Which natural areas should be prioritized for protection from development?

Prioritizing riparian corridors and wetlands for protection from development is crucial due to their significant ecological and hydrological functions. Riparian areas are those adjacent to rivers and streams that play a vital role in maintaining water quality, providing habitat for diverse wildlife, and supporting aquatic ecosystems. These areas help filter pollutants before they enter waterways, manage floodwaters, and maintain the overall health of the watershed.

Wetlands, similar to riparian corridors, are essential for biodiversity, ecosystem services, and climate regulation. They serve as natural sponges that absorb excess water during floods, thereby protecting adjacent land from erosion and damage. Additionally, they act as critical habitats for various species, including many that are threatened or endangered.

While dry lands and deserts, urban areas, and mountain ridges do hold ecological and recreational value, riparian corridors and wetlands are uniquely vulnerable to development pressures and are often lost or degraded with urbanization. Prioritizing these areas helps ensure the preservation of crucial ecosystems that provide substantial benefits to both the environment and human communities.