LAND USE PLANNING
Protect Newfound’s Rural Character
Along with the clear and clean water of Newfound Lake, the region’s rural character is also a cherished feature. While water quality is measurable, rural is a term that is open to interpretation. The NLRA is recruiting members to become more involved in local and statewide planning organizations and establish policies that will benefit the lake and surrounding environment. The long-term success and appeal of this region as a place to live, work and invest in future enterprise depends on policies that prevent environmental degradation.
Using scientific data, including GIS mapping, to identify high value resources as relate to water quality, these citizen planners work to set the stage for responsible development to achieve growth and conservation policies that ensure the long terms sustainability of this region.
MODEL ORDINANCES
The NLRA and Resilience Planning and Design, with input from Newfound watershed towns, have drafted several model ordinances to align Town Master Plans with regulations designed to achieve local visions. The Models include:
- Riparian Buffer Protection
- Steep Slopes and Highly Erodible Land Protection
- Viewshed Protection
- Low-impact Development
The models include an innovative, flexible and powerful method to balance environmental protection with thoughtful development through Conditional Use Permits; essentially, a performance-based approval process. Please contact the NLRA is you have any questions about using these innovative tools for your Town.
CITIZEN PLANNER TRAINING
We’ve heard your voices! Let’s work together with Planning Boards and Conservation Commissions to change regulations and match YOUR vision for YOUR town.