Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutUDWC notes 031912Upper Deschutes Watershed Council Stakeholder Meeting (2/29/12) 1. What should be preserved? Wetlands, floodplain, river corridor (think of it as an integrated unit), channel migration zone. It is a rich and resilient natural community. Education regarding private land management is extremely important (ex. illegal docks). Emerging water quality issues. Groundwater connection goes beyond just having safe drinking water. What is happening to river water quality? The natural systems are interconnected (theme). Preserve the interconnection between the upland adjacent to rivers as a part of a larger system. The Endangered Species Act and the potential listing of the spotted frog can be seen as an opportunity for collaboration. The City of Sisters has benefitted tremendously with the reintroduction of steelhead on Whychus Creek. South County has natural beauty and quality of life. It also has its own demographics and social justice issues. 2. What land use issues need to be addressed? Undeveloped lots and the potential for explosive growth. There may be opportunities to address recreational opportunities, acquisition, land swaps and other community tools. What’s the community vision for the area, including undeveloped lots? Building in the floodplain is becoming more and more of a problem. Minimizing development in the channel migration zone is important. The floodplain and channel migration zones need to be well defined and protected. Are there opportunities for a share IGA in Klamath County for revenue sharing to address regional issues? Habitat Conservation Plans that are structured with a recovery emphasis towards the spotted frog could be considered. Wetland Mitigation Banking may offer opportunities for wetland protection. After the community has defined what is important, explore partnerships with other agencies/organizations with shared interests and potential funds. Look at all tools available such as Enterprise Zones. Contact Sunriver Anglers, Trout Unlimited and the Bureau of Reclamation to see if they are interested in providing input on the South County Plan. Also involve Eagle Scouts, schools, Wetlands Conservancy, Trust for Public Lands, agencies/organizations working on social issues.