Zoning and Subdivision standards: Learn more about Conservation Subdivision from the National NEMO Network and Natural Lands Trust. Download the NEMO Fact Sheet Many design solutions to protect open space or natural resources are possible: residential clustering, buffering streams, stormwater infiltration, built wetlands to treat wastewater and stormwater. On many sites, these solutions may result in lower net development costs, especially if standards are clear from the beginning or preliminary plan stages. Has your community adopted clear preliminary or sketch plan standards? For example, until recently, few local jurisdictions required wetland delineation at preliminary plan. After significant investments in engineering, local protestors opposed disturbance of such water resources only when they became aware of the proposed site plan at later hearings.

• Legal Process
  Undoubtedly your local land use planning decisions are made in the context of your state enabling legislation. There are also state and federal regulations for water use and management. To access the appropriate agencies within your state, go to state links.
• Resources
  Technical and financial resources do exist. See more about the Chesapeake Bay Program - America's Premier Watershed Restoration Program. If you don't currently have water quality data, you can start with a volunteer program. See more about volunteer monitoring
• Don't forget: enforcement and education