Shoreline environment designations are assigned to shoreline areas according to their environmental function, existing land uses, and the goals and aspirations of the community. Designations in Skamania County were developed during the community involvement process for the SMP, which included meetings with an advisory committee and public open houses. Generally speaking, the environment designations protect more pristine areas and direct development to already developed or cleared shorelines. 

The shoreline areas of the county are divided into five shoreline environment designations. Shoreline environment designations are similar to zoning in that certain uses are permitted, prohibited, or require a conditional use permit.

• Aquatic: This designation is intended to protect, restore, and manage the unique characteristics and resources of shoreline areas waterward of the OHWM.
• Natural: This designation is intended to protect shoreline areas that are relatively free of development.
• Rural Conservancy: This designation is intended to support lower-intensity, resource-based uses, such as agriculture, forestry, or recreation.
• Shoreline Residential: This designation is intended to accommodate residential development and appurtenant structures (e.g., a detached garage).
• High Intensity: This designation is intended to support high-intensity, water-oriented commercial, transportation, and industrial uses.

Shoreline Environment Designation Maps

The approximate shoreline jurisdictional area and the Shoreline Environment Designations are delineated on a series of maps in Appendix A of the SMP. These designations can also be viewed in an interactive online map. Please note that the boundaries of the shoreline jurisdiction on the maps are approximate. The extent of the shoreline jurisdiction is determined on a site-by-site basis based on adopted definitions and technical criteria.