Island County commissioners approved an agreement with Environmental Sciences Associates last week to assist in the completion of the critical areas ordinance, as part of the 2016 Comprehensive Plan Update.

To pay for the assistance, the county is using a Department of Commerce National Estuary Program grant not to exceed $250,000.

As part of the Puget Sound Watershed Protection and Restoration program, the funding will allow county staff to review and revise wetland and critical areas protections into a single cohesive polity.

ESA will be the lead consultant supported by sub-consultants Pacific Groundwater Group and the Stratum Group.