AGENDA DATE: 11/18/2020
TITLE:
Title
Stream Health Initiative Update
BODY
SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Update to the Board on the project timeline and public engagement approach for the second phase of the Stream Health Initiative, focused on the Rural Areas.
ITEM TYPE: Consent Information Item
STAFF CONTACT(S): Richardson, Walker, Filardo, McCulley, Rapp, Maliszewski, Biasiolli
PRESENTER (S): N/A
LEGAL REVIEW: Not Required
REVIEWED BY: Jeffrey B. Richardson
BACKGROUND: In 2017, the 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. A public engagement effort in 2017-2018 involved three stakeholder meetings, focused on development, conservation, and farming/forestry, as well as public meetings and surveys to reach the wider community. These efforts generated thoughtful discussion, as well as a recognition of the broad scope of the project, ultimately resulting in the division of the initiative into two phases. Phase I has focused on development-related issues and strategies for improving stream health. Thirteen specific proposals were developed, some of which have been implemented; work on others is ongoing. Phase II of the Stream Health Initiative will be focused on rural area issues and land uses, and on developing strategies for improving stream health in the Rural Areas. A public engagement effort is planned in order to build on what was learned in 2017, and to focus on solutions supported by the communities, landowners, and organizations that live and work in Albemarle's Rural Areas.
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.
DISCUSSION: A summary report is provided as Attachment A, which outlines the project timeline and public...
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