HomeMy WebLinkAboutCFE agenda 111218AGENDA
Orange County Commission for the Environment
November 12, 2018
7:30 p.m.
Richard Whitted Building, 300 West Tryon Street, Hillsborough
Time Item Title
7:30 I. Call to Order
7:32 II. Additions or Changes to Agenda
7:35 III. Approval of Draft Minutes – October 8th 2018
The CFE will consider approval of minutes from the last meeting. Action needed (Attachment 1)
7:40 IV. CFE Annual Report and Related Items
Staff will lead a discussion concerning the draft annual report and opportunities for CFE members
to serve as liaisons with two Orange County advisory boards, as well as the annual election of
CFE Officers in December. (Attachments 2, 3 and 4)
7:50 V. BOCC Abstract Environmental Impact Consideration
Staff will lead a discussion concerning the BOCC request for consideration of the possible
environmental impacts of agenda items. (Attachment 5)
8:10 VI. SOE 2019 Update
Staff will lead a discussion concerning the updated SOE timeline, event planning and possible
partners, in-house graphics capabilities, etc. (Attachments 6 and 7)
8:20 VII. Committee Meetings
CFE Committees will meet to discuss their potential issues and indicators for the 2019 State of
the Environment report and begin to locate relevant data for the indicators. (Attachment 8)
8:50 VIII. Updates and Information Items
Staff and/or CFE members will provide updates on the following items:
Continuing Action Items from previous CFE meetings:
o Orange County Legislative Message
o Rural Buffer Research/Community Viz
o Divestment Resolution
o Idle Reduction Petition
Updates:
o I-40 Widening Project Public Comment Period (Attachment 9)
o IGPCC Report Executive Summary (Attachment 10)
o Draft OWASA Approach for Management of Forested Lands
(Attachment 11)
Any other new information from CFE members and staff
9:00 VIII. Adjournment
Next Meeting: December 10th, Southern Human
Services Building, 2501 Homestead Road, Chapel Hill
CFE Meeting Ground Rules (Adopted 9/12/11)
1. Keep to agenda topic under discussion
2. Share relevant information
3. One person speaks at a time after recognition by the Chair
4. Everyone is invited to participate in discussions/no one person should dominate
discussions
5. Strive to reach consensus first before voting
Activities the CFE expects to carry out in 2018:
Continue to plan for and prepare the 2019 State of the Environment report
Continue to prepare articles on environmental issues of importance to Orange
County, including climate change, energy conservation, and other important topics.
Recommend ways to reduce the County’s “carbon footprint” and ways to implement
the County’s Environmental Responsibility Goal (BOCC Priority #10)
Participate in a County effort to identify and preserve important landscape corridors
that connect significant natural areas and open space (BOCC Priority #1)
Co-sponsor the annual DEAPR photography contest (The Nature of Orange).
Participate in the County’s annual Earth Evening event.
Concerns or emerging issues the CFE has identified for 2018:
Water Supply – Strive to educate county residents about their source of water,
especially those residents utilizing groundwater for their supply.
Request the BOCC sign on to the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and
Energy, which includes committing to completing a greenhouse gas inventory within
a year. Upon signing, the committee will assist staff, as appropriate, with the
associated Greenhouse Gas inventory update and climate action planning.
The CFE will continue to learn about environmental justice matters and incorporate
relevant information and considerations in the next State of the Environment report
(2019) and its other activities.
Develop plan for researching potential environmental impacts of the rural buffer.
Develop methodology for monitoring changes in forest cover/land cover in Orange
County and also tie into the “No Net Loss of Tree Canopy” petition.
Attachment 1
Orange County Commission for the Environment
Draft Meeting Summary
October 8, 2018
Southern Human Services Center, 2501 Homestead Road, Chapel Hill
Present: Bradley Saul (Chair), Bill Newby, Bill Kaiser (Vice Chair), Alan Parry, Kim
Piracci, Bill Ward, Jim Eichel, Jeremy Marzuola, Jody Eimers, Lynne
Gronback, Matt Crook, Will Stanley, Laura Doherty
Absent: Carrie Fletcher, Emily Mixon
Staff: Brennan Bouma, Tom Davis
I. Call to Order – Saul called the meeting to order at 7:30.
II. Additions or Changes to Agenda – Bouma notified the CFE of a BOCC
request that the CFE will be discussing during the November meeting. It was
decided to discuss this briefly before the break for Committee Meetings.
III. Approval of Draft Minutes from September 10th, 2018 – The minutes were
approved unanimously following a motion to do so as offered by Marzoula and
seconded by Eichel.
IV. Review of Advisory Board Member Roles and Responsibilities
Saul lead a discussion of CFE meeting Ground Rules and member
responsibilities in response to questions during the September meeting related to
attendance and lobbying activities.
Ward continued to express interest in exploring the potential for his approval to
lobby in person representing the CFE or the County on the state level. It was
agreed that this approval was unlikely based on the staff’s reading of the CFE
Member Roles and Responsibilities. The discussion then turned to exploring a
way for the CFE to influence the annual legislative message. Staff will ask the
Clerk’s office in what ways the County communicates its priorities and/or
attempts to exert influence on the state level. Staff offered to bring this
information back to the CFE for discussion during the next meeting.
V. Rural Buffer Research Proposal
Saul led a discussion concerning the proposed study of the environmental impact
of the Rural Buffer. The group discussed various ideas related to graduate or
undergraduate UNC students researching the environmental impacts of the rural
buffer.
Attachment 1
Kaiser had a question about what the ETJ is and what the difference was
between that and the rural buffer. Staff will research the different areas that make
up the map outside of municipal jurisdictions: ETJ, transition areas, and will email
the entire CFE with the description. Davis pointed out that most of the requested
description can be found in Chapter 5 of the 2030 Comprehensive Plan.
Saul reminded everyone that the central question focuses on the environmental
impacts of the low-density area, for instance in water quality and environmental
justice. Eimers said that she’d also recommend “environmental services” to be
added to the list of considerations, exploring the functional and aesthetic value of
the area. Students might be able to model the impact of urbanizing this area.
Marzuola asked if there were common comparison counties that could serve as a
starting point for comparison. Bouma mentioned that the Community Viz model
used by regional transportation planners may be a useful tool for this analysis.
A motion was made by Marzuola for staff to contact the UNC Department of City
and Regional Planning and to mention the possible connection to the Community
Viz model. This was seconded by Kaiser, and passed unanimously.
VI. Committee Meetings
Prior to the start of committee meetings, Bouma described the BOCC discussion
on including a section showing the environmental impact of every action they
take in their April meeting. This would be included as part of each BOCC agenda
abstract along with the current sections discussing financial impact and social
justice impact. This was referred to staff recently by the County Manager and
some initial ideas have been generated.
Ward suggested a comprehensive questionnaire similar to a medical office. This
would expose staff to a list of specific and relevant potential impacts of their
proposals. Marzuola asked that example agenda abstracts be brought to
represent the spectrum of topics these documents cover and to test how the
proposed environmental impacts framework might be applied to each. Staff will
forward the message containing the three initial ideas and will bring example
agenda abstracts to the November CFE meeting.
CFE Committees met to discuss the 2019 State of the Environment report.
Committees discussed their indicator issue selections and assigned them to
specific committee members who will focus on researching and developing
indicators related to these issues.
Attachment 1
VII. Updates and Information Items
Brief updates were provided on the following items:
Divestment Resolution Update – will be on the November CFE agenda
Idle Reduction Petition Update – Staff is moving forward with ordering
“No Idling” signs
VIII. Adjournment – Saul adjourned the meeting at 9:09 following the unanimous
approval of a motion to adjourn the meeting which was offered by Ward and
seconded by Parry.
NAME OF BOARD/COMMISSION __Commission for the Environment____
Report Period_______2018-2019_________________________
ORANGE COUNTY ADVISORY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
ANNUAL REPORT/ WORK PLAN FOR THE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
The Board of Commissioners appreciates the dedication of all the volunteers on their
boards and commissions and welcomes input from various advisory boards and
commissions throughout the year. Please complete the following information, limited to
the front and back of this form. Other background materials may be provided as a
supplement to, but not as a substitute for, this form.
Board/Commission Name: Commission for the Environment
Person to address the BOCC at work session- if applicable- and contact information:
Chair: Bradley Saul 707-360-8511 bradleysaul@gmail.com
Vice Chair: Bill Kaiser 919-933-9794 w_mckaiser@hotmail.com
Primary County Staff Contact:
DEAPR Staff:
Tom Davis, Water Resources Coordinator, 919-245-2513, tdavis@orangecountync.gov
Kim Livingston, Land Resources Manager, 919-245-2514, klivingston@orangecountync.gov
Asset Management Staff:
Brennan Bouma, Sustainability Coordinator, 919-245-2626, bbouma@orangecountync.gov
How many times per month does this board/commission meet, including any special
meetings and sub-committee meetings?
The board meets once per month (2nd Monday). No meeting is held during the month of
July. Committees meet as needed during regular meetings.
Brief Statement of Board/Commission’s Assigned Charge and Respons ibilities.
Purpose: to advise the BOCC on matters affecting the environment, with particular
emphasis on environmental protection and enhancement. Other duties include:
Perform special studies/projects on environmental issues as requested by BOCC
Recommend environmental initiatives to the BOCC, especially of local importance
Study changes in environmental science and environmental regulations in the
pursuit of the CFE’s duties
Educate the public and local officials on environmental issues
What are your Board/Commission’s most important accomplishments?
Planning the upcoming 2019 State of the Environment report and related event
Prepared resolutions for BOCC consideration concerning: Anti-Idling Campaign,
Support for Carbon Fee and Dividend legislation, Request for NC to Divest from
Fossil Fuel Corporations, Roadside Wildflower Conservation (2018)
Requested the BOCC consider joining the Global Covenant of Mayors and Chairs
organization concerned with global climate change (2018)
Wrote a series of climate change articles (2017)
Developed and posted a Facebook page (2017)
Edited and recommended a renewable energy resolution to the BOCC (2017)
Recruited UNC capstone students to assist with the 2019 State of the Environment
report (2017)
Provided input on updates to the Lands Legacy Action Plan (2017)
Made recommendations to BOCC on UDO amendment to flexible subdivisions
(2016)
Initiated a series of newspaper articles on environmental issues featured
previously in the Orange County State of the Environment report (2015-16)
Made recommendations to BOCC on 2016 bond package, the use of pesticides at
County facilities, and incentives for energy efficient construction (2015)
Commented to Planning Bd. on proposed changes to impervious surface rules
(2015)
Provided ideas for Public Services Announcements for County radio spots (2015)
Collaborated with others on energy conservation and mgmt. projects (2015-16)
Published the 2014 Orange County State of the Environment report
(reports were previously completed in 2000, 2002, 2004, and 2009)
Convened Orange County Environmental Summit (2005, 2009, 2014)
Made recommendations to BOCC on food waste and solid waste tax district (2014)
Worked with Orange County Schools to introduce local environmental indicators
into middle and high school science curricula (2004, 2009, 2014)
Hosted a Solid Waste Forum with the Chapel Hill Sustainability Committee (2013)
Co-sponsored The Nature of Orange photography contest (2012 - 2018)
Advocated for ½ cent sales tax referendum for Triangle Region public transit
(2012)
Compiled annotated bibliography of the effects of forestry on water quality (2012)
Developed sustainable landscaping and forest management policies for the
administration of County-owned facilities (2010)
List of Specific Tasks, Events, or Functions Performed or Sponsored Annually.
DEAPR Photography Contest
Liaisons to Intergovernmental Parks Work Group and Orange Unified Transp.
Board
Review and comment on environmental issues (e.g., anti-idling efforts, fracking,
biosolids application, water pollution, air quality, forest mgmt.) and other issues
assigned by the BOCC
Identify priorities for the Lands Legacy Action Plan (natural areas and wildlife
habitat)
Conduct special studies pertaining to Orange County environment (e.g., energy
efficiency/sustainability, forestry effects on water quality, herbicides and native
flora)
Conduct environmental education outreach events (e.g., Earth Evening)
Describe this board/commission’s activities/accomplishments in carrying out BOCC
goal(s)/priorities, if applicable.
BOCC Goal Five: Create, preserve, and protect a natural environment that
includes clean water, clean air, wildlife, important natural lands and sustainable
energy for present and future generations.
Presented findings and recommendations to BOCC on selected environmental
issues: 1) roadside wildflower preservation; 2) effects of forest mgmt. on water
quality; 3) effects of herbicides on roadside native plant habitat; 4) potential effects
of hydraulic fracturing (“fracking”) in Orange County; 5) need for 100% renewable
energy in Orange County (BOCC Priorities #1 and #12)
Stayed abreast of ongoing and developing env. issues of importance to the
County, such as Falls & Jordan Lake nutrient mgmt. rules, reducing commercial
food waste in solid waste stream, and permitting of biosolids on farmland
(Priorities #12 and #16)
Describe the collaboration relationship(s) this particular board has with other advisory
boards and commissions?
As needed relationship.
If your board/commission played the role of an Element Lead Advisory Board involved in
the 2030 Comprehensive Plan preparation process, please indicate your board’s
activities/accomplishments as they may relate to the Comprehensive Plan’s goals or
objectives. (The Element Lead Advisory Boards include: Planning Board, EDC,
OUTBoard, Commission for the Environment, Historic Preservation Commission,
Agriculture Preservation Board, Affordable Housing Board, Recreation and Parks
Advisory Council)
The CFE provided extensive input into DEAPR staff development of the Natural and
Cultural Systems Element of the Comprehensive Plan—specifically the chapters on
Air and Energy Resources, Water Resources, and Natural Areas and Wildlife Habitat.
Objective AE-1:
Assess and implement the current countywide greenhouse gas emissions inventory
and action plan target reductions.
The CFE helped to initiate a countywide inventory of greenhouse gas emissions
(2005), and continues to advise on ways to reduce the County’s “carbon footprint.”
Objective AE-15:
Foster participation in green energy programs such as installation incentives for solar
hot water/solar generation/solar tempering in residential or commercial construction.
The County should develop programs that will link citizens and businesses with
options for alternative and sustainable energy sources.
The CFE’s Energy Resources Committee has developed proposals that address
energy efficiency and renewable power issues, and will pursue further in
collaboration with other advisory boards and stakeholders.
Objective NA-3:
Develop a more detailed and consistent methodology for monitoring changes in forest
cover throughout the County, and specifically the extent of mature hardwood forest.
The CFE’s State of the Environment report documented significant reductions in
mature hardwood forest that occurred from 2003 -2008 and since 1988.
The CFE Land Resources Committee is currently……..?
Objective NA-11:
Develop a comprehensive conservation plan for achieving a network of protected
open space throughout Orange County, which addresses 1) threats to important
natural areas; 2) connectivity between protected areas; 3) coordination with
neighboring counties; and 4) sustainable management of critical natural resources.
The CFE’s Land Resources Committee is participating in a County effort to identify
and preserve important landscape corridors that connect significant natural areas.
Objective NA-16:
Create a system of public and private open space and conservation areas, including
parks, nature preserves, and scenic vistas representative of Orange County
landscape.
The CFE advises County’s Lands Legacy program in its efforts to protect the most
important natural and cultural resource lands through a variety of means.
The CFE’s Land Resources Committee is participating in a County effort to identify
and preserve important landscape corridors that connect significant natural areas.
Objective WR-5:
Promote and participate in regional efforts to plan for use of water supplies in the
region in an equitable manner, including contingency planning for water supplies
during droughts. [Also Objectives WR-9, WR-10, and WR-15]
CFE advocates for full implementation of the Water Resources Initiative to ensure
planning for an adequate water supply for current and anticipated future needs
Objective WR-11:
Provide incentives and educational information to landowners to increase protection of
watersheds and ground water supplies and their inter-relationships.
The CFE distributes groundwater and surface water educational materials at Earth
Evening and as part of its State of the Environment reports
NOTE: The Orange County State of the Environment 2014 identified specific
recommendations on ways to help maintain and improve Orange County’s
environmental quality, many of which address objectives stated in the Orange
County Comprehensive Plan.
Identify any activities this board/commission expects to carry out in 2019 as they relate to
established BOCC goals and priorities. If applicable, is there a fiscal impact (i.e., funding,
staff time, other resources) associated with these proposed activities (please list).
Continue to plan for and prepare the 2019 State of the Environment report
Continue to prepare articles on environmental issues of importance to Orange
County, including climate change, energy conservation, and other important topics.
Recommend ways to reduce the County’s “carbon footprint” and ways to
implement the County’s Environmental Responsibility Goal (BOCC Priority #10)
Participate in a County effort to identify and preserve important landscape corridors
that connect significant natural areas and open space (BOCC Priority #1)
Co-sponsor the annual DEAPR photography contest (The Nature of Orange).
Participate in the County’s annual Earth Evening event.
What are the concerns or emerging issues your board has identified for the upcoming
year that it plans to address, or wishes to bring to the Commissioners’ attention?
Water Supply – Strive to educate county residents about their source of water,
especially those residents utilizing groundwater for their supply.
Request the BOCC sign on to the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and
Energy, which includes committing to completing a greenhouse gas inventory
within a year. Upon signing, the committee will assist staff, as appropriate, with the
associated Greenhouse Gas inventory update and climate action planning.
The CFE will continue learning about environmental justice and incorporate
relevant information in the 2019 State of the Environment report.
Develop plan for researching potential environmental impacts of the rural buffer.
Develop methodology for monitoring changes in forest cover/land cover in Orange
County and also tie into the “No Net Loss of Tree Canopy” petition.
A Resolution To Re-Establish the
Intergovernmental Parks (IP) Work Group
WHEREAS, the Joint Master Recreation and Parks Work Group report of 1999, adopted
by the elected boards of Orange County, Chapel Hill, Hillsborough and Carrboro, called
for the creation of an inter-jurisdictional parks committee, and
WHEREAS, the elected boards duly created the Intergovernmental Parks Work Group in
2000 for a three year initial duration, to promote communication between jurisdictions
and allow for the sharing of ideas and opportunities for joint projects and initiatives, and
WHEREAS, during the three years of the Work Group (which included representatives
from a broad cross-section of elected and advisory boards, school boards, and other
interested parties), a number of successes were achieved by the communication and
collaborations fostered through this mechanism, as outlined in the Intergovernmental
Parks Work Group report of April 2004; and
WHEREAS, Work Group members surveyed in the report noted the importance of the
IPWG forum for communicating on parks projects, development of brochures and others
needs, and
WHEREAS, re-establishment of the Work Group is expected to continue to promote
opportunities for coordination between all stakeholders and interested parties within the
County.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Orange County Board of
Commissioners proposes that the Intergovernmental Parks Work Group be re-established
to continue to foster communication and collaboration in parks efforts, with the same
charge and membership as in the resolution of establishment adopted May 3, 2000, with
one addition to allow for a fourth quarterly meeting each year.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Board commends this resolution to the elected
boards of Carrboro, Chapel Hill and Hillsborough, and asks that they adopt like
resolutions to re-establish the Work Group in time for a meeting in fall 2004.
This the 13th day of April, 2004
Barry Jacobs, Chair
Orange County Board of Commissioners
ATTEST:
Donna M. Baker, Clerk to the Board
2000 mission and charge
(*Rev. 2010 to reflected new Orange County Department Name)
(**Rev. 2017 to Add Orange County Dept. on Aging and meeting times)
Intergovernmental Parks Work Group (IP Work Group)
Membership, Mission and Charge
…as per resolution adopted by Orange County, Chapel Hill, Carrboro and Hillsborough boards
Membership
The Work Group shall have 18 members, as follows:
• Orange County Board of Commissioners (one member, or designee of Board)
• Carrboro Board of Aldermen (one member, or designee of Board)
• Chapel Hill Town Council (one member, or designee of Board)
• Hillsborough Board of Commissioners (one member, or designee of Board)
• Mebane City Council (one member, or designee of Board)
• Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools Board of Education (one member, or designee of board)
• Orange County Schools Board of Education (one member, or designee of Board)
• OWASA Board of Directors (one member)
• Carrboro Parks and Recreation Board (one member and one alternate)
• Chapel Hill Parks and Recreation Commission (one member)
• **Chapel Hill Greenways Comm. (2017) Orange County Dept. on Aging (one member)
• Hillsborough Parks and Recreation Board (one member and one alternate)
• Orange County Recreation and Parks Advisory Council (one member and one alternate)
• Orange County Commission for the Environment (one member)
• University of North Carolina (one member)
• Duke Forest Resource Manager (one member)
• Triangle Land Conservancy (one member)
• Eno River Association (one member)
* - Advisory board and elected representatives from each jurisdiction would be appointed by the
elected board of that jurisdiction.
Meetings
The Work Group will meet three** times per year (fall, winter and spring)
**Rev 2017 two times a year (fall and spring)
Tenure
The Work Group will work for three years (July 2000-June 2003), providing yearly
reports and a final report in June 2003. If desired after three years, the participating
parties may make it a permanent, standing group.
Charge
To build on the momentum of the Joint Master Recreation and Parks Work Group
process by accomplishing the following:
1. To gather, exchange and share information on parks planning and development in
the municipalities and County.
2. To maintain and update the Inventory of Parks and Recreation Facilities
developed as part of the Joint Master Recreation and Parks report, including new
properties acquired or dedicated
3. To foster communication between the municipalities and County on future
opportunities and collaborative ventures
4. To provide a coordinating mechanism for updates to parks and recreation plans
in each jurisdiction
5. To review and inform the municipalities and County concerning parks needs and
potential opportunities
6. To develop parameters for parks standards (leaving flexibility for the actual
standards to vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction within these parameters)
7. To develop and coordinate public education and public outreach on parks issues
(coordinated brochures, etc)
Nature of Work Group and Staffing Arrangements
The Intergovernmental Parks Work Group is inter-jurisdictional, providing information to all
elected boards on the areas listed above. It is not a formal advisory board of any jurisdiction.
Staffing for the Task Force would be of a joint nature, including:
• the Parks and Recreation Directors from Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Mebane and Orange County
• the Environment and Resource Conservation Director from Orange County. (*4/1/2010 the
department became known as The Department of Environment, Agriculture, Parks and
Recreation.)
The Director of the Department of Environment, Agriculture, Parks and Recreation* will be
responsible for administration, agenda preparation and meeting coordination – working with the
Parks and Recreation Directors.
Orange UniÚed Transportation Board
(OUTBoard)
Meetings
6:30 p.m.
3rd Wednesday of every month
West Campus Office Building
Lower Level Conference Room (004)
131 W Margaret Lane
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Agendas & Minutes
Agendas are available prior to the meetings. Minutes are available following
approval.
View Most Recent Agendas and Minutes
Members
Heidi Perry, Chair
Term expires: September 30, 2020
Special Representative: At-Large
Alexander Castro, Vice-Chair
Term expires: September 30, 2018
Gary Saunders
Term expires: September 30, 2018
Special Representative: At-Large
Erle Smith
Term expires: September 30, 2018
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Special Representative: Bingham
Township
Abigaile Pittman, Contact Person
Phone: 919-245-2567
Email
Jeff Charles
Term expires: September 30, 2018
Special Representative: At-Large
David I. Laudicina
Term expires: September 30, 2018
Special Representative: At-Large
Art Menius
Term expires: September 30, 2020
Special Representative: At-Large
Justin Miller
Term expires: September 30, 2019
Special Representative: At-Large
Donna Musson
Term expires: September 30, 2019
Special Representative: Eno
Township
Special Representative: Chapel
Hill Township
Jenn Sykes
Term expires: September 30, 2020
Special Representative: At-Large
Theodore W. Triebel
Term expires: September 30, 2018
Special Representative: Little River
Township
Ed Vaughn
Term expires: September 30, 2020
Special Representative: Cedar
Grove Township
Brantley Wells
Term expires: September 30, 2020
Special Representative:
Hillsborough Township
Alyson West
Term expires: September 30, 2019
Special Representative: At-Large
Board Overview
The Orange Unified Transportation Board (OUTBoard) advises the Orange County
Board of County Commissioners and provides information and comments on major
transportation issues. Specifically, the OUTBoard provides the Board of County
Commissioners with recommendations regarding the overall planning and
programming of transportation improvements in the County, including:
Identification and prioritization of the County's roadway and transit needs along
with associated costs and specific sources of funding
Provision of recommendations to the Board regarding Federal and State
legislation affecting transportation in Orange County Enable Google Translate
Exploration and suggestion of recommendations on innovative techniques and
methods to improve the efficiency and capacity of existing and future
transportation systems
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ORANGE COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date: November 8, 2018
Action Agenda
Item No. 4
SUBJECT: Discussion on Alternatives for Potential Environmental Impacts Section on
BOCC Meeting Agenda Abstracts
DEPARTMENT: Asset Management Services,
Department of Environment,
Agriculture, Parks and
Recreation
ATTACHMENT(S):
A) Possible Abstract Template for
Discussion – Minimal Edits
B) Possible Abstract Template for
Discussion – Tabular Format
C) 2005 Environmental Responsibility
Goal and Objectives
D) 2010 Social Justice Goals
INFORMATION CONTACT:
Brennan Bouma, (919) 245-2626
Jeff Thompson, (919) 245-2658
David Stancil, (919) 245-2522
PURPOSE: To present information and request feedback from the Board of Orange County
Commissioners regarding:
1) Potential environmental impact sections to be included in Board of County
Commissioners’ meeting agenda abstract templates; and
2) Soliciting any further direction for the Commission for the Environment (CFE) to guide the
consideration of this proposed addition to agenda item abstracts.
BACKGROUND: In response to an April 26, 2018 petition from the Board of Commissioners to
potentially begin outlining environmental impacts within agenda item abstracts, staff has
prepared two draft agenda abstract templates for Board discussion and feedback. Both
templates are integrated approaches that recognize and illustrate the three sustainability
components of:
• Environment (related to the 2005 Environmental Responsibility Goal - Attachment C);
• Equity (related to the 2010 Social Justice Goal - Attachment D); and
• Economy (Financial Impact).
The templates are as follows:
Attachment A – Minimal Edits – Current abstract format with integrated approach
including the impacts related to the 2005 Environmental Responsibility Goal.
Attachment B – Tabular Format – Walks abstract writers and readers through the
elements of the County’s goals and their relation to the proposed action being requested
of the Board.
1
The first of the attached draft templates makes the fewest changes to the current abstract
template in grouping the Financial, Social Justice, and Environmental Impacts together and
providing an open text field in which staff can select from the goals documents.
The second template uses a tabular format to guide the selection of the relevant goals and
objectives that should be considered, and provides staff with an area to address the goals to
which the abstract applies.
The current Social Justice Impacts section of the abstract template allows staff to select the
relevant Social Justice Goals adopted by the BOCC in 2010 (note Attachment B). Similarly, the
County also adopted an Environmental Responsibility Goal with 10 related objectives in 2005
(note Attachment C). The CFE also periodically adopts a State of the Environment report with
metrics to assess environmental impacts. For the Board’s reference, the 2014 State of the
Environment Report can be found at this link: www.orangecountync.gov/Archive.aspx?AMID=63
One or both of these documents can be used as the base reference documents for the
proposed environmental impacts section.
During the work session, staff will present these concepts and will facilitate the Board’s
discussion to generate guidance for staff and the Commission for the Environment.
It is proposed that the CFE, which considered this subject several years ago, review and advise
on how this could be holistically addressed in the framework on an agenda abstract. The CFE
will begin discussing this topic at its November meeting.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: These two options will both add staff time to the development of agenda
abstracts and the underlying decision factors related to the abstract. To the extent that a
consideration of environmental impact could lead to efficiencies in the use of County facilities
and vehicles, the lifecycle benefits of those efficiencies may lead to avoided costs.
SOCIAL JUSTICE IMPACT: The following Orange County Social Justice Goal is applicable to
this item:
• GOAL: ESTABLISH SUSTAINABLE AND EQUITABLE LAND-USE AND
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES
The fair treatment and meaningful involvement of people of all races, cultures, incomes
and educational levels with respect to the development and enforcement of
environmental laws, regulations, policies, and decisions. Fair treatment means that no
group of people should bear a disproportionate share of the negative environmental
consequences resulting from industrial, governmental and commercial operations or
policies.
Including a section in every BOCC abstract that communicates expected environmental impacts
will further institutionalize the consideration of the health of the environment in all County
actions.
RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board discuss these draft
templates, provide feedback on initial draft templates and provide direction for the Commission
for the Environment to guide its consideration of this proposed addition to BOCC agenda
abstracts.
2
Attachment A
ORANGE COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date:
Action Agenda
Item No.
SUBJECT:
DEPARTMENT:
ATTACHMENT(S):
INFORMATION CONTACT:
PURPOSE:
BACKGROUND:
EXPECTED IMPACTS RELATED TO COUNTY GOALS:
• FINANCIAL:
• SOCIAL JUSTICE:
• ENVIRONMENTAL:
RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board
3
Attachment B
ORANGE COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date:
Action Agenda
Item No.
SUBJECT:
DEPARTMENT:
ATTACHMENT(S):
INFORMATION CONTACT:
PURPOSE:
BACKGROUND:
EXPECTED IMPACTS RELATED TO COUNTY GOALS:
IMPACT AREA DESCRIPTION
FINANCIAL:
FIRST COST
OPERATIONAL COST
AVOIDED COSTS OR REVENUE
SOCIAL JUSTICE:
ENSURE ECONOMIC SELF-
SUFFICIENCY
CREATE A SAFE COMMUNITY
ESTABLISH SUSTAINABLE AND
EQUITABLE LAND-USE AND
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES
ENABLE FULL CIVIC
PARTICIPATION
ENVIRONMENTAL:
EFFICIENCY AND WASTE
REDUCTION
CLEAN OR AVOIDED
TRANSPORTATION
ENVIRONMENTALLY
PREFERABLE PURCHASING
RESULTANT IMPACT ON
NATURAL RESOURCES
ADDITIONAL DESCRIPTION (if necessary)
RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board
4
Environmental Responsibility in County Government
Adopted as an Orange County Goal, 12/5/05
Goal Statement:
Perform all County governmental functions, both internal and external, with a sensitivity and
ethic that promotes environmental responsibility and leadership, and an understanding of the
actions of government activities as they affect the natural and cultural resources of the County,
region, state, nation and world.
Objectives (suggested departmental responsibility)
1. Develop a Countywide Environmental Leadership Policy, and institute a
standing Orange County Environmental Action Committee as an internal
mechanism to periodically monitor and assess the County’s progress
toward meeting the objectives of the environmental responsibility goal.
(ERCD, with representatives from all departments);
2. Initiate policies and programs that conserve energy, reduce
fuel/utility/resource consumption, increase the use of recycled products and
renewable energy services, and minimize waste stream impacts on the
environment. (Public Works, all departments);
3. Continue to aggressively pursue waste reduction/recycling efforts, including
the reduction of paper. (Solid Waste, IT);
4. Continue, expand and formally adopt the use of green building standards;
construct new facilities/deconstruct outdated facilities in a way that is eco
friendly, utilizes energy conserving measures, and minimizes impacts on the
environment. (Purchasing, Public Works, Planning, Recreation and Parks, Solid Waste,
ERCD, among others);
5. Implement programs that monitor and improve local and regional air quality
by promoting public transportation options and incentives within the County
that increase connectivity and decrease dependence on personal vehicles,
and by selecting alternative fuel and low emission fuels/vehicles for the
County’s vehicle fleet. (Purchasing, Public Works, ERCD, Planning, Personnel, among
others);
6. Conduct sustainable and ecosensitive forestry practices on Countyowned
lands with a goal of no net loss of woodlands. Promote and encourage eco
sensitive forestry practices on privately held lands within the County. (ERCD,
5Attachment C
Soil & Water, R&P);
7. Promote the use of environmentallysensitive chemical and materials,
including a) the use of “Green Seal” chemicals and cleaning products in
daily operation and maintenance of County facilities; b) utilize an IPM
(Integrated Pest Management) Program for County facilities that minimizes
use of chemical compounds; and c) require that County events and services
(including those involving outside vendors) use ecofriendly and
biodegradable materials wherever possible. (Purchasing, Public Works, R&P);
8. Consider innovative new technologies for conserving and protecting ground
water, indoor air quality and wastewater, to lessen impacts on the natural
environment, and promote water conservation, collection and reuse in both
current and future County facilities. (Health, ERCD, Engineer);
9. Implement growth management policies and procedures within the County so
that development is directed toward areas where it can be accommodated
without compromising the County’s goals for protecting natural and cultural
resources. (Planning, ERCD); and
10. Develop an Information Services policy that promotes energy conservation
through the use of electronic and alternative media of communication. (IT).
Possible Action Strategies
Each department, advisory board and/or organization should be asked to develop specific
action strategies based on the 10 objectives listed above. The possible action strategies should
be collated and compared for consistency and coordination, and then incorporated into the
goal.
Example of an Action Strategy
Objective 5 (Implement programs to monitor and improve local and regional air quality: by
promoting public transportation options and incentives within the County that increase
connectivity and decrease dependence on personal vehicles, and selecting alternative fuel and
low emission fuels/vehicles for the County’s vehicle fleet)
Action Strategy A:
Acquire 35 alternativefuel vehicles (AFV’s) per year, based on evaluation of proposed vehicle
purchases and the “fit” with available AFV options, as funds permit.
6
Adopted by the Orange County Board of Commissioners, December 5, 2005
7
On September 2, 2010, the BOCC unanimously ADOPTED the social
justice goals outlined in the proposed Orange County Social Justice Goal.
The adopted goals are as follows:
SOCIAL JUSTICE GOALS
GOAL: FOSTER A COMMUNITY CULTURE THAT REJECTS OPPRESSION AND
INEQUITY
The fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race or color;
religious or philosophical beliefs; sex, gender or sexual orientation; national origin or
ethnic background; age; military service; disability; and familial, residential or economic
status.
GOAL: ENSURE ECONOMIC SELF-SUFFICIENCY
The creation and preservation of infrastructure, policies, programs and funding necessary
for residents to provide shelter, food, clothing and medical care for themselves and their
dependents.
GOAL: CREATE A SAFE COMMUNITY
The reduction of risks from vehicle/traffic accidents, childhood and senior injuries, gang
activity, substance abuse and domestic violence.
GOAL: ESTABLISH SUSTAINABLE AND EQUITABLE LAND-USE AND
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES
The fair treatment and meaningful involvement of people of all races, cultures, incomes
and educational levels with respect to the development and enforcement of environmental
laws, regulations, policies, and decisions. Fair treatment means that no group of people
should bear a disproportionate share of the negative environmental consequences
resulting from industrial, governmental and commercial operations or policies.
GOAL: ENABLE FULL CIVIC PARTICIPATION
Ensure that Orange County residents are able to engage government through voting and
volunteering by eliminating disparities in participation and barriers to participation.
8
Attachment D
Oc
t
No
v
De
c
Ja
n
Fe
b
Ma
r
Ap
r
i
l
Ma
y
Ju
n
e
Ju
l
y
Au
g
Se
p
Oc
t
Consider, Select, and Plan Event Event
2018 2019
Produce Report
Update Indicator Data and Graphs
Finalize Format
Finalize Indicators
No
M
e
e
t
i
n
g
Consider Format
Alternatives
Updated SOE 2019 Timeline:
Example Graphics Attachment 7
SOE 2019 Issues and Indicators Table
October 2018
Purpose: To formalize the format and content of the SOE document.
Land Resources Committee
Issue Indicator(s) Facilitator(s)
Protected Land Area
Wildlife Corridor Connectivity; Projected
Growth at each level of protection; % of
streams with buffer; access to protected
lands
Jeremy (Kim L.)
Forest Extent
County inventory; No net loss
procedures; Image analysis of canopy;
Solar farm vs. rooftop impact
Bradley, Jeremy
Agricultural
Impact/Benefits
% of farms with registered sustainability
practices; # of local partners; Farmer's
Market Data/Calorie production;
Feed ourselves land use map
Lynne
Waste Reduction
Land use for waste storage; Coverage of
county by annual waste production;
composting participants/projections;
Recycling usage.
Committee of the
Whole, with County
Staff
Biodiversity/Ecosystem
Services
Development/Rural Buffer Projections;
Ordinances; Climate Change Indicators;
Phenology/Birds
Bradley
Water Resources Committee
Issue Indicator(s) Facilitator(s)
Water Quality Chloride, Nitrate, Phosphate Bill K.
Hydrologic Effects of
Climate Change Streamflow at Select Locations Jody
Drinking Water Statistics on populations, sources,
surface vs groundwater Will
Air and Energy Resources Committee
Issue Indicator(s) Facilitator(s)
Climate Change
(mitigation) Bill W., Kim P.
Air Toxins Bill N., Jim
Renewable Energy Matt, Alan, Laura
Climate Change
(adaptation)
NCDOT TO HOLD PUBLIC MEETING FOR THE PROPOSED
WIDENING OF I-40 FROM I-85 TO THE DURHAM COUNTY LINE
IN ORANGE COUNTY
TIP PROJECT NO. I-3306A
The N.C. Department of Transportation will hold a public meeting regarding the proposed
widening of I-40 from I-85 to the Durham County Line in Orange County. The primary purpose
of this project is to improve traffic flow and relieve peak hour congestion.
The meeting will be held on Monday, November 5, 2018 at the Southern Human Services
Center located at 2501 Homestead Road in Chapel Hill from 4-7 p.m. The public may attend
at any time during the meeting hours. Please note there will be no formal presentation.
At the meeting there will be maps of the proposed plans as well as project team members who
will be available to answer your questions and receive feedback. All comments will be taken into
consideration as the project progresses. The opportunity to submit written comments will be
provided at the meeting or can be done via phone, email, or mail no later than November 19,
2018.
As information becomes available, it may be viewed at the NCDOT Public Meeting Webpage:
https://www.ncdot.gov/news/public-meetings/.
For additional information please contact NCDOT Project Management Unit, Gene Tarascio, by
phone at (919) 707-6046 or by email at gtarascio@ncdot.gov or Consultant Project Manager Eric
Midkiff, by phone at (919) 858-1820 or by email at emidkiff@calyxengineers.com.
NCDOT will provide auxiliary aids and services under the Americans with Disabilities Act for
disabled persons who wish to participate in this meeting. Anyone requiring special services
should contact Lauren Putnam via email at lnputnam1@ncdot.gov or by phone at (919) 707-
6072 as early as possible, so that arrangements can be made.
Persons who do not speak English, or have a limited ability to read, speak or understand English,
may receive interpretive services upon request prior to the meeting by calling 1-800-481-6494.
Las personas que no hablan inglés, o tienen limitaciones para leer, hablar o entender inglés,
podrían recibir servicios de interpretación si los solicitan antes de la reunión llamando al 1-800-
481-6494.
IPCC Secretariat
c/o WMO · 7 bis, Avenue de la Paix · C.P: 2300 · CH-1211 Geneva 2 · Switzerland
telephone +41 22 730 8208 / 54 / 84 · fax +41 22 730 8025 / 13 · email IPCC -Sec@wmo.int · www.ipcc.ch
2018/24/PR
IPCC PRESS RELEASE
8 October 2018
Summary for Policymakers of IPCC Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5ºC approved by
governments
INCHEON, Republic of Korea, 8 Oct - Limiting global warming to 1.5ºC would require rapid, far-
reaching and unprecedented changes in all aspects of society, the IPCC said in a new assessment.
With clear benefits to people and natural ecosystems, limiting global warming to 1.5ºC compared to
2ºC could go hand in hand with ensuring a more sustainable and equitable society, the
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) said on Monday.
The Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5ºC was approved by the IPCC on Saturday in Incheon,
Republic of Korea. It will be a key scientific input into the Katowice Climate Change Conference in
Poland in December, when governments review the Paris Agreement to tackle climate change.
“With more than 6,000 scientific references cited and the dedicated contribution of thousands of
expert and government reviewers worldwide, this important report testifies to the breadth and policy
relevance of the IPCC,” said Hoesung Lee, Chair of the IPCC.
Ninety-one authors and review editors from 40 countries prepared the IPCC report in response to
an invitation from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) when it
adopted the Paris Agreement in 2015.
The report’s full name is Global Warming of 1.5°C, an IPCC special report on the impacts of global
warming of 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels and related global greenhouse gas emission pathways,
in the context of strengthening the global response to the threat of climate change, sustainable
development, and efforts to eradicate poverty.
“One of the key messages that comes out very strongly from this report is that we are already
seeing the consequences of 1°C of global warming through more extreme weather, rising sea levels
and diminishing Arctic sea ice, among other changes,” said Panmao Zhai, Co-Chair of IPCC
Working Group I.
The report highlights a number of climate change impacts that could be avoided by limiting global
warming to 1.5ºC compared to 2ºC, or more. For instance, by 2100, global sea level rise would be
10 cm lower with global warming of 1.5°C compared with 2°C. The likelihood of an Arctic Ocean
free of sea ice in summer would be once per century with global warming of 1.5°C, compared with
at least once per decade with 2°C. Coral reefs would decline by 70-90 percent with global warming
of 1.5°C, whereas virtually all (> 99 percent) would be lost with 2ºC.
“Every extra bit of warming matters, especially since warming of 1.5ºC or higher increases the risk
associated with long-lasting or irreversible changes, such as the loss of some ecosystems,” said
Hans-Otto Pörtner, Co-Chair of IPCC Working Group II.
Limiting global warming would also give people and ecosystems more room to adapt and remain
below relevant risk thresholds, added Pörtner. The report also examines pathways available to limit
warming to 1.5ºC, what it would take to achieve them and what the consequences could be.
- 2 -
“The good news is that some of the kinds of actions that would be needed to limit global warming to
1.5ºC are already underway around the world, but they would need to accelerate,” said Valerie
Masson-Delmotte, Co-Chair of Working Group I.
The report finds that limiting global warming to 1.5°C would require “rapid and far -reaching”
transitions in land, energy, industry, buildings, transport, and cities. Global net human-caused
emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) would need to fall by about 45 percent from 2010 levels by 2030,
reaching ‘net zero’ around 2050. This means that any remaining emissions would need to be
balanced by removing CO2 from the air.
“Limiting warming to 1.5ºC is possible within the laws of chemistry and physics but doing so would
require unprecedented changes,” said Jim Skea, Co-Chair of IPCC Working Group III.
Allowing the global temperature to temporarily exceed or ‘overshoot’ 1.5ºC would mean a greater
reliance on techniques that remove CO2 from the air to return global temperature to below 1.5ºC by
2100. The effectiveness of such techniques are unproven at large scale and some may carry
significant risks for sustainable development, the report notes.
“Limiting global warming to 1.5°C compared with 2°C would reduce challenging impacts on
ecosystems, human health and well-being, making it easier to achieve the United Nations
Sustainable Development Goals,” said Priyardarshi Shukla, Co-Chair of IPCC Working Group III.
The decisions we make today are critical in ensuring a safe and sustainable world for everyone,
both now and in the future, said Debra Roberts, Co-Chair of IPCC Working Group II.
“This report gives policymakers and practitioners the information they need to make decisions that
tackle climate change while considering local context and people’s needs. The next few years are
probably the most important in our history,” she said.
The IPCC is the leading world body f or assessing the science related to climate change, its impacts
and potential future risks, and possible response options.
The report was prepared under the scientific leadership of all three IPCC working groups. Working
Group I assesses the physical science basis of climate change; Working Group II addresses
impacts, adaptation and vulnerability; and Working Group III deals with the mitigation of climate
change.
The Paris Agreement adopted by 195 nations at the 21st Conference of the Parties to the UNFCCC
in December 2015 included the aim of strengthening the global response to the threat of climate
change by “holding the increase in the global average temperature to well below 2°C above pre-
industrial levels and pursuing efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5°C above pre-industrial
levels.”
As part of the decision to adopt the Paris Agreement, the IPCC was invited to produce, in 2018, a
Special Report on global warming of 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels and related global
greenhouse gas emission pathways. The IPCC accepted the invitation, adding that the Special
Report would look at these issues in the context of strengthening the global response to the threat
of climate change, sustainable development, and efforts to eradicate poverty.
Global Warming of 1.5ºC is the first in a series of Special Reports to be produced in the IPCC’s
Sixth Assessment Cycle. Next year the IPCC will release the Special Report on the Ocean and
Cryosphere in a Changing Climate, and Climate Change and Land, which looks at how climate
change affects land use.
- 3 -
The Summary for Policymakers (SPM) presents the key findings of the Special Report, based on the
assessment of the available scientific, technical and socio-economic literature relevant to global warming
of 1.5°C.
The Summary for Policymakers of the Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5ºC (SR15) is
available at http://www.ipcc.ch/report/sr15/ or www.ipcc.ch.
Key statistics of the Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5ºC
91 authors from 44 citizenships and 40 countries of residence
- 14 Coordinating Lead Authors (CLAs)
- 60 Lead authors (LAs)
- 17 Review Editors (REs)
133 Contributing authors (CAs)
Over 6,000 cited references
A total of 42,001 expert and government review comments
(First Order Draft 12,895; Second Order Draft 25,476; Final Government Draft: 3,630)
For more information, contact:
IPCC Press Office, Email: ipcc-media@wmo.int
Werani Zabula +41 79 108 3157 or Nina Peeva +41 79 516 7068
Follow IPCC on Facebook, Twitter , LinkedIn and Instagram
Notes for editors
The Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5 ºC , known as SR15, is being prepared in response to
an invitation from the 21st Conference of the Parties (COP21) to the United Nations Framework
Convention on Climate Change in December 2015, when they reached the Paris Agreement, and
will inform the Talanoa Dialogue at the 24th Conference of the Parties (COP24). The Talanoa
Dialogue will take stock of the collective efforts of Parties in relation to progress towards the long -
term goal of the Paris Agreement, and to inform the preparation of nationally determined
contributions. Details of the report, including the approved outline, can be found on the report page.
The report was prepared under the joint scientific leadership of all three IPCC Working Groups, with
support from the Working Group I Technical Support Unit.
What is the IPCC?
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is the UN body for assessing the science
related to climate change. It was established by the United Nations Environment Programme (UN
Environment) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) in 1988 to provide policymakers
with regular scientific assessments concerning climate change, its implications and potential future
risks, as well as to put forward adaptation and mitigation strategies. It has 195 member states.
IPCC assessments provide governments, at all levels, with scientific information that they can use to
develop climate policies. IPCC assessments are a key input into the international negotiations to
tackle climate change. IPCC reports are drafted and reviewed in several stages, thus g uaranteeing
objectivity and transparency.
The IPCC assesses the thousands of scientific papers published each year to tell policymakers
what we know and don't know about the risks related to climate change. The IPCC identifies where
- 4 -
there is agreement in the scientific community, where there are differences of opinion, and where
further research is needed. It does not conduct its own research.
To produce its reports, the IPCC mobilizes hundreds of scientists. These scientists and officials are
drawn from diverse backgrounds. Only a dozen permanent staff work in the IPCC's Secretariat.
The IPCC has three working groups: Working Group I, dealing with the physical science basis of
climate change; Working Group II, dealing with impacts, adaptation and vulnerability; and Working
Group III, dealing with the mitigation of climate change. It also has a Task Force on National
Greenhouse Gas Inventories that develops methodologies for measuring emissions and removals.
IPCC Assessment Reports consist of contributions from each of the three working groups and a
Synthesis Report. Special Reports undertake an assessment of cross-disciplinary issues that span
more than one working group and are shorter and more focused than the main assessments.
Sixth Assessment Cycle
At its 41st Session in February 2015, the IPCC decided to produce a Sixth Assessment Report
(AR6). At its 42nd Session in October 2015 it elected a new Bureau that would oversee the work on
this report and Special Reports to be produced in the assessment cycle. At its 43rd Session in April
2016, it decided to produce three Special Reports, a Methodology Report and AR6.
The Methodology Report to refine the 2006 IPCC Guidelines for National Greenhouse Gas
Inventories will be delivered in 2019. Besides Global Warming of 1.5ºC, the IPCC will finalize two
further special reports in 2019: the Special Report on the Ocean and Cryosphere in a Changing
Climate and Climate Change and Land: an IPCC special report on climate change, desertification,
land degradation, sustainable land management, food security, and greenhouse gas fluxes in
terrestrial ecosystems. The AR6 Synthesis Report will be finalized in the first half of 2022, following
the three working group contributions to AR6 in 2021.
For more information, including links to the IPCC reports, go to: www.ipcc.ch
ORANGE WATER AND SEWER AUTHORITY
A public, non-profit agency providing water, sewer and reclaimed water services
to the Carrboro-Chapel Hill community.
400 Jones Ferry Road
Carrboro, NC 27510-2001
Equal Opportunity Employer
Printed on Recycled Paper
Voice (919) 968-4421
www.owasa.org
MEMORANDUM
TO: Natural Resources and Technical Services (NRTS) Committee
John Young (Chair)
Bruce Boehm
Jody Eimers
John Morris
Yinka Ayankoya (ex officio)
THROUGH: Ed Kerwin
FROM: Ruth Rouse
DATE: November 2, 2018
SUBJECT: November 8, 2018 NRTS Committee Meeting
The NRTS Committee will meet on Thursday November 8, 2018 at 4:00 pm in the OWASA
Boardroom. The purpose of the meeting will be to discuss a draft framework to manage
OWASA’s forested watershed lands.
The enclosed document provides additional background information.
We look forward to seeing you on November 8 and to receiving your questions, comments, and
feedback regarding this important topic.
________________________
Ruth Rouse, AICP
Planning and Development Manager
c: OWASA Board of Directors
Robert Epting, OWASA General Counsel
Attachments
Attachment 1: Draft Approach for Managing Forested Watershed Lands
Draft Approach for Managing Forested Watershed Lands
Background
OWASA owns approximately 2,400 acres of forested lands to support our core mission of
providing water, wastewater, and reclaimed water services for the Chapel Hill-Carrboro
community. These land holdings are mapped in Figure 1 and summarized in Table 1. These
lands include watershed protection lands to protect Cane Creek Reservoir; the Cane Creek
Mitigation Tract, which was purchased to mitigate the impacts to wildlife as part of the permit
process to construct Cane Creek Reservoir; lands for our biosolids program; and land for a
potential water treatment plant near Jordan Lake in Chatham County. In addition, OWASA has
protected approximately 770 acres of land through conservation easements on private property in
the Cane Creek Reservoir and University Lake watersheds.
Table 1: Summary of OWASA-Owned Forested Land (Acres rounded to nearest tens)
Purpose Acres
Watershed protection 1,260
Wildlife mitigation (and watershed protection) 490
Biosolids program 530
Potential water treatment plant 110
Total 2,390
OWASA recognizes the benefit of forested land to protect its water supply reservoirs. However,
some of the forests it owns are poor quality and are diseased, include storm damage areas, or
were planted with pines that are too close together which provides little wildlife benefit. Some
of these poor quality areas also pose a fire risk. OWASA would like to manage its forests to
protect water quality, improve the forest quality, and reduce fire risk.
OWASA implemented a forest management plan developed by the North Carolina Wildlife
Resources Commission on the 491-acre Cane Creek Mitigation Tract to comply with state and
federal permit requirements. To address the remaining 1,900 acres of forested land, OWASA
hired True North Forest Management Services to develop plans to manage them. These Forest
Stewardship Plans were presented to the public in late 2010 and subsequently put on hold
following extensive public comments and concerns, and OWASA’s need to focus on higher
priority strategic plan initiatives. OWASA made a promise to the public that it would conduct a
public meeting before implementing any forest management on these 1,900 acres. In addition,
the local government Boards (Town of Chapel Hill Council, Town of Carrboro Board of
Aldermen, and Orange County Board of County Commissioners) requested a presentation on the
draft Forest Management Plan before it is finalized.
Draft Approach for Managing Forested Watershed Lands
Page 2
Figure 1: OWASA-Owned Forested Land
Draft Approach for Managing Forested Watershed Lands
Page 3
Strategic Initiative 6 of the Board of Directors’ Strategic Plan is to develop a plan and policy
framework for long-term management of OWASA lands. One action identified is to develop a
long-term plan for sustainable management of OWASA forest lands; management could range
from no active management to comprehensive management that includes a variety of forest
management activities. As a first step in addressing this initiative, staff presented the Board of
Directors with an overview of OWASA’s land holdings and past discussions on May 25, 2017.
At that meeting, the Board requested that staff draft a Community Engagement Plan (CEP) for
forest management and present that draft plan by the end of fiscal year 2018.
Staff began drafting a CEP to present to the Board, but determined that it was important to
discuss an overall approach for managing our forested land prior to developing a detailed CEP.
The Board supported this suggestion; staff presented a draft approach to manage our forested
land at the May 10, 2018 work session. The Board requested that staff work with the Natural
Resources and Technical Services Committee to develop a process for OWASA’s forest
management program. Staff heard the following comments during the Board meeting to
consider when drafting a framework:
• OWASA should develop draft guiding principles and then provide the public an
opportunity to comment on them. OWASA staff concurs with this.
• OWASA should prioritize its lands for management and provide opportunities for
feedback on plans developed for smaller areas rather than the entire remaining 1,900
acres in need of management (Plans for the entire 1,900 acres were presented to the
public in one meeting in 2010). OWASA staff agrees that presenting plans for smaller
areas would provide opportunities for more meaningful input from the public. A
disadvantage of this approach is that it does not provide a comprehensive picture of what
is planned for all 1,900 acres.
• OWASA should evaluate the existing Forest Stewardship Plans against the final guiding
principles to determine whether the existing Plans meet the guiding principles or are in
need of change. Staff concurs with this suggestion.
• OWASA should use the expertise of other land management agencies and groups as well
as forester expertise in developing our program. Staff concurs with this suggestion.
Proposed Framework to Develop a Sustainable Program to Manage OWASA’s Forested
Watershed Lands
Staff’s proposed framework is illustrated in Figure 2. It is important to note that Figure 2 does
not include details on how we would engage the community. Once the overall process is agreed
upon, we anticipate working with the Board to develop a complementary CEP. In addition, each
of these steps would likely include substeps to include draft and final versions of documents. As
we develop the CEP and apply what we learn as we move through the process in an adaptive
management approach, staff could modify or include additional details in Figure 2. The
following basic steps are identified:
1. Develop Purpose and Guiding Principles for sustainable management of OWASA’s
forested watershed lands – The purpose and guiding principles would serve as the
Draft Approach for Managing Forested Watershed Lands
Page 4
foundation for prioritizing our forested land for management and for developing the
Forest Stewardship Plans.
2. Prioritize Forested Stands for Management – Based on the guiding principles, OWASA
would prioritize its forested stands for management.
3. Evaluate 2010 Forest Stewardship Plan for highest priority forested stands against the
guiding principles. This evaluation would be done in the priority order established in the
second step. Staff proposes beginning this evaluation with approximately the top 10
percent of forested stands.
4. Update the Forest Stewardship Plans for the prioritized forested stands as needed to
align with the guiding principles in priority order.
5. Adopt Forest Stewardship Plans for the prioritized forested stands.
6. Implement Final Plans – Each Plan would be implemented based on information
included in the final Plan.
Proposed Next Steps
Staff suggests the following next steps:
1. Staff modifies the framework based on NRTS Committee feedback.
2. Staff and the Committee present the framework to the Board of Directors for
concurrence; at this meeting the Board should also provide guidance to staff on whether
they would like the full Board or a Committee to review a draft CEP.
3. Staff draft a CEP and show opportunities for community engagement in the various
components of the draft framework and bring this to the Board or a Committee for
discussion as directed in Step 2.
Figure 2: Overall Process for a Sustainable Forest Management Program
Note: This figure does not include Community Engagement, which would be developed after the overall framework is agreed upon