§ 33-3-103. LEGISLATIVE INTENT.

(a)

In general. The purpose of the County Council in adopting this title is to:

(1)

Protect the county's streams, wetlands, and riverine floodplains;

(2)

Protect the water quality of the county's watercourses, reservoirs, lakes, and the Chesapeake Bay;

(3)

Protect the county's riparian and aquatic ecosystems; and

(4)

Provide environmentally sound use of the county's land resources.

(b)

Forest buffers.

(1)

Multiple environmental protection and resource management values are provided by forest buffers.

(2)

Forest buffers enhance and protect the natural ecology of stream systems; water quality; wildlife habitat; the aesthetic and scenic qualities of natural features; environmentally sensitive areas, such as aquifer recharge areas; and flora and fauna preservation sites.

(3)

Forest buffers adjacent to stream systems:

(i)

Restore and maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the water resources;

(ii)

Filter nutrients and toxins;

(iii)

Reduce erosion and control sedimentation;

(iv)

Stabilize stream banks;

(v)

Provide infiltration of stormwater runoff;

(vi)

Maintain base flow of streams;

(vii)

Provide the organic matter that is the source of food and energy for the aquatic ecosystem;

(viii)

Provide tree canopy to shade streams and encourage trout and other desirable aquatic species;

(ix)

Provide riparian wildlife habitat;

(x)

Provide scenic value and recreational opportunity; and

(xi)

Minimize public investment in waterway restoration, stormwater management, and other water resource expenditures.

(1988 Code, § 14-332) (Bill No. 224, 1990, § 1, 1-1-1991; Bill No. 94-02, § 2, 7-1-2004)