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Goals Page Action Strategies Suggested Entities to be Involved in Strategy <br /> # Implementation <br /> 44 ENV-1 m3 ) Adopt a process to develop , in small increments , large-scale areas as Hamlets , Villages , or Work is ongoing using input from utility providers such as Hillsborough , <br /> Compact Mixed- Use Developments using a citizen-driven process through the following Durham , Mebane and OAWS. <br /> action steps: <br /> a ) Identify , with citizen input, relatively undeveloped large-scale areas where planned growth <br /> is preferable. <br /> b) Create a Small Area Plan designing the layout for each growth area . <br /> c) Allow development of relatively small parcels of incrementally over time. <br /> d ) Within design guidelines and performance standards allow market-driven development. <br /> Environment 45 ENV-2-1 ) Use the Lands Legacy program to develop a comprehensive Countywide Natural Areas Incorporate in Comprehensive Plan. <br /> and Land Use Conservation/Open Space Plan that addresses the following : <br /> Goal 2. a) A program to protect important natural areas . <br /> Conserve Natural b ) Identify and protect the most important prime farmlands . <br /> Areas, Farmland c) Recognize that open space needs vary in different parts of the county. <br /> and Other d ) Set annual goals as benchmarks for preservation of certain natural areas and wildlife <br /> Important Open habitat (x acres/year) . <br /> Space e) Integrate all of the above to maintain as best as possible : a viable ecosystem for plants <br /> and wildlife , corridors critical for animal migration , critical habitats , an agricultural <br /> landscape , and outdoor recreational opportunities . <br /> 46 ENV-2-2) Achieve Natural Areas/Open Space Conservation Plan through : Many examples such as Little River have taken place , and work is <br /> a) Fee-simple acquisition of the most important/ threatened areas; ongoing to create new natural areas element of Comprehensive Plan . <br /> b) Purchase of conservation easements; <br /> c) Purchase of Development Rights , where appropriate; <br /> d ) Transfer of Development Rights; <br /> e) Tax exemptions for actively farmed land and managed forestland ; <br /> f) Possible development of a forest banking system; <br /> g ) Purchase of timber rights . <br /> 46 ENV-2-3 ) Secure & increase funding for acquisition of land and development rights : Suggested in the upcoming bond . Work is ongoing in other areas to <br /> a) Increase local funding through bonds for open space and natural areas . permit transfer of development rights (TDR) . <br /> b) Create a dedicated local funding source for acquisition of these areas . <br /> c) Aggressively pursue grants for state and federal agencies to assist in acquisitions . <br /> d ) Increase advocacy for state and federal funding for programming , land acquisition , and <br /> farmland preservation . <br /> e) Maximize purchasing power through use of federal , state , and land trust partnerships . <br /> f) Explore development of a land conservation revolving fund . <br /> 46 ENV-24 ) Educate and encourage homeowners , landscapers , and nurseries to use native or non- Landscape code needs revision . <br /> invasive exotic plants in landscaping . <br />