(1) Open Space. Any property owner on whose property a critical area or its associated buffer is located and who proposes to put the critical area and buffer in a separate tract may apply for current use property tax assessment on that separate tract through Franklin County, pursuant to Chapter 84.34 RCW.

(2) Conservation Easement. Any person whose property contains an identified critical area or its associated buffer may place a conservation easement over that portion of the property by naming a beneficiary under RCW 64.04.130 as beneficiary of the conservation easement. This conservation easement may be in lieu of a separate critical areas tract that qualifies for open space tax assessment described in subsection (1) of this section. The purpose of the easement shall be to preserve, protect, maintain, restore, and limit future use of the property affected. The terms of the conservation easement may include prohibitions or restrictions on access. [Ord. 4525 § 1, 2021; Ord. 3911 § 2, 2009; Code 1970 § 28.12.210. Formerly 28.12.210.]