Lakes Resources

Pierce County Resources

• Pierce County Shoreline Master Program. Local municipalities may have their own Shoreline Master Program
• Pierce County Noxious Weed Control Board provides information on plant identification and proper removal techniques
• Critical Areas Ordinance in Pierce County code - Title 18E 

Washington State Resources

Many agencies have a role regarding lakes, depending on where the lake is located and the kind of proposed activity or problem to be addressed. Make sure to contact the local jurisdiction for more information. Other agencies involved may include: 

• Washington State Department of Ecology: Washington State lakes environmental data is a searchable database for lake water quality monitoring data including aquatic plants, toxic algae, herbicide use, fish management, grants and loans, etc. 
• Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife: Aquatic invasive species resources  
• Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife: Hydraulic Project Approval An HPA is required in many cases if you are planning to do any projects in or near state waters to ensure that it is done in a manner that protects fish and their aquatic habitats.  
• Department of Natural Resources: Lake Kapowsin Aquatic Reserve is the state's only freshwater aquatic reserve and has volunteer opportunities with the Friends of Lake Kapowsin group. 

Partner Organization Resources 

Organizations and programs provide lake education, training, resources and partner opportunities, including: 

• Washington State Lake Protection Association is a nonprofit organization for people interested in lakes issues across the state 
• Friends of Spanaway Lake is a nonprofit organization focused on Spanaway Lake  
• Tappswise - Healthy Lake, Healthy Community Tacoma Pierce County Health Department, provides education and incentives for residents and septic system owners to maintain their systems and protect water quality. 
• Early Detection Rapid Response Citizen Science Program  Pacific Northwest Invasive Plant Council trains volunteers to identify and report invasive aquatic species, toxic algae, and cyanobacteria. 
• Algae Watch Volunteer Group - Volunteers are invited to report possible toxic algae blooms to the local health department for further investigation by TPCHD. 
•  Aquatic Lands Enhancement Account Volunteer Cooperative Grant Program is a WDFW grant program designed to assist citizen groups seeking funding for projects that enhance or protect aquatic lands. 
• Report a Sighting of invasive animals, plants, insects, or wildlife infection diseases to the Washington Invasive Species Council. You may use an online form or an app.