This seven-member board is authorized by state law (RCW 43.126) to establish the official names of geographic features (lakes, mountains, streams, places, towns) in the state of Washington.
The board works in cooperation with the U.S. Board on Geographic Names to develop principles, policies, and procedures to assign or authorize the names of geographic features. This cooperation ensures standardization between state and federal mapping programs.
The board is the responsible focal point for geographic naming in the state and has specific responsibilities:
- Establish a procedure for retaining and formally recognizing existing geographical names.
- Standardize procedures for naming or renaming geographical features.
- Coordinate state naming activities between local, state, and federal agencies.
- Avoid the duplication of names for similar features.
- Retain the significance, spelling, and color of names associated with the early history of Washington.
Meetings
The board meets at least twice a year. It may hold special meetings called by the chair or a majority of the board. All of its meetings are open to the public.
(view agendas and minutes)
Membership
(view board members - 20KB PDF)
State law specifies the board’s membership:
- Commissioner of Public Lands (or designee) as chair
- State Librarian (or designee)
- Chair of the Washington State Heritage Council
- Four members from the general public who are appointed by the Commissioner of Public Lands
Several qualities are desirable for membership on the Washington State Board on Geographic Names:
- Interest in and familiarity with the history, culture, and geography of the state of Washington
- Awareness of the contribution of ethnic and cultural groups to the state’s history
- Willingness to donate personal time to serve the public and attend semi-annual board meetings
- Interest in conducting research into geographic names that come before the board
- Willingness to communicate and work with other board members and share knowledge
Member Terms
The four members appointed by the Commissioner of Public Lands serve three-year terms and continue in office until a successor is appointed. The Commissioner of Public Lands, State Librarian, and Chair of the Washington State Heritage Council are permanent members of the board.
(view member terms - 20KB PDF)