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NATURAL RESOURCES <br /> POLICIES <br /> The following policies are proposed to guide future preservation and management of natural resources <br /> in Pequot Lakes: <br /> Protect and enhance natural resources and open space contributing to the character and vitality of <br /> Pequot Lakes.While it may seem that Pequot Lakes has an abundance of natural resources and open <br /> spaces, unmanaged growth and development could degrade the City's natural resources.The City must <br /> actively protect existing natural resources and enhance those that contribute to Pequot Lakes' rural <br /> character. <br /> Direct future development away from significant and/or sensitive natural resources and toward <br /> suitable areas with existing infrastructure and proper soil and slope characteristics. <br /> Benton MacKaye, a legendary land-use planner, compared urban growth to flood waters that must be <br /> controlled through a series of barriers that he referred to as"levees". Levees include significant <br /> topographic and vegetative features such as hills and bluffs,forested areas, lakeshores and other <br /> sensitive natural features. Pequot Lakes should limit development around these features and encourage <br /> development in more suitable areas. <br /> Promote development and construction practices that retain and improve existing natural features <br /> and systems on and around building sites. Not all development is equal with respect to its impact on <br /> natural resources. Development practices that identify and preserve significant natural resources-such <br /> as clustering,open space dedications, restrictive covenants, or conservation easements—should be <br /> promoted by the City whenever possible. Furthermore, construction practices in all new developments <br /> should not negatively impact resources by causing erosion,tree damage, or the disruption of significant <br /> ecological features. <br /> Support more environmentally sound alternatives to transportation, power,storm water <br /> management, landscaping,and sewer treatment. One of the City's strengths is its progressive thinking. <br /> The City should take the lead in promoting the use of new, sustainable technologies for its <br /> infrastructure. <br /> Foster environmental stewardship. Pequot Lakes must educate residents and visitors about the value <br /> and importance of preserving natural resources for sustaining the environment, local economy and <br /> quality of life. <br />