Conservation Land-Use Policy Toolkit
CompleteThis toolkit provides local governments in the Chesapeake Bay watershed with information about land-use policy tools they can use to slow the conversion of farmland, forestland and wetlands.
Description
Local governments across the Chesapeake Bay region have done great work to slow the conversion of farmland, forestland and wetlands. But there is more to do. The development of sensitive lands threatens the conservation of rural lands and vitality of the farming and forestry industries. Local governments have numerous policy tools available to slow this conversion, but need information about how to choose and implement the best tools for their jurisdictions. This Conservation Land Use Policy Toolkit provides local governments in the Chesapeake Bay watershed with information about land use policy tools to slow the conversion of farmland, forestland and wetlands. Seven land use policy tools are highlighted in this report, including: comprehensive planning, zoning, subdivision ordinances, impact fees, urban service boundaries, purchase of development rights/conservation easements and transfer of development rights.