Extensive land development activity has occurred and is continuing in foothill and mountainous areas of California. It is estimated that between 1960 and 1970 over 500 1000 acres of wild lands were subdivided. Adverse environmental impact includes inadequate protection of fish and wildlife habitat and lack of watershed and water quality protection. Since the counties have jurisdiction over most land use planning, county action is the key to preserving fish and wildlife habitat. The more progressive counties have been able to reduce habitat damage by means of open-space and large-parcel zoning; prohibition of development on steep or unstable slopes, floodplains, wetlands and meadows; and stream and lake setbacks. Watershed damage can be reduced if strict grading, lot-split, and subdivision ordinances are enacted and enforced by means of required performance bonds. Erosion control including revegetation is particularly important. Local government has recently been provided with many new planning tools by the State legislature. It is imperative that fish and wildlife professionals work with local government to insure that fish and wildlife receive more consideration and that existing planning tools are effectively used.
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