See how King County safeguards the environment; Check out the 2006 DNRP annual report, now online

King County residents can find out how the region’s natural resources were managed last year by reading the 2006 Department of Natural Resources and Parks (DNRP) annual report, “Environmental Stewardship in King County," which is now available online.

The report outlines many of the DNRP's activities and accomplishments, and helps King County residents assess the department’s progress protecting human health, safeguarding the environment and enriching the region's quality of life. It can be accessed via the DNRP Web site at http://dnr.metrokc.gov/.

The 2006 annual report also highlights major DNRP accomplishments from the year, including groundbreaking of the Brightwater wastewater treatment plant, developing a countywide flood hazard management plan, completing the East Lake Sammamish Interim Trail and establishing a public safety campaign to raise awareness of the importance of securing materials in truck beds and atop vehicles.

The department is comprised of four major divisions - Parks and Recreation, Solid Waste, Wastewater Treatment and Water and Land Resources. DNRP also houses the county's Geographic Information Systems Center.

“I’m proud of the work that we accomplished in 2006, and the annual report is a great way to showcase some of our highlights,” said DNRP Director Pam Bissonnette. “DNRP programs received more than 30 local, regional, national and international awards in 2006, which is a strong statement about the high quality of work that our professional staff does, day in and day out.”

The mission of the King County DNRP is to: Be the steward of the region's environment and strengthen sustainable communities by protecting our water, land and natural habitats, safely disposing of and reusing wastewater and solid waste, and providing natural areas, parks and recreation programs.

A limited number of printed copies of the 2006 annual report are also available. Stakeholders who would like a printed copy mailed to them can contact DNRP by telephone at 206-296-6500.