CLIPA White Paper

CLIPA believes that a public/private partnership is urgently needed to create, coordinate, and oversee a comprehensive management program that incorporates the entire Deschutes Watershed, including Capitol Lake and lower Budd Inlet.

 

Our intent is not to create another “layer” of bureaucracy, and it is hoped such a forum could facilitate more innovative ideas and solutions. This is integral to the future interests of the State of Washington, local governments, and all citizens.

 

We further believe that the time to act is now with development and implementation of a two, ten and fifty-year plan. This plan should be guided by a “coordinating board” of affected parties that has the direct responsibility to ensure that the plan is designed, funded, and implemented with a balanced approach to address multiple statewide interests.

 

Inaction is not an acceptable option; and reversion to tidal mud flats is just that – going backwards toward problems we worked hard to overcome.

 

By moving forward with a 21st century vision, and embracing ecosystem principles and repurposing Capitol Lake for its aesthetic values, as a sediment trap, and as a community gathering place, we will benefit all with immediate and long-term benefits.