Protect and restore freshwater and estuarine wetlands, open space buffer areas and connectivity between freshwater and estuarine waters.

STRATEGIES

NS-13.1 Integrate existing mapping databases from all key agencies to improve access to local wetland maps for planning, regulation and zoning purposes. Existing wetland maps can be accessed through the National Wetland Inventory and federal or state agencies.

NS-13.2 Develop and implement a comprehensive regional strategy to acquire and protect key wetland areas identified through a regional process, with defined goals and a clear articulation of the benefits of protection.

NS-13.3 Advocate for the development of a formal “wetland” or “conservation” zone designation for all zoning maps that include freshwater wetlands, buffer areas and critical freshwater connective areas. Include protections for ephemeral wetlands, wetlands outside formally protected areas and upland areas that will facilitate long-term ecosystem migration. Identify ecosystem migration areas.

NS-13.4 Advocate for the creation of regulations for allowable and prohibited use of critical zoning areas.

NS-13.5 Adopt local incentives and land acquisition programs to protect and conserve wetland zones.

NS-13.6 Acquire perpetual conservation easements or conservation land acquisition for critical wetland zones, including protecting short hydroperiod wetlands that have historically been less protected.