11 Natural Resources
Introduction
The natural resources element of the CDP is included pursuant to the Georgia Planning Act, Georgia Minimum Local Planning Standards, and the Department of Natural Resources’ Rules for Environmental Planning Criteria (O.C.G.A. 50-8-7 and 12-2-8) and includes 1) an inventory of the City’s natural and environmentally sensitive resources; 2) issues, problems, and opportunities associated with those resources; and 3) goals, policies, and strategies for their appropriate use, preservation, and protection that are consistent with those established for other plan elements. The Statewide goal for natural resources is to conserve and protect the environmental and natural resources of Georgia’s communities, regions, and the State.
The natural environment places certain opportunities and constraints on the way land is utilized. For instance, soil characteristics, topography, and the frequency of flooding are just a few of the factors that affect where development can safely and feasibly be accommodated. Other areas such as wetlands, forest areas and sensitive plant and animal habitats are also vulnerable to the impacts of development. The City's vision is to balance growth and economic development with protection of the natural environment.