| Wetland Planning Guidebook |
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The Department of State Lands and Department of Land Conservation and Development recently published a guidance booklet for communities that are working on wetland resources in their comprehensive plan.
The guidebook will help city planners, planning commissioners, and citizens interested in coordinated planning for land uses in or near wetland and riparian areas in their communities.
To assist local efforts, DSL and DLCD have cooperated to integrate and coordinate the statewide land use planning program and state and federal wetland regulatory programs. When incorporated into local comprehensive land use plans, the wetland and riparian inventories and local protection mechanisms provide reliable information and certainty for landowners interested in developing their property.
Wetlands perform many important functions in urban areas and are valued for the services they provide. Wetlands act as natural water purifiers. Many wetlands can reduce the damages caused by flooding by absorbing and storing floodwater. Some wetlands provide food or resting areas important to fish. Others provide recreation opportunities.
The guidebook does not create any new policies or requirements. Rather, it presents a thorough explanation of existing state administrative rules related to wetland planning.
Only a limited number of guidebooks were printed, but CD’s are available and can be used to print additional copies. To request one, contact Heather Howard or Andrea Downing at 503-986-5235.
For more information about the Guidebook, contact Janet Morlan at 503-986-5236 or email.
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