How Land Development Can Impact Water Resources
Land development and economic growth are essential to the well being of the residents of Whatcom County. However, growth and development create pressures that cause significant shifts in ecosystem conditions. Without appropriate planning and management, land use activities can threaten both natural resources and the public welfare. Though land use impacts vary depending on the type of development and the management practices used, impacts could include:
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Pollution
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Erosion and sedimentation
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Habitat loss
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Flooding
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Loss of property
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Minimizing stormwater impacts to the maximum extent practicable
- Implementation of small-scale stormwater management measures that are dispersed throughout the landscape
- Maintaining predevelopment hydrologic functions (i.e. travel time, volume, peak flows, etc.)
Benefits of Watershed Regulations:
- Potential for reduced cost of development
- Fewer impervious surfaces such as roads, curbs, and gutters
- decreased need for extension or installation of conventional stormwater infrastructure such as storm drains, piping, and ponds
- Minimized clearing and grading needed for site preparation
- Reduced construction and maintenance costs of stormwater management practices
Minimized hydrologic impacts off-site
- Maintains biologic and hydrologic functions and processes of surface water bodies
- Maintains groundwater flow regime
- Protects neighboring properties
Preservation of open space and habitat connectivity |
