Is the site a good example (relatively undisturbed) of representative native habitat?
The habitats found within the proposed site (eelgrass and kelp beds, rocky intertidal shorelines, tidal marshes, etc.) are all representative of native habitat. Since European settlement began in 1850, agricultural practices, logging, the lime industry, overfishing, and shoreline development have altered the natural environment. Recent evaluations of the nearshore and marine habitats of the San Juan region have determined these areas to be in relatively good condition (PSAT 2005; Shared Strategy 2005). Despite this, threats to the environment persist (see Risks to the ecosystem or feature of interest, page 15). 2. Does the site contain representative habitats not otherwise protected in the network of protected areas or aquatic reserves? In July 2007, a glass sponge reef was located off the Washington coast near Grays Harbor. These reefs serve to protect zooplankton, and provide critical nursery habitat for rockfish and other species (Island Tides 2006). This species is among the most p
