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t;�3 <br />of watershed planning is an overarching concern. Watershed <br />functions, water quality, riparian habitat, wetlands, and <br />baylar ds are all addressed in the Natural Systems Element. <br />The topics addressed in this element are interrelated, as are <br />all the components of natural systems. Issues that threaten <br />Marin County's biodiversity - such as water quality <br />degradation, invasive flora and non -native animal species, <br />habitat fragmentation, and loss of sensitive biological <br />resources as a result of land conversion and development - <br />are also threats to agriculture and food production. How we <br />treat streams, marshes, and wetlands not only affects the <br />plants and animals that depend on these aquatic habitats, but <br />also creates flood- related and other impacts in low -lying areas. <br />Below are the topics covered in this portion of the <br />Countywide Plan: <br />♦ Biological Resources <br />♦ Water Resources <br />♦ Mineral Resources <br />*Atmosphere and Climate <br />♦ Open Space <br />♦ Trails <br />♦ Agriculture and Food <br />Topics related to environmental hazards are located in the <br />Built Environment Element while issues pertaining to <br />environmental justice, public health, historic and <br />archaeological resources, and parks and recreation are in the <br />Socioeconomic Element. <br />® Introduction <br />