OLYMPIA - The Washington Department of Ecology is developing a statewide plan to better manage wetlands, and public input is encouraged.

Ecology's proposed plan includes developing a statewide wetland monitoring program and assessment strategy. The plan establishes a statewide structure that better protects and restores Washington's wetlands and streamlines the permitting process.

Ecology worked with tribes, local governments, state agencies and conservation districts to gather input for the proposed plan. The public is now encouraged to review plan and provide comments

The proposed plan is available for review on Ecology's website or in person at Ecology Headquarters, 300 Desmond Drive in Lacey. Citizens also can request a mailed copy of the plan by calling Susan Buis at 360-407-7653.

You may send comments through Dec. 31 to Susan Buis at susan.buis@ecy.wa.gov, or mail to Susan Buis, Washington Department of Ecology, P.O. Box 47600, Olympia, WA 98504-7600.

Ecology is hosting an informational webinar from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10,to provide more details on the plan. To sign up for the webinar, contact Susan Buis at 360-407-7653 or susan.buis@ecy.wa.gov.