Tumwater enters fourth phase of habitat conservation plan

Tumwater City Council has made a pivotal decision in local environmental conservation by approving a contract with ICF Jones & Stokes LLC to progress the fourth phase of the Bush Prairie Habitat Conservation Plan. The council authorized Mayor Debbie Sullivan to sign the agreement during a meeting on February 18, 2025, with a total budget of $509,000 primarily funded by a $410,000 grant from the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service. This strategic plan allows the city to issue development permits in areas that are home to endangered species, such as the Olympia pocket gopher and the Oregon spotted frog.

To comply with the grant's matching fund requirement, Tumwater partnered with the Port of Olympia to share the $149,500 needed. Planning Manager Brad Medrud confirmed that the team is on schedule to complete the draft plan this year, with an aim to initiate the national review process soon after. The last draft was published in February 2023 and is currently available for public access at bushprairiehcp. org, where it will be updated to incorporate feedback from the U. S.

Fish and Wildlife Service. This conservation initiative not only aims to protect vital species but also facilitates sustainable development practices in the region. The collaboration between local government and wildlife agencies underscores Tumwater's commitment to balancing growth with environmental stewardship.