Chapter 4 Habitats
4.5.14.5.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships Conservation programs, incentives, and partnerships should be used to the fullest extent to preserve high-quality resources and protect important natural communities. Protective measures that use existing regulatory frameworks to protect habitats and species should be incorporated where applicable. Land conservation or preservation can serve numerous purposes in the face of anticipated climate change, but above all, it promotes ecosystem resilience. Priority Conservation Action, Examples of Focal Species or Focal Habitats • Wetland and marsh restoration projects and shoreline stabilization are high priorities for areas prone to erosion from natural exposure or from heavy boat traffic (NCEEP 2009) . • The NCDMS has identified targeted local watersheds as restoration priorities in most river basins using 14-digit HUCs. Information about these priorities in the Pasquotank River Basin is available online https://www.deq.nc.gov/about/divisions/mitigation-services/dms- planning/watershed-planning-documents/pasquotank-river-basin-documents.
• Guide academic research projects to help achieve specific conservation goals and objectives.
• Support the development and application of an aquatic nuisance species management plan with other agencies/groups.
• Address secondary and cumulative impacts upon water quality (buffer ordinances, water supply watershed protection, and headwaters protection).
• Work with and promote existing programs that help farmers reduce sedimentation/erosion (installing fences to keep livestock out of streams, improving tilling practices) as well as reduce pesticide and herbicide use.
• Support stormwater management and wastewater treatment plant improvements and upgrades.
References are located at the end of this document.
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2025 NC Wildlife Action Plan
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