Agenda - 04-06-1989 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Current plans are for continued use of the Duke Forest to provide research and educational opportunities.. We are currently evaluating the long term use of all Duke University property to access changing research requirements and external influences which might affect the Forest . This study may require reevaluation of these lands in the future with respect to the mission and purpose of the University. Pending the results of this study, any action taken by the Board of Commissioners which further enhances the current protection of the Forest is appreciated by Duke University and consistent with past University policy. With respect to the specific proposal under Item D.1.C. to relocate Carrboro's Transition Area II, we recognize that the current designation which incorporates an irregular line, varying in distance from 200 feet to more than 2500 feet from the Forest, may not be equitable for adjoining land owners. The alternatives to move the Transition Area boundary to set a distance has been reviewed by the Duke Forest Advisory Committee, which is composed primarily of faculty who•utilize the Forest for teaching and research. It has been difficult for that group to determine an adequate scientific basis for an approprate distance to the Transition Area, though the 400 feet recommended in Alternative 4 is certainly a minimum for continued research uses .of these lands. Also, recommendations by the Chapel Hill Planning Board and the Orange County Planning Staff to incorporate a 100 foot natural buffer would enhance the protection value offered by the 400 foot buffer to the Transition Area. We believe it is more critical to incorporate the 100 foot buffer rather than to suggest the longer 670 foot . distance in Alternative 3. We therefore concur with the recommendations of the Planning Staff that include a 400 foot distance to the Transition Area and a 100 foot natural buffer. •