35.15.160 Policies.
(1) Forest practices are essential to the County’s long-term economic health. Forest lands should be reserved for long-term forest management and uses that are compatible with forest management.
(2) Clallam County should rely on the Forest Practices Act (Chapter 76.09 RCW), its implementing rules, and the 1999 Forest and Fish Report and the Forest Practices Habitat Conservation Plan as adequate management of commercial forest uses within shoreline jurisdiction, unless or until those lands are converted to nonforest uses. (WAC 173-26-241(3)(e))
(3) Review conversions of forest lands to nonforestry uses for compliance with this Program. Forest practices conversions and other Class IV – general forest practices should also:
(a) Maintain natural surface and groundwater movement patterns and protect the quality of surface and groundwater;
(b) Minimize damage to fish and wildlife species and terrestrial, wetland, and aquatic habitats; and
(c) Maintain or improve the quality of soils and minimize erosion.
(4) Forest practices conversions and other Class IV – general forest practices on slopes that are steep or subject to sliding, erosion, or high water table, should use best management practices to minimize damage to shorelands and water bodies, and adjacent properties.