Environmental quality and natural resource conservation are inextricably linked with the quality of life in Ventura County. A variety of upland, riparian, wetland, and coastal vegetation types exist in the county that are home to both common and sensitive species. To preserve, maintain, and improve the environment, water must be allocated and managed with the intent to improve the health of forests, upland areas, rivers, wetlands, and floodplains. The policies in this section address the County’s role in assuring adequate water supply for the environment. A summary of environmental characteristics of water in Ventura County is described in Section 10.4, “existing Conditions,” of the Background Report.
Goal: WR-7
To consider the water needs of the natural environment with other water uses in the county.
The County shall encourage the appropriate agencies to effectively manage water quantity and quality to address long-term adequate availability of water for environmental purposes, including maintenance of existing groundwater-dependent habitats and in-stream flows needed for riparian habitats and species protection.
IGC