examples & resources€¦ · groundwork hudson is an active organization in the lower hudson...

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BEST PRACTICE EXAMPLE Portland, OR Portland, Oregon, has embarked on a community garden program that has generated a total of 35 gardens within the city limits. One can become a community gardener by submitting a request form. The city also permits private parties to gain access to unused parkland for gardening and ur- ban agriculture purposes. (Available at: http://www.portlandoregon.gov/parks/39846). Seattle, WA Seattle, Washington, has passed an ordinance that permits the use of public lands suitable for farm- ers’ markets. The ordinance couples this with streamlined approvals and cheaper permitting fees. (available at: http://bit.ly/2ctZojQ). Newburgh, NY Newburgh, New York has a multi-phase smart growth plan for the Quassaick Creek, which will uti- lize green infrastructure, urban gardening, micro hydropower, and land conservation efforts. This will become a model for communities with lands on tributaries and creeks. (Available at: http:// www.cityofnewburgh-ny.gov/quassaick-creek). RESOURCES Draft New York State Open Space Conservation Plan 2014 (available at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/ docs/lands_forests_pdf/osp14draftplan.pdf). NYS Agricultural Assessment Plan Overview (available at: https://www.tax.ny.gov/research/ property/assess/valuation/ag_overview.htm). American Farmland Trust: Protecting Farms in New York (available at: http://www.wahpdc.org/ toolkit.html). Glynwood: State of Agriculture in the Hudson Valley (available at: https://glynwood.org/wp- content/uploads/2015/02/State-of-Agriculture-2010.pdf). Agriculture-Based Economic Development in NYS (available at: http:// cooperatives.dyson.cornell.edu/pdf/EB%202012-11.pdf). Niagara County Agricultural & Farmland Protection Plan (available at: http:// uploads.oneregionforward.org/content/uploads/2012/12/Niagara-County-Agricultural-and- Farmland-Protection-Plan.pdf). DEC Open Space Protection: Putting Local Plans into Action (available at: http:// www.dec.ny.gov/lands/92603.html). DEC Conserving Natural Areas & Wildlife in the Hudson River Valley (available at: http:// www.dec.ny.gov/lands/50083.html). DEC Conservation Easements (available at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/41156.html). Examples & Resources 58

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Page 1: Examples & Resources€¦ · Groundwork Hudson is an active organization in the lower Hudson Valley, working to make neglect-ed neighborhoods more livable and sustainable for the

BEST PRACTICE EXAMPLE

Portland, OR Portland, Oregon, has embarked on a community garden program that has generated a total of 35 gardens within the city limits. One can become a community gardener by submitting a request form. The city also permits private parties to gain access to unused parkland for gardening and ur-ban agriculture purposes. (Available at: http://www.portlandoregon.gov/parks/39846). Seattle, WA Seattle, Washington, has passed an ordinance that permits the use of public lands suitable for farm-ers’ markets. The ordinance couples this with streamlined approvals and cheaper permitting fees. (available at: http://bit.ly/2ctZojQ). Newburgh, NY Newburgh, New York has a multi-phase smart growth plan for the Quassaick Creek, which will uti-lize green infrastructure, urban gardening, micro hydropower, and land conservation efforts. This will become a model for communities with lands on tributaries and creeks. (Available at: http://www.cityofnewburgh-ny.gov/quassaick-creek).

RESOURCES

Draft New York State Open Space Conservation Plan 2014 (available at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/docs/lands_forests_pdf/osp14draftplan.pdf). NYS Agricultural Assessment Plan Overview (available at: https://www.tax.ny.gov/research/property/assess/valuation/ag_overview.htm). American Farmland Trust: Protecting Farms in New York (available at: http://www.wahpdc.org/toolkit.html). Glynwood: State of Agriculture in the Hudson Valley (available at: https://glynwood.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/State-of-Agriculture-2010.pdf). Agriculture-Based Economic Development in NYS (available at: http://cooperatives.dyson.cornell.edu/pdf/EB%202012-11.pdf). Niagara County Agricultural & Farmland Protection Plan (available at: http://uploads.oneregionforward.org/content/uploads/2012/12/Niagara-County-Agricultural-and-Farmland-Protection-Plan.pdf). DEC Open Space Protection: Putting Local Plans into Action (available at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/92603.html). DEC Conserving Natural Areas & Wildlife in the Hudson River Valley (available at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/50083.html). DEC Conservation Easements (available at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/41156.html).

Examples & Resources

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Page 2: Examples & Resources€¦ · Groundwork Hudson is an active organization in the lower Hudson Valley, working to make neglect-ed neighborhoods more livable and sustainable for the

RESOURCE LIST: Mid-Hudson Regional Sustainability Plan (http://bit.ly/2bJyVO6), LEED-ND Technical Guidance Manual (http://bit.ly/29t8Wb5), Climate Smart Communities Certification Manual (http://on.ny.gov/29KFjTU), DEC Land Use Toolkit (http://bit.ly/29Kketf), Mid-Hudson Sustainability and Smart Growth Toolkit (http://bit.ly/2bzUe5B)

Farmland and Open Space Protection

Zoning

Photo by James Van Hemert (CC BY-NC 4.0). Copyright 2003

American Planning Association.

RESOURCES

Mid-Hudson Regional Sustainability Plan Ch. 4.3 (4-21) Ch.7 (p.7-2), Ch.7.1.1 (p.7-2) Ch.7.3 (p.7-16), Ch.7.5 (p.7-20)

LEED-ND Technical Guidance Manual Ch.1.5 (p.35), Ch.1.7 (p. 41), Ch.2.3 (p.46), Ch.2.8 (p.50), Ch.3.26 (p.83), Ch.5.7 (p. 110)

Climate Smart Communities Certification Manual Ch.6.2 (p.6-6)

DEC Land Use Toolkit Adopt a County Agricultural and Farmland Protection

Plan, Acquire Land and/or Conservation Easements, Pre-

serve and Enhance Open Spaces, Adopt Transfer of Devel-

opment Rights

Mid-Hudson Sustainability and Smart Growth Toolkit p.10, p. 66, p.72, p. 73, p.75

DESCRIPTION

As of 2010, there were 323,154 acres of farm-

land in the mid-Hudson region, comprising

11% of land in that area (Westchester is 2.6%

farmland). Farm soils are a finite resource that

cannot be replaced. Protecting farmland helps

to maintain agricultural jobs, which are a major

source of jobs in rural areas. Moreover, preser-

vation of farms enables the availability of a

fresh food source in the region, protects the en-

vironment and local ecosystems, and makes the

region overall more sustainable. Open Space,

on the other hand, consists of not just agricul-

tural lands, but forests, coastal lands, estuarine

lands, and more. Open spaces may be privately

owned or publically owned. These spaces are

being pressed by fragmentation, coupled with

invasive species.

IMPLEMENTATION

Zoning changes to preserve open spaces and farmland can be as simple as re-zoning lands to agricultural land. When re-zoning to agricultur-al land it is vital to implement language that permits the use of secondary farming used and farm-related structures, to promote local farm-ing within the area, and thus increasing locally grown food. Cluster developments are benefi-cial to building up one area of land, while pre-serving others. Historic preservation can also have the effect of preserving open lands. Other schemes include the use of transfer of develop-ment rights and the creation of land trusts to generate conservation easements.

Agriculture and Open Spaces

A

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Page 3: Examples & Resources€¦ · Groundwork Hudson is an active organization in the lower Hudson Valley, working to make neglect-ed neighborhoods more livable and sustainable for the

BEST PRACTICE EXAMPLES

Red Hook, NY Scenic Hudson has worked in Red Hook, New York, in order to preserve 225 acres of working farm-land. This was accomplished by way of conservation easements, and partnerships that enabled farm owners to further invest. Moreover, the project partnerships lowered land prices for new farmers seeking to start their enterprise. (Available at: http://www.scenichudson.org/news/article/red-hook-farmland-red-hook-dutchess-county/2008-09-17). Bozeman, MT Bozeman, Montana, created a “neighborhood growth policy amendment,” which successfully re-zoned multiple zoning districts and provided new open space as well as density increases in other zones. (Available at: http://weblink.bozeman.net/WebLink8/DocView.aspx?id=33623&page=1&&dbid=0).

RESOURCES

Draft New York State Open Space Conservation Plan 2014 (available at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/docs/lands_forests_pdf/osp14draftplan.pdf). NYS Agricultural Assessment Plan Overview (available at: https://www.tax.ny.gov/research/property/assess/valuation/ag_overview.htm). American Farmland Trust: Protecting Farms in New York (available at: http://www.wahpdc.org/toolkit.html). Glynwood: State of Agriculture in the Hudson Valley (available at: https://glynwood.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/State-of-Agriculture-2010.pdf). Agriculture-Based Economic Development in NYS (available at: http://cooperatives.dyson.cornell.edu/pdf/EB%202012-11.pdf). Niagara County Agricultural & Farmland Protection Plan (available at: http://uploads.oneregionforward.org/content/uploads/2012/12/Niagara-County-Agricultural-and-Farmland-Protection-Plan.pdf). DEC Open Space Protection: Putting Local Plans into Action (available at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/92603.html). DEC Conserving Natural Areas & Wildlife in the Hudson River Valley (available at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/50083.html). DEC Conservation Easements (available at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/41156.html).

Examples & Resources

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Page 4: Examples & Resources€¦ · Groundwork Hudson is an active organization in the lower Hudson Valley, working to make neglect-ed neighborhoods more livable and sustainable for the

RESOURCE LIST: Mid-Hudson Regional Sustainability Plan (http://bit.ly/2bJyVO6), LEED-ND Technical Guidance Manual (http://bit.ly/29t8Wb5), Climate Smart Communities Certification Manual (http://on.ny.gov/29KFjTU), DEC Land Use Toolkit (http://bit.ly/29Kketf), Mid-Hudson Sustainability and Smart Growth Toolkit (http://bit.ly/2bzUe5B)

Urban Agriculture Planning

RESOURCES

Mid-Hudson Regional Sustainability Plan Ch. 7.5.5 (7-24)

Climate Smart Communities Certification Manual Ch.6.7 (p.6-16)

DEC Land Use Toolkit Develop an Urban Agriculture Program

Mid-Hudson Sustainability and Smart Growth Toolkit p.14, p. 69

DESCRIPTION

Urban agriculture is the use of urban

farming or gardening within city lim-

its. It provides educational oppor-

tunity to learn the value of having

local agriculture, while attaching

consumers to food sources. Further-

more, it improves the use and look of

areas in need of redevelopment,

while providing seasonal employ-

ment. Urban agriculture not only

promotes environmental awareness,

but also increases local food security,

strengthens connections to the com-

munity, and reduces greenhouse gas

emissions by lessening the burden of

needing out of town food source pro-

duction.

IMPLEMENTATION

New or amended plans, ordinances, and regulations may be needed to enable proper planning mechanisms and techniques for fostering urban agriculture. Planning for urban agriculture could begin with development of a community garden, coupled with educational resources for groups forming such gardens. It is just as important to plan for availability of farmers markets within the locali-ty. Communities can seek help from the farm protection board and the Cornell Cooperative Extension to aid in launching a community planning effort. Moreover, locali-ties may setup a consultation with the New York Depart-ment of State’s Office of General Counsel regarding poli-cies to incentivize farmer’s markets, community gardens, and urban agriculture. Planning for a community garden should look to begin by figuring out what sites are most suitable. The second step is to build community and political support for the pro-ject. Third, is to identify community gardeners. The fourth step is to identify barriers. The last step is to cre-ate a plan.

Agriculture and Open Spaces

Local Farmers Market

A

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Page 5: Examples & Resources€¦ · Groundwork Hudson is an active organization in the lower Hudson Valley, working to make neglect-ed neighborhoods more livable and sustainable for the

BEST PRACTICE EXAMPLE

Groundwork Hudson Groundwork Hudson is an active organization in the lower Hudson Valley, working to make neglect-ed neighborhoods more livable and sustainable for the future. The organization has countless urban gardens, as well as a science barge, consisting of barge with a greenhouse that is utilized for educa-tional as well as agricultural needs. (Available at: http://www.groundworkhv.org/programs/science-barge/).

RESOURCES

New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets (available at: http://www.agriculture.ny.gov/). American Planning Association—Zoning and Urban Agriculture (available at: https://urpl.wisc.edu/sites/urpl.wisc.edu/files/people/morales/Mukherji%20Morales%20ZP%20March%202010.pdf). New York State Codes, Right to Farm (available at: http://codes.findlaw.com/ny/agriculture-and-markets-law/agm-sect-308.html). The Sustainable Cities Institute (available at: http://www.sustainablecitiesinstitute.org/topics/food-systems/urban-agriculture). Grow NYC (available at: https://www.grownyc.org/). Urban Farming .org (available at: http://www.urbanfarming.org/). The City of Richmond Grows Gardens (available at: http://www.richmondgov.com/content/CommunityGarden/RulesAndGuidelines.aspx). Pittsburgh Vacant Lot Toolkit (available at: http://pittsburghpa.gov/dcp/adoptalot).

Examples & Resources

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Page 6: Examples & Resources€¦ · Groundwork Hudson is an active organization in the lower Hudson Valley, working to make neglect-ed neighborhoods more livable and sustainable for the

 

RESOURCELIST:Mid‐HudsonRegionalSustainabilityPlan(http://bit.ly/2bJyVO6),LEED‐NDTechnicalGuidanceManual(http://bit.ly/29t8Wb5),ClimateSmartCommunitiesCerti icationManual(http://on.ny.gov/29KFjTU),DECLandUseToolkit(http://bit.ly/29Kketf),Mid‐HudsonSustainabilityandSmartGrowthToolkit(http://bit.ly/2bzUe5B)

U A Z

City Farm Skyline 

RESOURCES

Mid‐HudsonRegionalSustainabilityPlanCh.7.5.5(7‐24)

ClimateSmartCommunitiesCerti icationMan‐ualCh.6.7(p.6‐16)

DECLandUseToolkitDevelopanUrbanAgricultureProgram

Mid‐HudsonSustainabilityandSmartGrowthToolkitp.14,p.69

DESCRIPTION

Urbanagricultureistheuseofurbanfarmingorgardeningwithincitylimits.Itprovidesed‐ucationalopportunitytolearnthevalueofhav‐inglocalagriculture,whileattachingconsum‐erstofoodsources.Furthermore,itimprovestheuseandlookofareasinneedofredevelop‐ment,whileprovidingseasonalemployment.Urbanagriculturenotonlypromotesenviron‐mentalawareness,butalsoincreaseslocalfoodsecurity,strengthensconnectionstothecom‐munity,andreducesgreenhousegasemissionsbylesseningtheburdenofneedingoutoftownfoodsourceproduction.

IMPLEMENTATION

Thereareanumberofzoningtoolswhichpro‐moteurbanagriculture.Municipalitiescansimplyre‐zoneadesignatedareatopermittheuseofsmalllocalfarmingpractices.Alocalitycanalsopassanordinancetospeci icallyper‐mitfoodproductioninpublicspaces,oranor‐dinancepermittingpubliclyownedvacantlotstobeutilizedforcommunitygardenpurposesbylocalresidents.Urbanagriculturecaneitherbetreatedasadistrict,orausecategorywithinadistrict.

A O S

A

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Page 7: Examples & Resources€¦ · Groundwork Hudson is an active organization in the lower Hudson Valley, working to make neglect-ed neighborhoods more livable and sustainable for the

BESTPRACTICEEXAMPLES

JerseyCity,NJJerseyCityhasdevelopedaprogramwherebypeoplecanadoptanopenlottobeturnedintoacommunitygarden.Thereareover100lotsavailableforuse.TheJerseyCityDepartmentofHealthoverseestheprogram,andaidsresourcesandeducationalsupporttoaspiringcommunitygarden‐ers.(Availableat:http://www.cityo jerseycity.com/AdoptALot/).Portland,ORPortland,Oregon,currentlyhasmorethan50communitygardensthroughoutthecitylimits.Thecityrequiresarequestformbe iledforone,andpermitsprivateindividualstoturnunusedpark‐landintourbanagriculturaluseorgardening.(Availableat:http://www.portlandoregon.gov/parks/39846).

RESOURCES

NewYorkStateDepartmentofAgricultureandMarkets(availableat:http://www.agriculture.ny.gov/).AmericanPlanningAssociation—ZoningandUrbanAgriculture(availableat:https://urpl.wisc.edu/sites/urpl.wisc.edu/ iles/people/morales/Mukherji%20Morales%20ZP%20March%202010.pdf).NewYorkStateCodes,RighttoFarm(availableat:http://codes. indlaw.com/ny/agriculture‐and‐markets‐law/agm‐sect‐308.html).TheSustainableCitiesInstitute(availableat:http://www.sustainablecitiesinstitute.org/topics/food‐systems/urban‐agriculture).GrowNYC(availableat:https://www.grownyc.org/).UrbanFarming.org(availableat:http://www.urbanfarming.org/).TheCityofRichmondGrowsGardens(availableat:http://www.richmondgov.com/content/CommunityGarden/RulesAndGuidelines.aspx).

E &R

64

Page 8: Examples & Resources€¦ · Groundwork Hudson is an active organization in the lower Hudson Valley, working to make neglect-ed neighborhoods more livable and sustainable for the

RESOURCE LIST: Mid-Hudson Regional Sustainability Plan (http://bit.ly/2bJyVO6), LEED-ND Technical Guidance Manual (http://bit.ly/29t8Wb5), Climate Smart Communities Certification Manual (http://on.ny.gov/29KFjTU), DEC Land Use Toolkit (http://bit.ly/29Kketf), Mid-Hudson Sustainability and Smart Growth Toolkit (http://bit.ly/2bzUe5B)

Planning for Natural Resources, and Sensitive

Environmental Resources

Photo by James Banderson (CC BY-NC 4.0). Copyright 2015

American Planning Association.

RESOURCES

Mid-Hudson Regional Sustainability Plan Ch. 9.7 (9-10) Ch.7 (p.7-2), Ch.7.1.1 (p.7-2) Ch.7.3 (p.7-16), Ch.7.5 (p.7-20)

LEED-ND Technical Guidance Manual Ch.3.2—3.25 (p.78-83)

Climate Smart Communities Certification Man-ual Ch.6.17 (p.6-36), Ch.6.19 (p.6-39), Ch.7.13 (p.7-28)

DEC Land Use Toolkit Adopt a Natural Environmental Areas Overlay District Or-

dinance, Adopt a Transfer of Development Rights Plan/

Ordinance

Mid-Hudson Sustainability and Smart Growth Toolkit p.10, p. 27

DESCRIPTION

Preservation of natural resources and

sensitive environmental resources are

critical to sustainable development. Such

resources include floodplains, wetlands

and other waterbodies, steep slopes, and

sensitive habitat. Wetlands are vital, as

they recharge and purify waters, control

flooding and stormwater, limit erosion,

provide habitat for animal and plant life,

as much more. Westchester County has a

vast amounts of natural resources, pro-

vided in part by the Hudson River.

Westchester based communities should

leverage the large capacity of natural re-

sources by creating sustainable water-

front development, complete with agri-

culture, tourism, recreational facilities,

and restaurants.

IMPLEMENTATION

New or amended plans, ordinances, and regulations may be needed to enable proper planning mechanisms and techniques for preservation of natural resources and sensitive environmental resources. To begin, local-ities can create a Conservation Advisory Commission. As part of planning, communities may encourage fur-ther development of agriculture by providing more markets, preserving lands, an investing in infrastruc-ture. Localities can also promote the natural resources sector, which includes agriculture, horticulture, forest-ry, natural resource management, and outdoor recrea-tion. This includes protecting from the over harvesting of timber. Municipalities may also seek to meet with the State National Heritage Program and State Fish and Wildlife Service to get a full understanding of what threatened, endangered, and imperiled species are in the vicinity. These practices will support locally adopt-ed zoning to further preservation.

Agriculture and Open Spaces

A

65

Page 9: Examples & Resources€¦ · Groundwork Hudson is an active organization in the lower Hudson Valley, working to make neglect-ed neighborhoods more livable and sustainable for the

BEST PRACTICE EXAMPLE

Mid-Hudson Center for Sustainable Learning While still only a proposal, it would provide a place for training of planners, local officials, and citi-zens who would like to learn more about smart growth implementation, and sustainability. It would also discuss and teach people how to engender and maintain a “natural resource-based business.” Creating and fostering business within the realm of natural-resources is important to sustainability. (Available at: http://www.orangecountygov.com/filestorage/124/1362/4586/16547/Appendix_C_List_of_Project_Ideas.pdf). Grand Rapids, MI Grand Rapids, Michigan, adopted a master plan that incorporated principles of sustainable develop-ment. More importantly, the planning department created a process for citizen engagement that re-sulted in the Green Grand Rapids Initiative. Citizen issues addressed include: having recreational and parks, supporting the natural systems, the Grand River, and local food. (Available at: http://grcity.us/design-and-development-services/Planning-Department/Documents/Green_Grand_Rapids_Report_LowRez_2011_10_04.pdf).

RESOURCES

Westchester County, NY, Natural Resource Inventory Map (available at: http://giswww.westchestergov.com/wcgis/NRI.htm). Town of Eden, NY, Natural Resources Inventory (available at: http://www.edenny.org/images/fina_nat_res_inv.pdf). DEC: Conserving Natural Areas and Wildlife in Your Community (available at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/50083.html). DEC: Open Space Protection: Putting Local Plans Into Action (available at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/92603.html). The Conservation Fund: Strategic Conservation Planning (available at: http://www.conservationfund.org/what-we-do/strategic-conservation-planning). The Environmental Law Institute: Advancing the Implementation of Conservation Planning (available at: http://www.eli.org/land-biodiversity/advancing-implementation-conservation-planning). National Fish and Wildlife Service, National Fish, Wildlife, and Plants Climate Adaptation Strat-egy (available at: https://www.wildlifeadaptationstrategy.gov/index.php).

Examples & Resources

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Page 10: Examples & Resources€¦ · Groundwork Hudson is an active organization in the lower Hudson Valley, working to make neglect-ed neighborhoods more livable and sustainable for the

RESOURCE LIST: Mid-Hudson Regional Sustainability Plan (http://bit.ly/2bJyVO6), LEED-ND Technical Guidance Manual (http://bit.ly/29t8Wb5), Climate Smart Communities Certification Manual (http://on.ny.gov/29KFjTU), DEC Land Use Toolkit (http://bit.ly/29Kketf), Mid-Hudson Sustainability and Smart Growth Toolkit (http://bit.ly/2bzUe5B)

Zoning for Natural Resources, and Sensitive

Environmental Resources

Photo by Carolyn Torma (CC BY-NC 4.0). Copyright 2006

American Planning Association.

RESOURCES

Mid-Hudson Regional Sustainability Plan Ch. 9.7 (9-10) Ch.7 (p.7-2), Ch.7.1.1 (p.7-2) Ch.7.3 (p.7-16), Ch.7.5 (p.7-20)

LEED-ND Technical Guidance Manual Ch.3.2—3.25 (p.78-83)

Climate Smart Communities Certification Man-ual Ch.6.17 (p.6-36), Ch.6.19 (p.6-39), Ch.7.13 (p.7-28)

DEC Land Use Toolkit Adopt a Natural Environmental Areas Overlay District Or-

dinance, Adopt a Transfer of Development Rights Plan/

Ordinance

Mid-Hudson Sustainability and Smart Growth Toolkit p.10, p. 27

DESCRIPTION

Preservation of natural resources and sensitive

environmental resources are critical to sustain-

able development. Such resources include

floodplains, wetlands and other waterbodies,

steep slopes, and sensitive habitat. Wetlands

are vital, as they recharge and purify waters,

control flooding and stormwater, limit erosion,

provide habitat for animal and plant life, as

much more. Westchester County has a vast

amounts of natural resources, provided in part

by the Hudson River. Westchester based com-

munities should leverage the large capacity of

natural resources by creating sustainable wa-

terfront development, complete with agricul-

ture, tourism, recreational facilities, and res-

taurants.

IMPLEMENTATION

Zoning schemes are plentiful in this area. Mu-nicipalities can utilize conservation and cluster development zoning, overlay districts, perfor-mance standards, incentive zoning, critical en-vironmental habitat area designation, or trans-ferable development rights. Moreover, locali-ties may require that there be no new buildings constructed within the 100-year floodplain as provided by either FEMA or local authorities. They can set requirements for conservation of land within 50 feet of wetlands, and within 100 feet of other waterbodies. Municipalities could also regulate wetlands above State and Federal standards. Localities may require avoidance of building on steep slopes altogether, but alter-natively could make sure that they are mini-mally impacted by development. Lastly, they can limit the amount of land clearance.

Agriculture and Open Spaces

A

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Page 11: Examples & Resources€¦ · Groundwork Hudson is an active organization in the lower Hudson Valley, working to make neglect-ed neighborhoods more livable and sustainable for the

BEST PRACTICE EXAMPLE

Cleveland, OH Cleveland, Ohio, has developed a Green Overlay District, which aids in effectively preserving natural resources and sensitive environmental resources. (Available at: http://planning.city.cleveland.oh.us/maps/pdf/ClevHudAp11.pdf). Hercules, CA Hercules, California, has adopted a Waterfront District Master Plan that requires protection of criti-cal nature and sensitive habitats around the district. (Available at: http://www.ci.hercules.ca.us/index.aspx?page=235).

RESOURCES

Westchester County, NY, Natural Resource Inventory Map (available at: http://giswww.westchestergov.com/wcgis/NRI.htm). Town of Eden, NY, Natural Resources Inventory (available at: http://www.edenny.org/images/fina_nat_res_inv.pdf). DEC: Conserving Natural Areas and Wildlife in Your Community (available at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/50083.html). DEC: Open Space Protection: Putting Local Plans Into Action (available at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/92603.html). The Conservation Fund: Strategic Conservation Planning (available at: http://www.conservationfund.org/what-we-do/strategic-conservation-planning). The Environmental Law Institute: Advancing the Implementation of Conservation Planning (available at: http://www.eli.org/land-biodiversity/advancing-implementation-conservation-planning). National Fish and Wildlife Service, National Fish, Wildlife, and Plants Climate Adaptation Strat-egy (available at: https://www.wildlifeadaptationstrategy.gov/index.php).

Examples & Resources

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Page 12: Examples & Resources€¦ · Groundwork Hudson is an active organization in the lower Hudson Valley, working to make neglect-ed neighborhoods more livable and sustainable for the

RESOURCE LIST: Mid-Hudson Regional Sustainability Plan (http://bit.ly/2bJyVO6), LEED-ND Technical Guidance Manual (http://bit.ly/29t8Wb5), Climate Smart Communities Certification Manual (http://on.ny.gov/29KFjTU), DEC Land Use Toolkit (http://bit.ly/29Kketf), Mid-Hudson Sustainability and Smart Growth Toolkit (http://bit.ly/2bzUe5B)

Planning for Low Impact Development (LID)

and Green Infrastructure

Green Roof

RESOURCES

Mid-Hudson Regional Sustainability Plan 8.5.2 (p.8-20)

LEED-ND Technical Guidance Manual Ch. 3.11 (p.72), 3.6 (p.67), 4.7 (p.91) , 4.10 (p.94), 4.13 (p.97), 5.3 (p.106)

Climate Smart Communities Certification Manual Ch. 7.16A.-B. (p.7-35), 7.23A.-B. (p.7-52), 6.8A.-B. (p.6-18), 6.14A.-B. (p.6-30), 7.12A.-B. (p.7-26), 6.18A.-B. (p.6-37)

Mid-Hudson Sustainability and Smart Growth Toolkit p. 83, p. 87

DESCRIPTION

Low Impact Development (LID) and green infrastructure, to-

gether, encompass a broad category of innovative strategies

for more sustainable development. An LID approach to land

development attempts to imitate nature in managing storm-

water and other processes in order to preserve water quality

and habitat. LID can be achieved via preserving and recreat-

ing natural landscapes and maximizing permeability for in-

creased drainage, and allowing treatment of stormwater as a

resource, as opposed to a product of waste. Green infrastruc-

ture is the creation of stormwater management systems that

imitate that of a natural and undisturbed drainage basin or

catchment area.

The benefits of LID and green infrastructure are not limited to

stormwater management, but encompass groundwater re-

charge, improvements to water quality, the creation or con-

servation of local habitats, and contribution to safer, healthi-

er, and more aesthetically pleasing neighborhoods.

IMPLEMENTATION

New or amended plans, ordinances, and regulations may be needed to en-able Low Impact Development and green infrastructure. Approaches to be included in these plans are: tree plantings, tree pits, vegetated swales, rain gardens, green roofs, porous pavement, stormwater planters, rain barrels or cisterns, bio-retention are-as, creation of a water conservation and re-use program, implementation of traffic calming measures. Commu-nities should also ensure that these amendments are consistent with their comprehensive plan.

Water

W

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BEST PRACTICE EXAMPLES

Watershed Resilience Improvement -Saw Mill Brook Watershed Implementation and motorization of green infrastructure and stormwater management practices in the area in order to improve watershed resiliency to flooding in light of climate changes. The project also seeks to improve quality of water and restoration of watersheds. (Available at: http://bit.ly/2bSDab5 ). Cleveland, Ohio Creation and use of a downspout disconnection program in order to allow connections of buildings directly to rain barrels in order to curb local flooding. (Available at: http://bit.ly/2bCOffS).

RESOURCES

U.S. EPA: Green Infrastructure (available at: https://www.epa.gov/green-infrastructure). Low Impact Development Center (available at: http://lowimpactdevelopment.org/projects/). Minnesota Pollution Control Agency: Stormwater Management-- Low Impact Development and

Green Infrastructure (available at: http://bit.ly/2bG6MrW). University of Denver (available at: http://bit.ly/2bEMEIg). U.S. Green Building Council (available at: http://www.usgbc.org/credits/ss6). EPA- Water Infrastructure: Successful Strategies for Local Leadership (available at: https://

www.epa.gov/sustainable-water-infrastructure). EPA Gov - Green Infrastructure Case Studies: Municipal Policies for Managing Stormwater with

Green Infrastructure (available at: https://www.epa.gov/sustainable-water-infrastructure). NYC Gov- Stormwater Management (available at: http://www.nyc.gov/html/gbee/downloads/pdf/

stormwater.pdf). US EPA- Reducing Heat Island Compendium of Strategies, Cool Pavements (available at: https://

www.epa.gov/heat-islands/heat-island-compendium). NYC Cool Roofs (available at: http://www.nyc.gov/html/coolroofs/html/home/home.shtml).

Examples & Resources

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RESOURCELIST:Mid‐HudsonRegionalSustainabilityPlan(http://bit.ly/2bJyVO6),LEED‐NDTechnicalGuidanceManual(http://bit.ly/29t8Wb5),ClimateSmartCommunitiesCerti icationManual(http://on.ny.gov/29KFjTU),DECLandUseToolkit(http://bit.ly/29Kketf),Mid‐HudsonSustainabilityandSmartGrowthToolkit(http://bit.ly/2bzUe5B)

Z L I D (LID) G I

A Vegetated Swale. 

RESOURCES

Mid‐HudsonRegionalSustainabilityPlan8.5.2(p.8‐20)

LEED‐NDTechnicalGuidanceManualCh.3.11(p.72),3.6(p.67),4.7(p.91),4.10(p.94),4.13(p.97),5.3(p.106)

ClimateSmartCommunitiesCerti icationManualCh.7.16A.‐B.(p.7‐35),7.23A.‐B.(p.7‐52),6.8A.‐B.(p.6‐18),6.14A.‐B.(p.6‐30),7.12A.‐B.(p.7‐26),6.18A.‐B.(p.6‐37)

Mid‐HudsonSustainabilityandSmartGrowthToolkitp.83,p.87

DESCRIPTION

LowImpactDevelopment(LID)andgreeninfrastructure,to‐gether,encompassabroadcategoryofinnovativestrategiesformoresustainabledevelopment.AnLIDapproachtolanddevelopmentattemptstoimitatenatureinmanagingstorm‐waterandotherprocessesinordertopreservewaterqualityandhabitat.LIDcanbeachievedviapreservingandrecreat‐ingnaturallandscapesandmaximizingpermeabilityforin‐creaseddrainage,andallowingtreatmentofstormwaterasaresource,asopposedtoaproductofwaste.Greeninfrastruc‐tureisthecreationofstormwatermanagementsystemsthatimitatethatofanaturalandundisturbeddrainagebasinorcatchmentarea.

Thebene itsofLIDandgreeninfrastructurearenotlimitedtostormwatermanagement,butencompassgroundwaterre‐charge,improvementstowaterquality,thecreationorcon‐servationoflocalhabitats,andcontributiontosafer,healthi‐er,andmoreaestheticallypleasingneighborhoods.

IMPLEMENTATION

NeworamendedzoningregulationsmaybeneededtoenableLowImpactDevelopmentandgreeninfrastruc‐ture.Siteplanandsubdivisionregula‐tionsshouldrequireeachprojectfordevelopmenttosubmitastormwatermanagementplanforapproval,withsetstormwatercriteriaprovided.Siteplanandsubdivisionsregulationsshouldalsorequirestreettreestoshadeandencouragemultimodaltransportationandmore.Municipali‐tiescanalsozoneforgreenerparkinglotdesign,conservationandrevegeta‐tionof loodplains,

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BESTPRACTICEEXAMPLE

PoughkeepsieUnderwearFactoryDemonstrationProjectConstructionofagreeninfrastructuresystem,inordertoimprovethewaterqualityofrunoffintothelocalcreek,whilereducingvolumetoalleviatethepotentialfor lash loodingwithintheurbanwatershed.Theprojectencompassesabioretentionareatocaptureandtreatstormwateronsite,abioswaleforrunoffredirection,aswellasmodi iedtreepits,andpermeablepavement.(Availableat:http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/100923.html).

RESOURCES

U.S.EPA:GreenInfrastructure(availableat:https://www.epa.gov/green‐infrastructure). LowImpactDevelopmentCenter(availableat:http://lowimpactdevelopment.org/projects/). MinnesotaPollutionControlAgency:StormwaterManagement‐‐LowImpactDevelopmentand

GreenInfrastructure(availableat:http://bit.ly/2bG6MrW). UniversityofDenver(availableat:http://bit.ly/2bEMEIg). U.S.GreenBuildingCouncil(availableat:http://www.usgbc.org/credits/ss6). EPA‐WaterInfrastructure:SuccessfulStrategiesforLocalLeadership(availableat:https://

www.epa.gov/sustainable‐water‐infrastructure). EPAGov‐GreenInfrastructureCaseStudies:MunicipalPoliciesforManagingStormwaterwith

GreenInfrastructure(availableat:https://www.epa.gov/sustainable‐water‐infrastructure). NYCGov‐StormwaterManagement(availableat:http://www.nyc.gov/html/gbee/downloads/pdf/

stormwater.pdf). USEPA‐ReducingHeatIslandCompendiumofStrategies,CoolPavements(availableat:https://

www.epa.gov/heat‐islands/heat‐island‐compendium). NYCCoolRoofs(availableat:http://www.nyc.gov/html/coolroofs/html/home/home.shtml).

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RESOURCE LIST: Mid-Hudson Regional Sustainability Plan (http://bit.ly/2bJyVO6), LEED-ND Technical Guidance Manual (http://bit.ly/29t8Wb5), Climate Smart Communities Certification Manual (http://on.ny.gov/29KFjTU), DEC Land Use Toolkit (http://bit.ly/29Kketf), Mid-Hudson Sustainability and Smart Growth Toolkit (http://bit.ly/2bzUe5B)

Planning for Coastal Resiliency

Ecologically-Enhanced Shoreline Protection

RESOURCES

Mid-Hudson Regional Sustainability Plan Ch. 4.2.2 (p.4-16), Ch. 4.8 (4-18).

LEED-ND Technical Guidance Manual Ch. 3.20 (p.78)

Climate Smart Communities Certification Manual Ch. 7.18 (p.7-41) Ch 7.20 (p. 7-46).

Mid-Hudson Smart Growth Toolkit p. 89

DESCRIPTION

Impacts from climate change are posing signifi-cant threats to coastal communities. Damage caused by increasingly strong storms and sea lev-el rise will worsen in the following years. It is im-portant to keep in mind that communities along the Hudson River will see the effects of flooding, as well. Municipal action is necessary to protect the health, safety, and general welfare of the local citizens. There are numerous coastally resilient programs and policies that can be implemented to combat this continuing problem.

IMPLEMENTATION

There are many ways that local governments can plan for coastal resiliency. Local govern-ments can implement livable communities to help strengthen the community’s resources while protecting open space from develop-ment. Preservation of floodplains will pro-vide temporary storage of floodwaters. Im-plementation of wetland and water body conservation, or conservation easements to protect important natural resources — such as wetlands — can promote coastal resilien-cy. Use natural or ecologically enhanced shoreline protection to prevent erosion and flooding. Creation of watershed management programs can also aid in protection of coastal habitats. Some communities may want to, or be forced to plan for retreat.

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BEST PRACTICE EXAMPLE

Port Ewen, NY (Esopus Meadows)

A degrading bulkhead was destroyed and then replaced with a more natural shoreline that included

vegetation and a soft gabion wall. (Available at: https://www.hrnerr.org/hudson-river-sustainable-

shorelines/).

RESOURCES

DEC, Tidal Wetland Guidance Document: Living Shoreline Techniques in the Marine District of New York State (available at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/docs/fish_marine_pdf/dmrlivingshoreguide.pdf)

National Flood Insurance Program (available at: http://www.fema.gov/national-flood-insurance-program).

DEC, Hudson River National Estuarine Research Reserve, Hudson River Sustainable Shore-lines (available at: https://www.hrnerr.org/hudson-river-sustainable-shorelines/).

DEC, Shoreline Stabilization (available at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/permits/50534.html). DEC, Shoreline Stabilization Techniques (available at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/

permits/67096.html). DEC, Coastal Erosion Control Design

(available at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/86534.html). Filipowicz, Amy B. (2006) The Guide to Ecologically-Based Stream Restoration in New York’s

Coastal Watersheds New York, NY, Vision 2020: New York City Comprehensive Waterfront Plan: Climate Resili-

ence Section: (available at: http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/planning/download/pdf/plans-studies/vision-2020-cwp/vision2020/chapter3_goal8.pdf).

New York, NY, Urban Waterfront Adaptive Strategies (available at: http://on.nyc.gov/2bTQP2N).

Northwest Regional Planning Commission The Shoreline Stabilization Handbook for Lake Champlain and Other Inland Lakes (available at: http://nsgd.gso.uri.edu/lcsg/lcsgh04001.pdf).

United States Army Corps of Engineers (available at: http://bit.ly/2c81cM7). EPA - A Quick Guide to Developing Watershed Plans to Restore and Protect Our Waters

(available at: http://bit.ly/2c8257x).

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RESOURCE LIST: Mid-Hudson Regional Sustainability Plan (http://bit.ly/2bJyVO6), LEED-ND Technical Guidance Manual (http://bit.ly/29t8Wb5), Climate Smart Communities Certification Manual (http://on.ny.gov/29KFjTU), DEC Land Use Toolkit (http://bit.ly/29Kketf), Mid-Hudson Sustainability and Smart Growth Toolkit (http://bit.ly/2bzUe5B)

Zoning for Coastal Resiliency

Photo by Sylvia Lewis (CC BY-NC 4.0). Copyright 1968 American Planning Association.

RESOURCES

Climate Smart Communities Certification Manual Sec. 7.20 (p.7-46)

DEC Land Use Toolkit Create a Coastal Overlay District (Coastal Com-munities)

Mid-Hudson Smart Growth Toolkit p. 27

DESCRIPTION

Impacts from climate change such as, sea level rise are posing significant threats to coastal communities. It is important to keep in mind that communities along the Hudson River will see the effects of flooding, as well. Municipal action is necessary to protect the health, safety, and general welfare of the local citizens. There are many coastally resilient zoning changes that can be implemented to better prepare for and adapt to the problem at hand.

IMPLEMENTATION

There are countless actions that local gov-ernments can take to become more coast-ally resilient. Many of these require new or revised plans, ordinances, and regula-tions. Local governments can require con-sideration of sea-level rise for all planning and projects in coastal areas to ensure that buildings and infrastructure are sus-tainable, allow and create coastal overlay districts in zoning codes to consider adoptive protective ordinances, which limit or regulate development in these areas. Other possible zoning programs include incentive based zoning and trans-fer of development rights programs.

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BEST PRACTICE EXAMPLE

Cleveland, Ohio The Cleveland City Planning Commission is developing a Green Design Overlay District zoning amendment in order to incorporate green design guidelines in planning for the future. In part, the district will require protection of wetlands, floodplains, habitat, and endangered species. (Available at: http://planning.city.cleveland.oh.us/maps/pdf/ClevHudAp11.pdf).

RESOURCES

DEC, Sea-level Rise (available at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/energy/45202.html). DEC, New York State Sea-Level Rise Task Force Report (available at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/

docs/administration_pdf/slrtffinalrep.pdf). Georgetown Climate Center, Sea-level rise Toolkit (available at: http://

www.georgetownclimate.org/files/report/Adaptation_Tool_Kit_SLR.pdf). Kingston, NY, Waterfront Flooding Task Force Final Report (available at: http://

www.kingston-ny.gov/filestorage/8463/10432/10440/10479/12782/10486/10490/Kingston_Tidal_Waterfront_Flooding_Task_Force_-_Final_Report.pdf).

Climate Central, Surging Seas: Sea-level rise Risk Analysis (available at: http://slr.s3.amazonaws.com/SurgingSeas.pdf).

NYS 2100 Commission Report (available at: http://www.governor.ny.gov/sites/governor.ny.gov/files/archive/assets/documents/NYS2100.pdf).

Town of East Hampton’s Coastal Overlay District Case Study (available at: http://ecode360.com/10414408).

Model Bylaw for Effectively Managing Coastal Floodplain Development Case Study (available at: http://www.capecodcommission.org/resources/bylaws/Coastal_Floodplain_Bylaw_Dec2009.pdf).

Village of Mamaroneck NY - Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (available at: http://www.village.mamaroneck.ny.us/Pages/MamaroneckNY_WebDocs/COMPLETE%20WORKING%20DRAFT.pdf).

Town of Ulysses Conservation District (available at: http://www.ulysses.ny.us/pdf/Zoning-Conservation-DRAFT-9-10-12.pdf).

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RESOURCE LIST: Mid-Hudson Regional Sustainability Plan (http://bit.ly/2bJyVO6), LEED-ND Technical Guidance Manual (http://bit.ly/29t8Wb5), Climate Smart Communities Certification Manual (http://on.ny.gov/29KFjTU), DEC Land Use Toolkit (http://bit.ly/29Kketf), Mid-Hudson Sustainability and Smart Growth Toolkit (http://bit.ly/2bzUe5B)

Planning for Drought

Drought Resistant Landscape

Photo by Caroline Torma (CC BY-NC 4.0). Copyright 2007 American Planning Association.

RESOURCES

Mid-Hudson Regional Sustainability Plan Ch. 8.1.5 (p.8-13)

Climate Smart Communities Certification Manual Ch. 7.23 (p.7-52), Ch. 7.25 (p.7-56)

Mid-Hudson Smart Growth Toolkit p. 91

DESCRIPTION

Drought is a major issue for many local govern-ments because it poses significant threats to a com-munity’s economy and drinking water systems. It is true that New York State is expected to receive greater annual precipitation on average, however, that increased precipitation is forecasted to come at times when it is not needed. Strategies for reduc-tion in water consumption will not only reduce de-mand for local water resources, but will decrease energy consumption and resiliency to droughts.

IMPLEMENTATION

New or amended plans, ordinances, and regulations may be needed to enable prop-er planning mechanisms and techniques for drought planning. There are many plan-ning mechanisms that can be used to miti-gate drought. Maintenance of a long-term water supply can ensure health, safety, and a future for the local community. Localities may also generate target water reduction rates for future years, and incentivize the use of native and drought tolerant plants and landscaping. This target should include future population growth, infrastructure im-provements and educational programs for the public. It is always vital to keep in mind that municipalities should educate the com-munity on drought problems and solutions.

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BEST PRACTICE EXAMPLE

Massachusetts Water Research Authority Serving approximately 2.2 million people, the Massachusetts Water Research Authority (MWRA) takes care of a population similar to that of the Mid-Hudson region. The MWRA has successfully im-plemented various efficiency measures. These measures include, but are not limited to: retrofitting homes with lower-flowing plumbing equipment, detecting and repairing leaks in local pipes,, devel-oping a water management program for local businesses and municipal buildings, improving me-ters for more accuracy in water use tracking, and conducting public engagement and information programs.

RESOURCES

Review WaterSense program guidelines and eligibility requirements (available at: https://www3.epa.gov/watersense/partners/join.html).

Complete and sign a Promotional Partners Agreement (available at: https://www3.epa.gov/watersense/docs/ws_partnership_promo_508_2-1-13.pdf

US EPA, Source Water Protection (available at: https://www.epa.gov/sourcewaterprotection). DOH, Drinking Water Protection Program (available at: http://www.health.ny.gov/

environmental/water/drinking/).

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RESOURCE LIST: Mid-Hudson Regional Sustainability Plan (http://bit.ly/2bJyVO6), LEED-ND Technical Guidance Manual (http://bit.ly/29t8Wb5), Climate Smart Communities Certification Manual (http://on.ny.gov/29KFjTU), DEC Land Use Toolkit (http://bit.ly/29Kketf), Mid-Hudson Sustainability and Smart Growth Toolkit (http://bit.ly/2bzUe5B)

Zoning for Drought

Drought Resistant Landscape

Photo by Caroline Torma (CC BY-NC 4.0). Copyright 2007 American Planning Association.

RESOURCES

Mid-Hudson Regional Sustainability Plan Ch. 8.1.5 (p.8-13)

Climate Smart Communities Certification Manual Ch. 7.23 (p.7-52), Ch. 7.25 (p.7-56)

Mid-Hudson Smart Growth Toolkit p. 91

DESCRIPTION

Drought is a major issue for many local govern-ments because it poses significant threats to a com-munity’s economy and drinking water systems. It is true that New York State is expected to receive greater annual precipitation on average, however, that increased precipitation is forecasted to come at times when it is not needed. Strategies for reduc-tion in water consumption will not only reduce de-mand for local water resources, but will decrease energy consumption and resiliency to droughts.

IMPLEMENTATION

There are many zoning techniques that can be used to mitigate drought. For one, munic-ipalities can implement plans for infrastruc-ture improvements for vulnerable environ-mental justice communities. Moreover, zon-ing for future drought conditions, can in-clude the requirement of reducing water consumption, utilization of more efficient water use areas, providing citizens an oppor-tunity to reduce the demand on water re-sources, all of which increase resiliency of short-term droughts. Building and infrastruc-ture design guidelines are critical as well. Municipalities may want to set off a drought district—or areas most susceptible to drought—with applicable requirements to meet. Such a district would include an area that is more prone to drought related issues.

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BEST PRACTICE EXAMPLE

New Orleans, LA The landscape and stormwater management section of the zoning code in new Orleans, Louisiana, has requirements to have “drought-tolerant” native plant species, with irrigation systems installed. The code sets forth requirements for these plants, and even covers how said plants and landscaping must be installed. (Available at: http://czo.nola.gov/article-23/).

RESOURCES

Review WaterSense program guidelines and eligibility requirements (available at: https://www3.epa.gov/watersense/partners/join.html).

Complete and sign a Promotional Partners Agreement (available at: https://www3.epa.gov/watersense/docs/ws_partnership_promo_508_2-1-13.pdf

US EPA, Source Water Protection (available at: https://www.epa.gov/sourcewaterprotection). DOH, Drinking Water Protection Program (available at: http://www.health.ny.gov/

environmental/water/drinking/).

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RESOURCELIST:Mid‐HudsonRegionalSustainabilityPlan(http://bit.ly/2bJyVO6),LEED‐NDTechnicalGuidanceManual(http://bit.ly/29t8Wb5),ClimateSmartCommunitiesCerti icationManual(http://on.ny.gov/29KFjTU),DECLandUseToolkit(http://bit.ly/29Kketf),Mid‐HudsonSustainabilityandSmartGrowthToolkit(http://bit.ly/2bzUe5B)

P F M

Copyright 2008 James Schwab, AICP (CC BY‐NC 4.0), from the American Planning Associa on’s Image Library. 

RESOURCES

Mid‐HudsonRegionalSustainabilityPlanCh.7.5.2(p.7‐21),Ch.8(p.8‐1),8.5.2(p.8‐20),Ch.9(p.9‐1)

LEED‐NDTechnicalGuidanceManualCh.3.11(p.72),Ch.3.20(p.78).

ClimateSmartCommunitiesCerti icationManualCh.7.10(p.7‐22),Ch.7.11(p.7‐24)

DECLandUseToolkitNaturalEnvironmentalAreasOverlayDistrictOrdinanceConductaClimateVulnerabilityAssessmentClimateSmartCommunitiesClimateSmartResiliencyPlanningTool

Mid‐HudsonSustainability&SmartGrowthToolkitp.82andp.87

DESCRIPTION

Floodplainmanagementisamajorissueformanylocalgov‐ernments.Therearemanywayslocalgovernmentscanuseplan‐ningmethodstomitigate looddamage.Properplanningises‐sentialforproper loodplainmanagementpreparations.Neworamendedplans,ordi‐nances,andregulationsmaybeneededforimplementa‐tion.

IMPLEMENTATION

Local governments can plan for the preservation of agriculture and openspaces, create projects thatwill identify and reduce risks fromweak infra‐structuretoprepareforclimatechange.Theseprojectscanincludeplanningfor a climate resiliency strategy to include: protecting low‐lying treatmentinfrastructurefromstormsurges, lood‐proo ingpumps,integratingpumpinginfrastructureintostormwaterandef luentoutfalls,andresizingandreplac‐ing culverts. Implement Low Impact Development into its planning to pre‐serve and recreate natural landscape features, andminimizing impervious‐ness to create drainage that treats stormwater as a resource rather than awaste product. Require consideration of climate change in planning docu‐mentstoconsiderexistinginfrastructureorbuildingnewinfrastructure.Cre‐ateorupdateawatershedassessmenttoidentify loodingandwaterqualitypriorities to identify projects and strategies to improve climate adaption.Adopta loodplainmanagementandprotectionordinancetoreducevulnera‐bility to looding and erosion. Adopt a natural environmental area overlaydistrictordinancetoregulatedevelopmentinbufferareas.Conductaclimatevulnerability assessment to assess projected climate change impacts andtheir relationship to local resources and conditions. Municipalities can usethe Climate Smart Communities Climate Smart Resiliency Planning Tool toassessrisks to loodingeventsandhowtoaddress thoserisks. Improve thereliabilityofwatertreatmentanddistributionsystemsandwastewatertreat‐ment and collection systems. Prevent impervious surface cover tomitigatelooding.Createsustainablestormwatermanagementinfrastructuretohelpwith looding,throughcapturingstormwaterwhereitoriginates.

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RESOURCES

DEC,WatershedManagement(availableat:http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/25563.html).HudsonRiverWatershedAlliance,watershedplans(availableat:http://bit.ly/2cDQVgl).DOS,WatershedPlans‐ProtectingandRestoringWaterQuality(availableat:http://on.ny.gov/2bUDAjU).

FEMA,FloodplainManagementOrdinances(availableat:http://www.fema.gov/ loodplain‐management‐ordinances).

FEMA,StayDryProgram(availableat:http://bit.ly/2cDQv9C).PaceLawSchool,FloodplainProtectionOrdinances(availableat:https://appsrv.pace.edu/gainingground/).

NewYork,NY,StatenIslandBluebelt:ANaturalSolutiontoStormwaterManagement(availableat:http://www.nyc.gov/html/dep/html/dep_projects/bluebelt.shtml).

NewYorkDepartmentofState,LocalOpenSpacePlanningGuide(availableat:http://on.ny.gov/2clVqZv).

ConservingNaturalAreasandWildlifeinYourCommunity:SmartGrowthStrategiesforPro‐tectingtheBiologicalDiversityofNewYork’sHudsonRiverValley(availableat:http://www.nyc.gov/html/dep/html/dep_projects/bluebelt.shtml).

USEPA:CombinedSewerOver lowTechnologyFactSheet,In lowReduction(https://www.epa.gov/science‐and‐technology/water‐science).

AnOrdinanceAmendingtheCodeofCheltenham,Cheltenham,PA:OrdinanceforSumpPumpandGroundwaterStandards:(availableat:https://www.epa.gov/science‐and‐technology/water‐science).

NewYorkStateModelSewerUseLaw(availableat:http://www.dec.ny.gov/chemical/8729.html).

BESTPRACTICEEXAMPLES

CulvertAnalysisResizingTheNYSDECHudsonRiverEstuaryProgramproposedaCulvertAnalysisandResizingProject.TheprojectwouldexaminetheRegion’sditchesandculvertsinordertodeterminewhichsystemsarecapableofhandlingincreasedwater lowsexpectedtooccurastheclimatecontinuestochange.Thebene itofthisinitiative,localgovernmentswillbecapableoftargetingfundstospeci icallydesig‐natedvulnerableareastoprotectfromthe loodingofroadwaysandfacilities.(Availableat:http://bit.ly/2bSDab5).PoughkeepsieUnderwearFactoryDemonstrationProjectClearwaterInc.,DesignDynamics,LLC,andothersaidedintheconstructionofagreeninfrastruc‐turesystematthehistoricUnderwearFactoryinPoughkeepsie,NY.Thesystemincorporatesmodi‐iedtreepits,abioretentionarea,andpermeablepavementtocaptureandtreatstormwater.(Availableat:http://bit.ly/2bSDab5).

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RESOURCE LIST: Mid-Hudson Regional Sustainability Plan (http://bit.ly/2bJyVO6), LEED-ND Technical Guidance Manual (http://bit.ly/29t8Wb5), Climate Smart Communities Certification Manual (http://on.ny.gov/29KFjTU), DEC Land Use Toolkit (http://bit.ly/29Kketf), Mid-Hudson Sustainability and Smart Growth Toolkit (http://bit.ly/2bzUe5B)

Zoning for Floodplain Management

Copyright 2008 James Schwab, AICP (CC BY-NC 4.0), from the American Planning Association’s Image Library.

RESOURCES

Mid-Hudson Regional Sustainability Plan Ch. 8 (P.8-1)

Climate Smart Communities Certification Manual Ch. 6.2 (p.6-6), Ch. 6.19 (p.6-39), Ch. 7.17 (p.7-38)

DESCRIPTION

Flooding is a major issue for many local governments. There are many ways local governments can use zon-ing methods to mitigate floodplains. New or amended plans, ordinances, and regulations may be needed for implementation. Proper zoning laws will help local governments that ex-perience flood issues, to overcome them.

IMPLEMENTATION

There are many ways a local government can use zoning laws to mitigate flood issues. Local governments can mitigate flood-ing through protecting agriculture and open space, which can be accomplished through mechanisms such as the purchase of development rights, permanent easements, or zoning re-strictions. Another method is the Implementation of water planning to create environmental mechanisms that will allow water to infiltrate into soil. Use of smart growth principles should be applied to zoning laws to help protect open space and natural areas that will preserve ecological functions such as storm water management and flood mitigation. Preserva-tion of natural resources like forests, wetlands, rivers, lakes, floodplains and coastal shorelines, provide storm water regu-lation and protect important ecological functions. Protection of wetlands and forests creates storm water holding areas, which then allow the water to slowly infiltrate into the soil. Lastly, there should be local enactment of flood elevation that is higher than the base flood elevation in vulnerable areas.

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BEST PRACTICE EXAMPLE

Black Creek Corridor Climate Change Mitigation and Recreational Access Project The Corridor safeguards the lands along the creek and floodplain area to mitigate ecological and

property damage from severe flooding. The lands are permanently protected by the plan. (Available at: http://bit.ly/2bSDab5).

RESOURCES

The New York State Smart Growth Public Infrastructure Policy Act provides similar smart growth criteria that can also be incorporated into local land-use regulations.

EPA Smart Growth Guidance and Best Practices (available at: https://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth).

Tompkins County pedestrian neighborhood zone model ordinance (available at: http://community-that-works.org/docs/DraftPNZRegulations.pdf).

Floating zone model ordinance (available at: http://bit.ly/2cqlLo1). LEED ND Planners Guide and Model Ordinance (available at: http://bit.ly/2bR47sa). DEC, 2013 Open Space Conservation Plan Revision (available at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/

lands/317.html). DEC, Conserving Natural Areas and Wildlife in Your Community (available at: http://

www.dec.ny.gov/lands/50083.html).

DEC, Hudson River Estuary Program Code and Ordinance Worksheet for Development Rules in New York State (available at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/docs/remediation_hudson_pdf/

cownys.pdf). DEC, Conserving Natural Areas and Wildlife in Your Community (available at: http://

www.dec.ny.gov/docs/remediation_hudson_pdf/hrebch.pdf). DEC, Small Wetlands Conservation (available at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/docs/

remediation_hudson_pdf/hrebswres.pdf).

Aspen Institute, Nature as a Foundation of Economy: Investing in Natural Infrastructure for Conservation Supporting Human Development (available at: http://bit.ly/2cyHIBR).

Center for Watershed Protection, Watershed Forestry Resource Guide (available at: http://

forestsforwatersheds.org/forests-and-drinking-water/).

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RESOURCE LIST: Mid-Hudson Regional Sustainability Plan (http://bit.ly/2bJyVO6), LEED-ND Technical Guidance Manual (http://bit.ly/29t8Wb5), Climate Smart Communities Certification Manual (http://on.ny.gov/29KFjTU), DEC Land Use Toolkit (http://bit.ly/29Kketf), Mid-Hudson Sustainability and Smart Growth Toolkit (http://bit.ly/2bzUe5B)

Grey Water Reuse Systems

Greywater water garden at Yale’s Kroon Hall.

RESOURCES

Mid-Hudson Regional Sustainability Plan p.8-23

LEED-ND Technical Guidance Manual p.99

Climate Smart Communities Certification Manual Sec. 7.16 (p.7-35), Sec. 7.23 (p.7-52)

DESCRIPTION

Grey water is wastewater from bathroom sinks, show-

ers, tubs, and washing machines that is minimally con-

taminated and can be re-used on-site. Grey water sys-

tems use the recycled water on-site for uses that do not

require potable water, such as landscape toilets and irri-

gation of landscapes. Reusing grey water not only saves

water, but keeps it out of sewer and septic systems, suc-

cessfully reducing the chance that it will pollute local

water bodies. It also reduces stormwater runoff and in-

creases stormwater reuse.

IMPLEMENTATION

New or amended plans, ordinances, and regulations may be needed to enable grey water reuse. Municipalities can de-velop and implement rainwater harvest-ing and reuse program, utilizing the dis-tribution of rain barrels and the use of cisterns and other practices for the har-vesting of water. Water harvesting prac-tices (especially grey water reuse) could be regulated by state or local codes. Communities should ensure that any amendments are consistent with their comprehensive plan. Other grey water initiatives could work towards increasing local understanding of alternative water usage systems.

Water

W

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BEST PRACTICE EXAMPLES

New York City, New York The Willets Point Redevelopment Project is in Queens, New York. Graywater collection from storm-water capture systems, condensate reclamation systems, the lavatories of public restrooms, and ap-proved wastewater treatment systems. Graywater may be reused for flushing toilets and urinals, cooling tower makeup, and irrigation systems located in the same lot as the recycling systems. (Available at: http://bit.ly/2bHhUlk).

RESOURCES

NYS Department of Environmental Conservation: Potential Reuses of Greywater and Reclaimed Wastewater in New York State (available at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/docs/water_pdf/waterresue.pdf). Greywater Action: About Greywater Reuse (available at: http://greywateraction.org/contentabout-greywater-reuse/). U.S. Green Building Council (available at: http://www.greywater-systems.com/regs.htm). Potential Reuses of Greywater and Reclaimed Wastewater in New York State (available at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/docs/water_pdf/waterresue.pdf).

Examples & Resources

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RESOURCE LIST: Mid-Hudson Regional Sustainability Plan (http://bit.ly/2bJyVO6), LEED-ND Technical Guidance Manual (http://bit.ly/29t8Wb5), Climate Smart Communities Certification Manual (http://on.ny.gov/29KFjTU), DEC Land Use Toolkit (http://bit.ly/29Kketf), Mid-Hudson Sustainability and Smart Growth Toolkit (http://bit.ly/2bzUe5B)

Public Participation and Task Forces

RESOURCES

LEED-ND Technical Guidance Manual p.14

Climate Smart Communities Certification Manual Sec. 1.2 (p. 1-2)

DESCRIPTION

Keeping the public informed and in-volved on sustainable development ac-tivities is essential to the planning pro-cess. Public participation can help eval-uate climate hazards, discuss and prior-itize vulnerabilities and develop possi-ble visions for the future of the commu-nity. Public participation helps decision makers better understand the needs and desires of the community and can help make more informed and sustaina-ble decisions. Task forces can be created to identify areas of concern that are in need of sus-tainable development, science and re-search for planning and development problems in the community, and evalu-ate solutions to those issues.

IMPLEMENTATION

Allow the opportunity for public participation in all steps of the planning and development process. Educate the public on best practices and planned solutions. Hold hear-ings that allow the public to contribute and comment on best practices and plans, both before and after implemen-tation.

Task forces can be created to study various community issues including: transportation, sea level rise, climate change, sustainable development, and many more. Such task forces can be given the authority to review and com-ment on planning and zoning changes and the utilization of various best practices. It is important to invite various individuals from diverse constituencies to a task force, as bringing different interests to the table makes it easier to identify concerns and work towards more meaningful and impactful solutions.

The public engagement process seeks important insights from various groups, such as: elected officials, govern-ment officials (from local, state, and federal levels), busi-ness owners/employees, representatives of non-profit organizations, local experts and university researchers, members of the general public.

Community Engagement

C

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BEST PRACTICE EXAMPLES

Sydney, New York The Village of Sydney put together a long term plan for recovery and resilience, which was unani-mously adopted in 2013. As a result of a grant from the State of New York, Sydney focused their Long Term Community Recovery Strategy on economic enhancement, and took steps to engage the community, in particular a group of community members joined the taskforce. There was also a series of stakeholder interviews and a visioning workshop in order to garner a better understand-ing of what the community wanted in Sydney for the future. (Available at: http://bit.ly/2lyLWQx). Albuquerque, New Mexico The Climate Action Task Force drafted and presented the mayor with a proposed Climate Action plan. The draft plan analyzed differences between the community’s desired growth against the type of development that was currently taking place, which was the result of existing city policies and regulations. (Available at: https://www.cabq.gov/cap).

Boston, Massachusetts Responding to a proposal for a ten acre development within Columbia Point, the Boston Redevelop-ment Authority (BRA) embarked on a master planning process for the development. Before plan-ning started, a task force was formed to advise the BRA. The task force held roughly 20 regular working sessions, which were all open to the general public. They also sponsored multiple commu-nity wide meetings to further engage and include the general population in the process. The task force as well as the community at large provided feedback on the draft master plan. (Available at: http://bit.ly/2byqOat).

RESOURCES

Transportation Research Board, 2009. Driving and the Built Environment: The Effects of Compact Development on Motorized Travel, Energy Use, and CO2 Emissions (available at: http://onlinepubs.trb.org/Onlinepubs/sr/sr298.pdf).

Sea Level Risk Task Force, 2010. New York State Sea Level Rise Task Force Report to the Leg-islature (available at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/docs/administration_pdf/slrtffinalrep.pdf).

Kingston, NY, Waterfront Flooding Task Force Final Report (available at: http://www.kingston-ny.gov/waterfrontfloodingtaskforce).

Community Resilience Building: Get on the right path to resilience today . . . (available at: https://www.communityresiliencebuilding.com/).

Long Term Community Recovery Planning Process: A Self-Help Guide (available at: https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/6337)

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