Marin Stream Conservation Ordinance Enters Public Review Period

SAN RAFAEL, CA—Members of the public are encouraged to give their feedback on the proposed law that would create a buffer zone between San Geronimo Valley waterways and human development in Marin County.

The proposed Stream Conservation Area ordinance aims to protect the San Geronimo Creek Watershed, which is home to endangered coho salmon, steelhead trout, and chinook salmon.

There will be a community workshop with the county Planning Commission on October 5 about the ordinance. A formal Planning Commission hearing will follow November 8. The Marin County Board of Supervisors would vote on the ordinance no earlier than December 7.

The Stream Conservation Area would consist of the waterways themselves, and a strip of land extending from the top of both banks.

Any development proposed within the Stream Conservation Area requires a site assessment. People who already have structures within the proposed buffer zone are permitted to maintain and repair these structures. There are also other permitted land uses and improvements, such as water-monitoring installations and some additions to existing structures.

You may read the full ordinance here.

The San Geronimo Valley includes Woodacre, San Geronimo, Forest Knolls, and Lagunitas.