Everett initiative asks: Should the Snohomish River have legal rights?

EVERETT — Everett voters will decide next Tuesday if the Snohomish River should have legal rights.

If Initiative 24-03 passes, any city resident could take anyone negatively impacting the watershed’s health to court.

Individuals, companies or businesses found responsible for disturbing the watershed would be liable for for the damages, and would have to pay City Hall for restoration projects.

The entire Snohomish River Basin watershed covers 1,856 square miles spanning Snohomish and King counties. However, the ordinance only applies to the watershed within Everett city limits. The boundaries include contributing creeks and wetlands, such as Langus Riverfront Park Creek, Union Slough and Port Gardner Bay.

https://www.heraldnet.com/news/everett-initiative-asks-should-the-snohomish-river-have-legal-rights/