Implementing the Growth Policy
Park County voters approved a growth policy in 2008 that provides a county wide vision for land use and development. PCEC was instrumental in the campaign to get the growth policy passed. Now, PCEC is working to ensure that the growth policy is implemented in a way that reflects conservation values. To that end:
* PCEC is working to promote good county policies and regulations.
* PCEC is monitoring new subdivisions and development, and will advocate for open space and the use of easements to protect valuable resources. PCEC will work to ensure that new development does not degrade riparian areas, wildlife habitat, or sensitive landscapes.
* PCEC is working to promote county policies and regulations that reflect sound land-use planning.
The Park County Growth Policy can be viewed here: https://www.parkcounty.org/Departments/COMMUNITYDEVELOPMENT/Divisions/Planning/FullGrowthPolicy_8-4-06.pdf
Landscape Assessment
In a vast county with a patchwork of ownership spanning federal, state, county, city and private lands, it can sometimes be challenging to prioritize conservation efforts. Without ready access to spatial information, it can be difficult to assess the ecological value of a particular landscape and identify the desired conservation outcomes.
PCEC is working with staff in American Wildlands’ GIS department to create a series of “bird’s eye” maps that combine critical fish and wildlife habitat, existing conservation easements, growth patterns and other information so we can better understand Park County’s resources and develop strategies to protect them.
