Comment Now on the Deer Lagoon Draft Comprehensive Plan!

By Carlos Andersen

Dear Whidbey Audubon Members,

I’d like to share some concerns regarding the recently released draft/proposed Island County Comprehensive Plan updates, and for me personally, how items in the “Parks” section relate to Deer Lagoon Preserve. 

Two of the issues that I have consistently requested be addressed were not changed in the draft plan:

• Where Deer Lagoon (County-owned portion) is mentioned, the word “Preserve” needs to be added

• One map in the plan consistently shows the County-owned portion of Deer Lagoon (Preserve) as providing public water and beach access. This is incorrect and encourages the public to enter not only sensitive habitats but also culturally significant sites. This also encourages the public to enter private property and to leave the established two trails, causing damage. 

There are many issues in the “Parks” section that need addressing and could be commented on. The Deer Lagoon Preserve Advocacy page on our website provides guidance on issues to be commented on. Pick an issue you are passionate about at Deer Lagoon Preserve (or elsewhere) and please comment using the Draft Comprehensive Plan Comment Form on the county website. Comments could include just the two issues noted above. You can also ask that the County adopt the “draft” management plan and the recommendations within.  In June we provided the “draft ” management plan to the County. 

We are in the last legs of commenting on the Comprehensive Plan updates before they are implemented and cover the next 25 years. The next review of the plan is ten years from now! This is the critical time to act and our last chance to comment on this draft. Please take a moment to share your thoughts and suggestions with the County.

With much gratitude, Carlos Andersen