Title
Nature Policy Framework
Proposed Motions
1. That the Nature Policy Framework be accepted for information, as presented.
2. That the Environmentally Significant Areas Policy be approved, as presented.
3. That the Protected Natural Areas Policy be approved, as presented.
4. That the Local Conservation Fund Policy be approved, as presented.
5. That the Innovative Conservation Approaches Policy be approved, as presented.
Body
Administration Recommendation
Administration supports the proposed motions.
Purpose
With the adoption of the 2025 MDP and Council’s strategic direction to better protect Environmentally Significant Areas through policy, administration has developed a Nature Policy Framework to provide guidance and policy direction for conservation of the County’s natural features and the important functions they provide.This RFD provides an overview of the Nature Policy Framework and four new proposed Council policies that will support a nature-positive approach to land use and County operations.
Summary
Parkland County Council has requested a review and update of the County's framework on environmentally significant areas to support responsible management of natural assets and amenities as per the 2024-2025 Council Strategic Plan. A policy framework was created to support these outcomes. It is grounded in moving from identification of natural assets and environmentally significant areas to conservation of them. It will also enable conservation and stewardship tools that are supported by policy in the Municipal Development Plan and Land Use Bylaw. As part of the Framework, Administration has proposed nine new policies, to be adopted in two phases, that will increase clarity and efficiency for conservation programs.
Strategic Plan/Policy/Legal/Staff Implications:
2025 Municipal Development Plan
Integrated Community Sustainability Plan
Council's Strategic Plan, Pillar C, Goal 1
Financial Impact:
Cost: $0
Source of Funding: N/A