06/19/2007: "Council Signs Transborder Island Agreement"

The Islands Trust, British Columbia and San Juan County, Washington, representing the interests of more than 642 islands within the Howe Sound, Georgia Basin and Puget Sound, have renewed their "Transborder Agreement" ..

The Islands Trust is the local government responsible for land use planning and regulations for 470 islands situated in the Georgia Basin and Howe Sound.

“Our islands share airspace, watersheds and a marine environment,” said Kim Benson, Islands Trust Council Chair. “Within and immediately surrounding these islands, the population is expected to increase from six to 8.5 million by 2010. We believe that growth and the associated environmental issues transcend physical and political boundaries and that sharing information and coordinating activities among all levels of government, island communities and other organizations is crucial to addressing these issues.”

“Managing the projected growth and its impacts will require timely development and implementation of effective strategies, while preserving and protecting the unique qualities of these islands,” said Bob Myhr, San Juan County Council Chair. “This agreement recognizes our spirit of partnership and friendship in meeting the challenges ahead.”

The two agencies share common values, such as protecting significant terrestrial and marine environmental features, preserving the unique quality of life on the islands, managing the impact of population growth and development in a manner consistent with the values of island communities and encouraging island communities to achieve and maintain a viable economy.

The agreement focuses on identifying current and emerging transboundary issues; sharing information; undertaking research and policy development projects; promoting communications and public education; and, supporting cooperative initiatives with other organizations, government agencies and the private sector.