Construction
As of March 2005, there were approximately 6,500 homes in the Lake Whatcom watershed with the potential for about 1,900 additional homes to be built. These new homes, along with possible remodels of existing homes, means the potential for a lot of construction activity in the watershed. Many of these activities can result in substantial impacts to water quality in the Lake and its tributaries if care is not taken.
This section provides helpful information from design to final landscaping including references to specific County and City regulations. These techniques are meant to allow for growth and development within the watershed while preserving our drinking water source, aquatic habitat, and quality of other water resources. Throughout this section these techniques may be referred to as best management practices (BMPs). Best management practices are activities, procedures, or treatments to control the adverse impacts of development and redevelopment.
IMPORTANT UPDATE: Due to water quality concerns associated with land clearing during construction, the City of Bellingham and Whatcom County have implemented certain restrictions. Whatcom County restricts land clearing activities greater that 500 square feet from September 1 - April 30. The City of Bellingham restricts land clearing activities from October 1 - April 30.
