AGENDA DATE: 7/21/2021
TITLE:
Title
Stream Health Initiative Phase II
BODY
SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Work session to discuss strategies for improving stream health in the Rural Area and to receive Board direction regarding strategies to continue developing during the next stage of the Stream Health Initiative project.
ITEM TYPE: Regular Action Item
STAFF CONTACT(S): Richardson, Walker, Kamptner, Herrick, Filardo, McCulley, Pohl, Rapp, Maliszewski, Biasiolli
PRESENTER (S): Kim Biasiolli, Frank Pohl
LEGAL REVIEW: Yes
REVIEWED BY: Jeffrey B. Richardson
BACKGROUND: In 2017, the Albemarle Board of Supervisors directed staff to develop strategies for improving stream health in the county; this project is referred to as the Stream Health Initiative. Phase I (2018-present) focused on development-related issues and strategies for improving stream health, and resulted in the development of thirteen specific proposals. In a public hearing on April 21, 2021, the Board voted to adopt an ordinance to amend the Water Protection Ordinance and to address a subset of these proposals; work on the remaining proposals is phased due to staff resource needs and continues in parallel with Phase II.
Phase II of the project has a Rural Area focus. The goal of Phase II is to develop strategies for improving stream health that are supported by the communities, landowners, and organizations that live and work in the Rural Area, using a collaborative and inclusive process. Phase II project updates were provided to the Board on November 18, 2020 and April 7, 2021.
The Phase II public engagement process has been underway since January 2021 and resulted in the development of 16 strategies with a potential for further consideration.
STRATEGIC PLAN: Natural Resources Stewardship - Thoughtfully protect and manage Albemarle County's ecosystems and natural resources in both the rural and development areas to safeguard the quality of life of current and future generations. ...
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