Title
Biophysical Assessment Policy Requirements
Proposed Motion
That the Biophysical Assessment Policy Requirements presentation be accepted for information, as presented.
Body
Administration Recommendation
Administration supports the proposed motion.
Purpose
To provide an overview of policy related to biophysical assessments and options for reducing requirements.
Summary
The County’s environmental strategic framework, programs and assessment procedures have been designed to support rather than control landowner decision making. Supports for stewardship, incentive, and education programs are favored over regulation. Voluntary programs such as ALUS and Green Acreages are promoted along with skills development and education campaigns to achieve environmental goals. Administration works closely with proponents through the land use planning and development process to discuss options that meet the landowner’s goals while reducing environmental impact and therefore assessment requirements. The processes are also designed to help landowners navigate requirements from other jurisdictions to reduce confusion and ensure outcomes are aligned, providing a high level of service.
Studies have measured the value that natural features provide to County residents at over $4 billion, leading to the understanding that their conservation is critical to maintain community wealth and quality of life. The County’s environmental policy sets standards to achieve the desired conservation goals of the community while allowing for flexibility and landowner autonomy. They prioritize Environmentally Significant Areas and high value waterbodies for protection and assessment. This is possible when the County has adequate technical information, clear policy standards, and administrative capacity to deliver a high level of service to residents and developers. However, policy should be reviewed to ensure prioritization of major developments with high potential for impact and to ensure ...
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