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007 <br /> t l UM <br /> coordinated with conservation efforts if feasible , and acquired lands assessed from a biological <br /> standpoint . In addition, in the interest of monitoring the status of our biological resources , the <br /> biological changes that have come about as a result of Cane Creek reservoir should be assessed, <br /> relative to the 1988 inventory . Similarly, lands acquired for watershed protection by the Town of <br /> Hillsborough should be surveyed by the County , though this would not be a high priority action . <br /> Hyco Creek, Back Creek, and the Flat River : These watersheds have not received <br /> substantial attention to date, and would all benefit from biological survey . Flat River water <br /> quality was assessed in 1988 , however that of Hyco and Back Creeks should be assessed at their <br /> headwaters in Orange County , <br /> III . Goals for the Coming Year <br /> A review of the current state of biological resources in Orange County reminds us of the <br /> many assets we enjoy, but it also highlights areas in which we need more and better information <br /> in order to make informed decisions . A review aids us in prioritizing those natural areas for <br /> which we should be concerned, and points to the need for more effective conservation policy in <br /> the County . <br /> A . More and Better Information <br /> There are several valuable tools not currently in use , which would give us a better indication <br /> of the state of the environment in the county . <br /> ➢ An improved inventory of biological resources in the northern half of county , including a <br /> ground-based investigation of large forest tracts identified in LWW41 . Private lands should <br /> be included where site review is permitted . <br /> ➢ A dynamic , periodically reviewed biological inventory . <br /> ➢ A methodological approach to periodically assess change in the area of forest annually, or at <br /> least every five to ten years . This might be based on building permit information, field <br /> observations , and GIS analysis from aerial photos (to compare with 1988 photos) . The <br /> interest would be to document forest losses from building , timber extraction, and road <br /> building, to document fragmentation from road building and other causes , and also to <br /> document forest growth (changes from field to pine , pine to hardwood and other trends) . <br /> Findings could also serve as a map documenting progress toward County conservation goals . <br /> B . Increased Protection for Areas of Concern <br /> Some natural areas in the County , those with unique value or lack of accessibility , require <br /> ongoing surveillance to prevent future negative impacts . <br /> 6 <br />