What is the Conservation Element?

The City of Shasta Lake is home to natural resources along with residents and various types of development, including unique waterways, ecosystems, and landforms. The Conservation Element of this General Plan establishes goals for the retention, enhancement, and development of these natural resources in conjunction with the Land Use and Open Space Elements. Together, these elements guide conservation efforts by balancing the City’s development policies with environmental preservation. In particular, this Element “consider[s] the effect of development within the [City], as described in the land use element, on natural resources located on public lands . . .” Cal. Gov’t Code §65302(d)(1). This element addresses the conservation, development, and utilization of the City’s natural resources, including water, forests, soils, wildlife, and energy conservation.

The Conservation Element contains policies to guide the conservation of the resources that are fundamental components of Shasta Lake’s environment, to help define the City’s identity, and that are relied upon for continued economic prosperity. Over the long term, conservation is the most cost-effective strategy to ensure a reliable supply of resources needed now and in the future.

Why is Conservation Important?

Conservation of natural resources is important to the City and is one of the State’s three planning priorities. (Cal Gov’t Code § 65041.1(b)) Conservation is the planned management, preservation, and wise utilization of natural resources and landscapes. The Conservation Element contains policies to guide the conservation of the resources that are fundamental components of Shasta Lake’s environment. Shasta Lake’s resources include, but are not limited to: water, land, air, biodiversity, minerals, natural materials, recyclables, topography, views, and energy.

Sustainable conservation practices help ensure that future generations will be able to use and enjoy these resources to achieve and maintain a healthy and diverse environment and economy. Sustainability is a global issue that extends beyond the realm of City planning. However, local land use planning and resource management affect the economic vitality, natural environment, and societal support that contribute to a sustainable Shasta Lake.

Natural resource conservation has many benefits. The preservation of water resources may provide flood protection, increased water quality, or increased resiliency in times of drought. Trees or forested areas in the urban landscapes are an effective, low technology way to help meet “green” building goals and reduce heat islands, while also achieving other environmental and economic benefits. Responsible development and protection of areas rich in mineral resources can create a better balance between resource extraction and other land uses within a community. Proactive protection of wildlife and fisheries means less onerous protection obligations later if wildlife or fisheries are suffering.

Understanding the natural resources within Shasta Lake and the methods for conserving them helps ensure community needs are balances with environmental conservation and climate change considerations.