Section 85022 Of Chapter 2. Delta Policy From California Water Code >> Division 35. >> Part 1. >> Chapter 2.
85022
. (a) It is the intent of the Legislature that state and local
land use actions identified as "covered actions" pursuant to Section
85057.5 be consistent with the Delta Plan. This section's findings,
policies, and goals apply to Delta land use planning and development.
(b) The actions of the council shall be guided by the findings,
policies, and goals expressed in this section when reviewing
decisions of the commission pursuant to Division 19.5 (commencing
with Section 29700) of the Public Resources Code.
(c) The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:
(1) The Delta is a distinct and valuable natural resource of vital
and enduring interest to all the people and exists as a delicately
balanced estuary and wetland ecosystem of hemispheric importance.
(2) The permanent protection of the Delta's natural and scenic
resources is the paramount concern to present and future residents of
the state and nation.
(3) To promote the public safety, health, and welfare, and to
protect public and private property, wildlife, fisheries, and the
natural environment, it is necessary to protect and enhance the
ecosystem of the Delta and prevent its further deterioration and
destruction.
(4) Existing developed uses, and future developments that are
carefully planned and developed consistent with the policies of this
division, are essential to the economic and social well-being of the
people of this state and especially to persons living and working in
the Delta.
(d) The fundamental goals for managing land use in the Delta are
to do all of the following:
(1) Protect, maintain, enhance, and, where feasible, restore the
overall quality of the Delta environment and its natural and
artificial resources.
(2) Ensure the utilization and conservation of Delta resources,
taking into account the social and economic needs of the people of
the state.
(3) Maximize public access to Delta resources and maximize public
recreational opportunities in the Delta consistent with sound
resources conservation principles and constitutionally protected
rights of private property owners.
(4) Encourage state and local initiatives and cooperation in
preparing procedures to implement coordinated planning and
development for mutually beneficial uses, including educational uses,
in the Delta.
(5) Develop new or improved aquatic and terrestrial habitat and
protect existing habitats to advance the goal of restoring and
enhancing the Delta ecosystem.
(6) Improve water quality to protect human health and the
environment consistent with achieving water quality objectives in the
Delta.