§ 10.5-1. Purpose.

Based on the department of natural resources part V environmental planning standards and the findings of the 2010 Joint Ben Hill County-City of Fitzgerald Comprehensive Plan, it has been determined that the wise management of the wetlands as defined in this section is essential to maintaining the health, safety, welfare and economic well-being of the public, and to provide a guide for future growth and development in the wetlands protection districts as defined.

The wetlands in City of Fitzgerald are indispensable and fragile natural resources with significant development constraints due to flooding, erosion, and soils limitations. In their natural state, wetlands serve man and nature. They provide habitat areas for fish, wildlife and vegetation; water quality maintenance and pollution control; flood control; erosion control; natural resource education; scientific study; and open space and recreational opportunities. In addition, the wise management of forested wetlands is essential to the economic well-being of many communities within the State of Georgia.

Nationally, a considerable number of these important natural resources have been lost or impaired by draining, dredging, filling, excavating, building, pollution and other acts. Piecemeal or cumulative losses will, over time, destroy additional wetlands. Damaging or destroying wetlands threatens public safety and the general welfare.

The purpose of this section is to promote wetlands protection, while taking into account varying ecological, economic development, recreational and aesthetic values. Activities that may damage wetlands should be located on upland sites to the greatest degree practicable as determined through a permitting process.

(Ord. No. 03-1319, § 10A-1, 6-30-03)