Agriculture and forestry are integral parts of Snohomish County's history, identity, economy, and quality of life.  As the region grows, the county is seeking new approaches to accommodate new residents and new jobs while protecting its valuable resource lands.  The Puget Sound Regional Council forecasts that Snohomish County will gain over 100,000 residents between 2000 and 2020.  One approach the county is taking to help plan for this growth is enhancing its conservation strategies, including its transfer of development rights program.

Cascade Land Conservancy continues to be involved in Snohomish County.  In 2009 CLC worked with the county to expand its TDR program.  The addition of a new section to the county's TDR code (SCC 30.35B) in June of 2009 broadened the eligibility of landowners to participate in the TDR program and simplified the process by which sending sites are designated.  Following this change CLC purchased 17 TDR credits from the family-owned and forested Hidden Valley Camp.  This protects the property from development and provides the camp with a financial gain that will ensure it continues offering valuable experiences to the area's youth.

In March 2010 Cascade Land Conservancy began work with the county to review its conservation programs.  CLC will conduct outreach to the public, cities, and stakeholder groups to gather input on conservation and growth priorities.  CLC will make recommendations to the county designed to streamline the administration of its conservation programs, enhance participation, and help communities accomplish their growth goals.  Stay tuned for more news on this process.

On May 12, 2010 the Snohomish County Council voted to approve an update to the county's Urban Centers Code.  This update includes provisions for the use of TDR.  All of the urban centers located in the southwest portion of the county are now designated as TDR receiving areas.  Developers may increase building floor area by purchasing TDR credits from private landowners in Snohomish County.  For more information on the update, please see the Urban Centers Code Project page.