage smaller parcels in areas with increasing development pressore.
The plan evaluates the unique timber, habitat, and recreational values of each parcel to
identify the best strategies for long term mAnAg=ent.
The plan calls for most lands to continue to be managed by DNR as "working forests".
Some parcels in areas of the county with higher development pressure are proposed as
Community Forests (ifDNR decides not to manage them as working forests). Some
smaller parcels with high ecological values and low potential for timber revenue are
proposed for permanent conservation through the Trust Land Transfer program. Only
four small parcels, with modemte to low habitat values and already largely surrounded by
development, are proposed as suitable for exchange.
We also strongly support the PLO's recommendation that DNR invest Property
Replacement Account funds in east Jefferson County to consolidate DNR's existing
holdings and further strengthen the forest land base.
Sin~
~~Ji71 -_
Director, NatUral Resources Department
Phone: (360) 297-4792 Fax: (360) 297-4791
-. #~--"'11'
"
Jeffbocc
Fun Name:
Last Name:
First Name:
Job TItle:
Department:
Company:
Other Addreee:
Business:
Mobile:
Business Fax:
E-mail:
E-mail Display As:
Paul McCollum
McCollum
Paul
Natural Resources Director
Natural Resources Dapartment
Port Gamble S'Klallam Tribe
31912 LIttle Boston Ftd
KIngston, Washington 98346
360297-e237
360737-7435
360 2974791
paulm@pgslnsn.us
paulm@pgslnsn.us
1
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.
HEARING RECORD
Page 1 of!
,
Jeffbocc
From: John & Nancy Woolley [woolley@lfon.com]
Sent: Monday, April 11 , 2011 2:58 PM
To: jeffbocc
Attachments: Forest-ProposaLPLG_040811 (4) (2).pdf
Please attach to the previous email.
4/Il/20 11
1'!
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Iymplc
Forest
Coalition
~ and ~lori;gouroTYinpi~~t~d;;q~;rtJ~ ecosystems
April 8, 2011
Jefferson County Board of County Commissioners
Port Townsend, Washington
Dear Commissioners:
Olympic Forest Coalition, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the protection of the Olympic National
Forest and aquatic ecosystems, strongly supports the long term plan to conserve the state forest lands
of East Jefferson County as described in the report Forests for the Future - An Asset Management
strategy for state Forestlands of East Jefferson County .
State forest lands are dispersed widely throughout East Jefferson County and are important in
providing timber revenue to the various taxing districts, for protecting fish and wildlife habitats, and for
accasslble recreation and open spaca. State forest lands are also pillars that help hold up the forestry
zoning and timber land base In areas at risk of conversion for development Instead of trading away
many of these public lands and consolidating in more remote areas, we urge DNR to engage in helping
Jefferson County strengthen the forest land base and timber economy here.
The plan, developed by the Public Lands Group, Including citizens of Jefferson County with expertise In
forestry, habitat and conservation, addresses DNR's concern with continuing to manage smaller
parcels In areas with increasing development pressure. The plan evaluates the unique timber, habitat,
and recreational values of each parcel to Identify the best strategies for long term management.
The plan calls for most lands to continue to be managed by DNR as "working forests'. Some parcels in
areas of the county with higher development pressure are proposed as Community Forests if DNR
does not want to continue to manage them as working forests. Some smaller parcals with high
ecological values and low potential for timber revenue are proposed for permanent conservation
through the Trust Land Transfer program. Only four small parcels, with moderate to low habitat values
and already largely surrounded by development, are proposed as suitable for exchange.
We also strongly support the PLG's recommendation that DNR invest Property Replacement Account
funds in East Jefferson County to consolidate DNR's existing holdings and further strengthen the forest
land base.
Sincerely,
~~
OlympIc Forest CoaIlI/on
PO Box 461 . Quilcene, WA 98376
WWW.olympicforest.org.lnfo@olympicforest.org
J
. ~.'>-~
".1.3'--'
Page 1 ofl
jeffbocc
HEAmNG-RECORD
From: John & Nancy Woolley [woolley@tfon.com]
Sent: Monday, April 11, 20112:26 PM
To: jeffbocc
Cc: cg@conniegallant.com
Attachments: Forest-ProposaLPLG_040811 (4).pdf
OFCO letter on land exchange.
4/11/2011
j
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..:J....~~.,I-~ -
.
~
Iymplc
Forest
Coalition
Protecting and restoa;,g;J;Oi~';i~furoot~~d~q~'atic eccsystems
April 8, 2011
Jefferson County Board of County Commissioners
Port Townsend, Washington
Dear Commissioners:
Olympic Forest Coalition, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the protection of the Olympic National
Forest and aquatic ecosystems, strongly supports the long term plan to conserve the state forest lands
of East Jefferson County as described in the report Forests for the Future - An Asset Management
Strategy for state Forestlands of East Jefferson County .
State forest lands are dispersed widely throughout East Jefferson County and are important in
providing timber revenue to the various taxing districts, for protecting fish and wildlife habitats, and for
accessible recreation and open space. State forest lands are also pillars that help hold up the forestry
zoning and timber land base in areas at risk of conversion for development. Instead of trading away
many of these pUblic lands and consolidating in more remote areas, we urge DNR to engage in helping
Jefferson County strengthen the forest land base and timber economy here.
The plan, developed by the Public Lands Group, including citizens of Jefferson County with expertise In
forestry, habitat and conservation, addresses DNR's concern with continuing to manage smaller
parcels in areas with Increasing development pressure. The plan evaluates the unique timber, habitat,
and recreational values of each parcel to identify the best strategies for long term management.
The plan calls for most lands to continue to be managed by DNR as "working forests'. Some parcels in
areas of the county with higher development pressure are proposed as Community Forests if DNR
does not want to continue to manage them as working forests. Some smaller parcels with high
ecological values and low potential for timber revenue are proposed for permanent conservation
through the Trust Land Transfer program. Only four small parcels, with moderate to low habitat values
and already largely surrounded by development, are proposed as suitable for exchange.
We also strongly support the PLG's recommendation that DNR invest Property Replacement Account
funds in East Jefferson County to consolidate DNR's existing holdings and further strengthen the forest
land base.
Sincerely,
A~~
John WooIIay, Pres!denl
OlympIc FonlsI CoaIlllon
PO Box 461 . QuUcene, WA 98376
WWW.olymPlcforest.org.lnfo@olympicforestorg
1033 Old BIyn HIghway, Sequim, WA 98382
April 6, 2011
~1ee E~Vl!D643
Honorable Board of County Commissioners . APR 1 3 2011
~~tr;:;~~ HEARING RECORn
PortTownsend,WA98368 . 'dEFFERSON COUNTY
(e-mail tojeftbocc@co.iefferson.wa.us) CO M MISSIO N E A S
RE: An Asset Management Strategy for State Forestlands of East Jefferson County
.~_~e" "~H()~unibieljoliid OfCOunty -cOnumSSlonerS;-----""'='c-~..~"~'~-
.-~---'.~':..,~_.-
The Jamestown S'KIalIam Tribe supports the long term plan to conserve existing state forest lands of East
Jefferson County as described in the report Forests for the Future - AlI Asset Mtmagement Strategy for State
Forestlands of East Jefferson County. The Tribe feels that should DNR trade its forest lands located near
population centers to private interests the potential of these forest lands to be quickly harvested and .
developed for some other use is significant.
Becmjse eastern Jefferson County contains the naturaI resources reserved by the Tn"be through its treaty with
the United States, the State of Washington is our co-manager in the protection and Conservation of these
resoUrces. The level of protection for habitat that supports our fish anci wildUfecresources is much higher on
state DNR land than it is on private forestland. The Tribe wishes to continue-jirOteciing the culturBI resource
value that presently exists on DNR lands. We have a working relationship with DNR for the protection of
culturally significant trees for example.
State forestlands are currently dispersed widely throughout East Jefferson County and provide tax revenue to
the County, schools, and local fire districts. Local tax revenue will be lost if DNR land is consolidated to
mher portions of the county. Existing DNR land provides high quality, productive, fish and wildlife habitat
that our Tribal citizens depend on for hunting opportunities. State forest lands anchor foreatry in areas at risk
of conversion fur development.
, ".Th~c~~.G<.,.m,a.. hj~h'lmif~'eWlullUOn-oftli" lliiiliuetftiifnit,habffiif; artcr"
nicreatioriaI values of each parcel to identifY the best strategies for long termmimagement. Theit group
includes citize1is from Jefferson County with expertise in foreatry, habitat and conservation. The group
volunteered hundreds of hours to develop this plan. - . .
._---"""",-~
Instead of transferring DNR land, the Asset Management Strategy recommends to place the land into a
Community Forest category, where forest thinning is the primary management tool. We would also like to
work with the DNR on these properties to ensure that deer and elk habitat, where appropriate. are enhanced.
This strategy also supports the ONR_ n;umdate to preserve forest land in urbanizing areas.
Please feel free to contaCt me by phone at 360-681-4621or bye-mail me at ralJen@jamestowutrihe.ol1'-
S. -I - .
mcere y; .. _u . . .. .... .
pU.~alti
i "
W. Ron Allen, Tn'bal Chair/CEO
..,. - ~
Page 1 of!
jeffbocc
From: Bob [w1ndenergy@olypen.com]
Sent: Wednesday, April 13, 20113:55 PM
To: jeffbocc
Subject: Transfer ot DNR lands
Attachments: Jefferson County letter supporting ratention ot DNR lands. pdt
HEAlrtNG NEeON/}
Re: DNR land transfers.
Please see attached. (FYI, the Sierra Club has more than 430 members in
Jefferson County, and we have a sincere interest in this issue.)
Bob Lynette, Co-Chair
North Olympic Group of the Sierra Club
email: windenergy@olypen.com
Mobile: (360) 461-0761
4/14/2011
-- - ~J
HEARING RECORD
SIERRA
CLUB
North Olympic Group of the Sierra Club
P. O. Box 714
Carlsborg, W A 98324
fOUNDED t89~
RECE~VEg
Sent via email
April 13, 2011
APR 14 2011
JI:FFERSON COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS
Jefferson County Board of County Commissioners
PO Box 1220
Port Townsend, W A 98368
Re: Transfer ofDNR lands
On behalf of the North Olympic Group of the Sierra Club, we support the long term
plan to conserve the state forest lands of East Jefferson County as described in the
report, "Forests for the Future - An Asset Management Strategy for State Forestlands
of East Jefferson County". We recognize the efforts by the Public Lands Group, which
includes citizens ofJefferson County. We note the involvement of people with
expertise in forestry, habitat and conservation.
The plan calls for most lands in East Jefferson County to continue to be mAnaged
by DNR, and we support this concept. We appreciate the fact that the plan addresses
DNR's concern with continuing to mAnAge smaller parcels in areas with increasing
development pressure by evaluating the unique timber, habitat, and recreational values
of each parcel to identifY the best strategies for long term management. Some parcels in
areas of the county with higher development pressure are proposed as CommUnity
Forests ifDNR does not want to continue to manage them as working forests. We
support this approach. However, land conversion is a major concern of ours. As East
Jefferson's population grows, there is increasing pressure for conversion, particularly in
areas already surrounded by development. The management plan identifies
approximately 251 acres that could be exchanged with private properties. We would
support these exchanges.
We urge the Jefferson County Board of County Commissioner to endorse the
proposed asset management strategy plan submitted by the Public Lands Group.
Respectfully,
Bob Lynette and John Woolley
Co-Chairs, North Olympic Group of the Sierra Club
-