Establishing New Aquatic Reserves

Aquatic reserves can be located on aquatic lands throughout the state. Each reserve must address environmental, scientific, and/or educational needs. Establishing new aquatic reserves is a lengthy process that allows for scientific scrutiny and extensive public input. Before sites can be formally designated they must be properly evaluated, and management plans must be developed with the input and involvement of stakeholders; citizens; and local, state and federal agencies.

DNR's Aquatic Reserves Program has developed materials to help guide this process:

New Aquatic Reserves Proposed in 2008

DNR recently solicited proposals for new Aquatic Reserves. By January 2008, the Aquatic Reserves Program had received nominations for eight environmental, scientific, and educational reserves throughout Puget Sound. These nominations were submitted by a wide range of entities, including individuals, university professors, non-profit organizations, and government agencies.

After internal review of the eight nominations, DNR staff recommended to the Commissioner of Public Lands that proponents of six of the eight sites be invited to submit full proposals (detailed in this recommendation by the Commissioner of Public Lands). By the deadline in May 2008, DNR accepted proposals for new aquatic reserves at Nisqually Reach, Colvos Passage, and Smith/Minor Islands and Protection Island. These sites are described in the Summary of Current Aquatic Reserve Nominations.

DNR is now reviewing these applications and has started the extensive public involvement process, working with site proponents to organize public outreach on each proposed site and solicit members to serve on the Technical Advisory Committee. Members of this committee will evaluate all proposals and make formal recommendations to DNR on which sites should be proposed for aquatic reserve designation. Public outreach and involvement also provides an opportunity for the public and other stakeholders to partner with DNR in developing and implementing site-specific management plans.   

Nomination Process and Timeline

Aquatic Reserve Program Proposal Process