AGENDA DATE: 4/7/2021
TITLE:
Title
Stream Health Initiative Project Update
BODY
SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Update to the Board on the Stream Health Initiative (Phase II - Rural Area).
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 Albemarle County 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 has focused on development-related issues and strategies for improving stream health. Thirteen specific proposals were developed, some of which will be going to the board on April 21 for a public hearing with a targeted effective date of July 1; work on others is ongoing. 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.
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 provides a project update on Phase II of the Stream Health Initiative. This includes progress made during the Planning and Material Development Stage (Sept. - Dec. 2020) and the Discover Stage (Jan. - Mar. 2021), as well as the overall project timeline, public engagement efforts, and next steps. Results of the Discover questionnaire as of March 24 are provided as Attachment B.
BUDGET IMPACT: There is no budget impact at this time. Future recommendations and decisions regarding stream health policy and programs could have budget impacts.
RECOMMENDATION:
Recommendation
This report is for information only. No action is necessary.
ATTACHMENTS:
A - Report - Stream Health Initiative Project Update (Phase II - Rural Area)
B - Report - Stream Health Initiative Discover Questionnaire Results