I. A. Best Available Science |
This summary of the best available science (BAS) is the foundation of the Nearshore Assessment. The goal of this document is to summarize the existing nearshore scientific literature as it relates to the environment of Bainbridge Island. Topics include nearshore species, habitats, functions, and processes, as well as how human activities might affect nearshore systems. Because this project will provide a management basis for City regulations, this document meets the legal requirement established under the Growth Management Act (WAC 365-195-900 through 365-195-925) to use BAS when revising comprehensive plans and development regulations. The requirement includes definitive standards as to what constitutes BAS and who qualifies as an expert. The material presented here, as well as the consultants and technical advisors working on this project, meet these standards.
It should be noted that best available science is just that, best available, and includes only the scientific knowledge and resource information available at this time. By its nature, this summary document is not independently exhaustive. It was intended that this document rely and build upon other recent and more extensive BAS projects, in addition to available local scientific information, to focus on the environment and human activities specific to Bainbridge Island. It should also be noted that the Nearshore Assessment is expected to produce more detailed and updated information than is presented in this BAS document. Forthcoming documents from the Nearshore Assessment project will be based upon the information presented here, but will also depart from this document with new knowledge, data, and professional analysis.
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