When it comes to safety in terms of crime, we probably all agree that law enforcement must shield us from threats of murder, rape, theft and burglary.
But when it comes to the environment, we continually miss the mark. Strong laws on the books should protect us from degradation of our most precious life-protecting resources, like clean water. However, incremental measures rob us of the same level of protections we have with other laws protecting our welfare.
Hence this story, but just one of many.
This week, the Snohomish County Council is slated to approve the final plat for a “Street of Dreams” development in Paradise Valley of rural south Snohomish County. Citizens have advocated caution over placing 61 homes just above their water source. They dread septic effluent will accumulate nitrates at toxic levels into wetlands that supply private and public wells with clean water. Experts predict these Street of Dreams, Green-Built homes could put their own drinking water at risk. So what is being done?
Embedded in the final plat we find septic drain fields allowed within the native reserves set aside to protect critical aquifer recharge – a recommendation from the County Planning Department, under the direction of Planning Director Craig Ladiser who works for County Executive Aaron Reardon.
Let’s be clear! No laws allow drain fields in wetland buffers. Why is this happening? Why is the county not doing its job? Most citizens are never aware of these constant whittlings away at permit level requirements, without incredible involvement.
As growth continues, 300,000 or more people in the next 10 to 20 years, are we going to need less clean water? The public must demand that our elected officials stop this insanity. Our lives depend on protection at all levels, whether it is in our face or hidden in development permits.
Kristin Kelly
Futurewise and
Pilchuck Audubon Society
Snohomish
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