The purpose of this study is to conduct a baseline inventory and characterization of conditions relevant to the shoreline resources of the Pierce County. It is a DRAFT available for review and comment. The deadline for comments is December 19, 2007. Final review of the entire Shoreline Master Program update, including public testimony on this report, will take place in 2008. This study and analysis was prepared by ESA Adolfson in collaboration with Pierce County Planning and Land Services and with technical assistance from Parametrix, Coastal Geologic Services and Shannon & Wilson.
This study characterizes both ecosystem-wide processes and how these processes relate to shoreline functions. Processes and functions are evaluated at two different scales: (1) a watershed or landscape scale, and (2) a shoreline reach scale. The purpose of the watershed or landscape scale characterization is to identify ecosystem processes that shape shoreline conditions and to determine which processes have been altered or impaired. The intent of the shoreline reach scale inventory and characterization is to: (1) identify how existing conditions in or near the shoreline have responded to process alterations; and (2) determine the effects of the alteration on shoreline ecological functions. These findings will help provide a framework for future updates to the County's shoreline management policies and regulations.
A very limited number of printed copies are available at Pierce County Annex, but an electronic version on compact disc can be provided by mail. Use the Submit Comments link on this page to request a CD and include a mailing address. There are a number of appendices in Excel format that include data sources and other information that have not been included here, but are available upon request. There are a few parts of the document that will be added soon, in particular Chapter 8 which is currently in outline form.
Draft Inventory and Characterization Report
Links to Appendix A (the maps)
Shorelines of the State, Map 1
Marine Shorelines, Map 2
Freshwater Shorelines, Map 3
WRIAS and Basins, Map 4
Landcover, Map 5
Geology, Map 6
Soils, Map 7
Topography and Hydrology, Map 8
Hydrology - Important Areas, Map 9
Hydrology Alterations, Map 10
Impervious Surface, Map 11
Forest Area, Map 12
Sediment - Important Areas, Map 13
Sediment Alterations, Map 14
Water Quality - Important Areas, Map 15
Water Quality Alterations, Map 16
Organics, Map 17
Shoreline Inventory Areas, Map 18
Existing Land Use, Map 19
Future Land Use, Map 20
Marine Shoreline Reaches, Map 21
Eastern Freshwater Reaches, Map 22
Western Freshwater Reaches, Map 23
Marine Reaches - Existing Designations, Map 24
Eastern Freshwater Reaches - Existing Designations, Map 25
Western Freshwater Reaches - Existing Designations, Map 26
