Goals

1. Goal LU-2 Land Use Mix and Compatibility

   An arrangement of land uses that balances the lifestyle of existing residents, the needs of future generations, opportunities for commercial and industrial development, and the value of the natural environment.

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Policies

1. Policy LU-2.3 Compatibility with natural environment

   We require that new development is located, scaled, buffered, and designed for compatibility with the surrounding natural environment and biodiversity.

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2. Policy LU-2.5 Hillside preservation

   We require that new development in sloping hillside areas preserve the natural character of the surrounding environment and does not further exacerbate natural hazards or erosion.

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3. Policy LU-2.14 Contiguous land administration

   We support the consolidation of disconnected land areas under public ownership or administration to increase financial and environmental value, streamline the management of land and resources, and establish more complete and effective transition areas or buffers. Such consolidation may include transfer of title of property among public entities and the purchase or swapping of private property voluntarily sold when the consolidation is fiscally neutral or beneficial to the County.

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4. Policy LU-4.4 Natural topography in the Mountain region

   We require new development in the Mountain region to retain natural topography and minimize grading unless it is necessary to reduce exposure to natural hazards.

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5. Policy LU-4.5 Community identity

   We require that new development be consistent with and reinforce the physical and historical character and identity of our unincorporated communities, as described in Table LU-3 and in the values section of Community Action Guides. In addition, we consider the aspirations section of Community Action Guides in our review of new development.

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6. Policy LU-5.6 Military partnerships

   We maintain effective partnerships among military and community stakeholders and pursue joint projects that provide long-term mutual benefits for the military, County, and general public.

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Goals

1. Goal H-2 Development Regulations

   An efficient administrative process that recognizes the need for efficient and timely review of residential projects while also ensuring and valuing the need for quality design, environmental review, and planning.

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Goals

1. Goal NR-3 Open Space, Parks, and Recreation

   A system of well-planned and maintained parks, trails, and open space that provides recreation opportunities for residents, attracts visitors from across the region and around the country, and preserves the natural environment.

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2. Goal NR-6 Mineral Resources

   Mineral resource zones that allow extraction industries to continue supporting the regional and national economy while minimizing negative impacts on the public and natural environment

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3. Goal NR-7 Agriculture and Soils

   The ability of property owners, farmers, and ranchers to conduct sustainable and economically viable agricultural operations

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Policies

1. Policy NR-2.1 Coordination on water quality

   We collaborate with the state, regional water quality control boards, watermasters, water purveyors, and government agencies at all levels to ensure a safe supply of drinking water and a healthy environment.

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2. Policy NR-2.2 Water management plans

   We support the development, update, and implementation of ground and surface water quality management plans emphasizing the protection of water quality from point and non-point source pollution.

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3. Policy NR-2.6 Agricultural waste and biosolids

   We coordinate with regional water quality control boards and other responsible agencies to regulate and control animal waste and biosolids in order to protect groundwater and the natural environment.

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4. Policy NR-3.1 Open space preservation

   We regulate land use and coordinate with public and nongovernmental agencies to preserve open space areas that protect natural resources, function as a buffer against natural hazards or between land uses, serve as a recreation or tourist destination, or are central to the identity of an unincorporated community.

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5. Policy NR-3.2 Residential clustering

   We allow residential development to cluster housing units in order to reduce the consumption of undeveloped land, maximize the amount of open space, preserve natural resources, conform to natural topography/grade, and/or reduce exposure of structures to natural hazards.

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6. Policy NR-3.3 Management of designated areas

   We coordinate with public and nongovernmental agencies to sustainably manage and conserve land within or adjacent to locally-, state-, or federally-designated open space or resource conservation areas.

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7. Policy NR-3.5 Private conservation efforts

   We support nongovernmental organizations and private entities who purchase, own, maintain, and expand areas for conservation and preservation. We also support the voluntary transition of privately held lands within a larger boundary designated by the state or federal government for open space and resource conservation to public ownership.

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8. Policy NR-3.7 Regional park revenue

   We generate revenues from County-owned parks and facilities to offset the costs of operation and maintenance. We may also coordinate with local jurisdictions and leverage other resources to support the maintenance and improvement of park and trail facilities.

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9. Policy NR-3.8 Regional trail system

   We coordinate with incorporated jurisdictions, state and federal agencies, and other regional and not-for-profit entities to maintain and improve a regional trail system. We prioritize the maintenance and improvement of the Santa Ana River Trail, followed by the creation of trails in unincorporated areas that connect to existing trails in incorporated areas and to state- and federally-maintained trails.

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10. Policy NR-4.1 Preservation of scenic resources

    We consider the location and scale of development to preserve regionally significant scenic vistas and natural features, including prominent hillsides, ridgelines, dominant landforms, and reservoirs.

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11. Policy NR-4.2 Coordination with agencies

    We coordinate with adjacent federal, state, local, and tribal agencies to protect scenic resources that extend beyond the County’s land use authority and are important to countywide residents, businesses, and tourists.

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12. Policy NR-5.1 Coordinated habitat planning

    We participate in landscape-scale habitat conservation planning and coordinate with existing or proposed habitat conservation and natural resource management plans for private and public lands to increase certainty for both the conservation of species, habitats, wildlife corridors, and other important biological resources and functions; and for land development and infrastructure permitting.

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13. Policy NR-5.2 Capacity for resource protection and management

    We coordinate with public and nongovernmental agencies to seek funding and other resources to protect, restore, and maintain open space, habitat, and wildlife corridors for threatened, endangered, and other sensitive species.

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14. Policy NR-5.3 Multiple-resource benefits

    We prioritize conservation actions that demonstrate multiple resource preservation benefits, such as biology, climate change adaptation and resiliency, hydrology, cultural, scenic, and community character.

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15. Policy NR-5.4 Off-base recovery efforts

    We coordinate with military installations to facilitate off-base recovery of threatened and endangered species and landscape-scale conservation.

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16. Policy NR-5.6 Mitigation banking

    We support the proactive assemblage of lands to protect biological resources and facilitate development through private or public mitigation banking. We require public and private conservation lands or mitigation banks to ensure that easement and fee title agreements provide funding methods sufficient to manage the land in perpetuity.

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17. Policy NR-5.7 Development review, entitlement, and mitigation

    We comply with state and federal regulations regarding protected species of animals and vegetation through the development review, entitlement, and environmental clearance processes.

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18. Policy NR-5.8 Invasive species

    We require the use of non-invasive plant species with new development and encourage the management of existing invasive plant species that degrade ecological function.

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19. Policy NR-6.2 Mining operations and reclamation

    We require and monitor mineral extraction activities to ensure that the operation and reclamation of mined lands is consistent with the State Surface Mining and Reclamation Act of 1975 (SMARA).

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20. Policy NR-7.1 Protection of agricultural land

    We protect economically viable and productive agricultural lands from the adverse effects of urban encroachment, particularly increased erosion and sedimentation, trespass, and non-agricultural land development.

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21. Policy NR-7.2 Preservation of important farmlands

    We require project applicants seeking to develop 20 or more acres of farmland (classified as prime, of statewide importance, or unique farmland) to non-agricultural uses to prepare an agricultural resource evaluation prior to project approval. The evaluation shall use generally accepted methodologies to identify the potentially significant impact of the loss of agricultural land as well as the economic viability and sustainability of future agricultural use of the property, including long-term sustainability and economic viability of water resources. If the conversion is deemed significant, the County shall require mitigation at a 1:1 ratio of converted to preserved acreage through conservation easements, payment of its valuation equivalent if a fee mitigation program is established, or inclusion in a regional agricultural preservation program.

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22. Policy NR-7.3 Conservation and preservation incentives

    We support programs and policies that provide tax and economic incentives to conserve existing productive agricultural lands or preserve farmland classified as prime, of statewide importance, unique, or of local importance. We support land owners in establishing new and maintaining existing California Land Conservation (Williamson Act) contracts.

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23. Policy NR-7.6 Sustainable grazing practices

    We require all grazing on open rangelands to be compatible with the conservation of threatened and endangered species.

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Goals

1. Goal RE-5 Siting

   Renewable energy facilities will be located in areas that meet County standards, local values, community needs and environmental and cultural resource protection priorities

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Policies

1. Policy RE-4.5

   Require RE generation facility developers to provide and implement a decommissioning plan that provides for reclamation of the site to a condition at least as good as that which existed before the lands were disturbed or another appropriate end use that is stable (i.e. with interim vegetative cover), prevents nuisance, and is readily adaptable for alternative land uses. Decommissioning plans shall:

   • RE 4.5.1: Include a cost estimate of the decommissioning and site restoration work for the purpose of providing a bond to guarantee completion of decommissioning.
   • RE 4.5.2: Provide for an inspection after all decommissioning and site restoration work to ensure that the work has been completed to the standards required by the County, prior to release of the decommissioning bond.
   • RE 4.5.3: Require any structures created during construction to be decommissioned and all material recycled to the greatest extent possible.
   • RE 4.5.4: Require all material recovered during decommissioning and site restoration work of a renewable energy facility, including the renewable energy technology itself, to be reused or recycled to the greatest extent possible.
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2. Policy RE-4.6

   Require all recyclable electronic and/or toxic materials to be recycled in accordance with the requirements of the Basel Convention or comparable standard.

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3. Policy RE-4.7

   RE project site selection and site design shall be guided by the following priorities relative to habitat conservation and mitigation:

   1. Avoid sensitive habitat, including wildlife corridors, during site selection and project design.
   2. Where necessary and feasible, conduct mitigation on-site.
   3. When on-site habitat mitigation is not possible or adequate, establish mitigation off-site in an area designated for habitat conservation.
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4. Policy RE-4.8

   Encourage mitigation for RE generation facility projects to locate habitat conservation offsets on public lands where suitable habitat is available.

   • RE 4.8.1: Collaborate with appropriate state and federal agencies to facilitate mitigation/habitat conservation activities on public lands
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5. Policy RE-4.9

   Encourage RE facility developers to design projects in ways that provide sanctuary (i.e., a safe place to nest, breed and/or feed) for native bees, butterflies and birds where feasible and appropriate, according to expert recommendations.

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Goals

1. Goal CR-1 Tribal Cultural Resources

   Tribal cultural resources that are preserved and celebrated out of respect for Native American beliefs and traditions

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2. Goal CR-2 Historic and Paleontological Resources

   Historic resources (buildings, structures, or archaeological resources) and paleontological resources that are protected and preserved for their cultural importance to local communities as well as their research and educational potential.

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Policies

1. Policy CR-1.3 Mitigation and avoidance

   We consult with local tribes to establish appropriate project-specific mitigation measures and resource-specific treatment of potential cultural resources. We require project applicants to design projects to avoid known tribal cultural resources, whenever possible. If avoidance is not possible, we require appropriate mitigation to minimize project impacts on tribal cultural resources.

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2. Policy CR-2.1 National and state historic resources

   We encourage the preservation of archaeological sites and structures of state or national significance in accordance with the Secretary of Interior’s standards.

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3. Policy CR-2.2 Local historic resources

   We encourage property owners to maintain the historic integrity of resources on their property by (listed in order of preference): preservation, adaptive reuse, or memorialization.

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4. Policy CR-2.3 Paleontological and archaeological resources

   We strive to protect paleontological and archaeological resources from loss or destruction by requiring that new development include appropriate mitigation to preserve the quality and integrity of these resources. We require new development to avoid paleontological and archeological resources whenever possible. If avoidance is not possible, we require the salvage and preservation of paleontological and archeological resources.

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5. Policy CR-2.4 Partnerships

   We encourage partnerships to champion and financially support the preservation and restoration of historic sites, structures, and districts.

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6. Policy CR-2.5 Public awareness and education

   We increase public awareness and conduct education efforts about the unique historic, natural, tribal, and cultural resources in San Bernardino County through the County Museum and in collaboration with other entities.

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Related Materials

1. There are no related maps, tables, or figures See the related documents listed at the bottom of the Element for other materials related to governance ()

1. FOCUS STATEMENT A - Improve the quality of our built environment to enhance community health, safety, neighborhood character, and the image of our business corridors.

   Action Statement A.2

   Establish a community cleanup program in collaboration with community service organizations, local schools, and Big Bear Disposal to assist with large item trash pickup at least two times per year.

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   Action Statement A.8

   Create and maintain a healthy forest and forest fuels management program.

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2. FOCUS STATEMENT C - Build human capital and promote enterprise, with a focus on environmentally friendly businesses, to strengthen the local economy and provide opportunities for residents and families to be self-reliant.

   Action Statement C.1

   Promote child and youth development, social and civic responsibility, and environmental stewardship by establishing a multigenerational community council with youth in leadership positions to advocate for and support activities that enrich our community and our environment.

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3. FOCUS STATEMENT D - Become a destination renowned for culture, environment, health, and well-being for people of all ages and abilities.

   Action Statement D.1

   Establish a resource conservation program to designate open space resources, establish a dedicated funding source, and actively promote open space protection through land acquisition, conservation easements, mitigation monitoring, volunteer support, and other similar tools.

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   Action Statement D.2

   Promote family- and eco-friendly tourism that educates people about our natural surroundings, dark skies, and quiet nature.

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1. FOCUS STATEMENT D - Clean up the community

   Action Statement D.3

   Focus signage and education activities on community stewardship for tourists and visitors.

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1. FOCUS STATEMENT C - Create affordable outdoor recreation activities that capitalize on the natural environment, attract visitors, and provide entertainment for residents while also reducing the associated impacts to the communities

   Action Statement C.4

   Develop programs and marketing materials that educate visitors on the natural environment and importance of its protection in order to foster responsible tourist behavior.

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   Action Statement C.5

   Encourage the establishment of ecotourism businesses.

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2. FOCUS STATEMENT D - Provide a thriving and vibrant local small business environment

   Action Statement D.1

   Attract and retain permanent residents by developing and implementing a marketing campaign to highlight the values of mountain living for young families focusing on education, family values, community, natural environment, and activities.

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1. FOCUS STATEMENT A - Preserve the desert ecosystem, its natural beauty, and the community’s harmonious relationship with the environment

   Action Statement A.1

   Partner with organizations such as Mojave Desert Land Trust to conserve natural desert habitats and wildlife corridors and to protect native plants and animals.

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   Action Statement A.4

   Promote respect for local ecosystems and be stewards of the environment.

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1. FOCUS STATEMENT B - Encourage community involvement in civic beautification and maintaining the community’s rural character

   Action Statement B.1

   Establish a community cleanup program utilizing local youth organizations to clean up trash, debris, and weeds in the Muscoy community at least four times a year.

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1. FOCUS STATEMENT C - Maintain and enhance Helendale’s aesthetic value

   Action Statement C.1

   Expand the desert cleanup program to at least 2 times a year to reduce the overall amount of refuse and litter on undeveloped and public lands within Helendale.

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   Action Statement C.3

   Design a recycled water system for irrigation and landscaping.

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2. FOCUS STATEMENT E - Improve open space and recreational opportunities for Helendale residents

   Action Statement E.2

   Establish more walking and multi-use trails within the community including areas such as the wash and the Mojave River.

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1. FOCUS STATEMENT F - Create greater recreational and educational opportunities within Lucerne Valley

   Action Statement F.3

   Enhance appreciation for the desert in school age children by partnering with local organizations and land trusts to develop a desert education program that studies the natural environment, geology, history, etc. and incorporates field trips.

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1. FOCUS STATEMENT A - Preserve and enhance the unique environmental features of the Lake Arrowhead Communities and surrounding areas

   Action Statement A.1

   Coordinate with the local schools and other organizations to educate youth on the importance of the environment and its protection.

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1. FOCUS STATEMENT C - Retain natural beauty of community.

   Action Statement C.4

   Develop a youth volunteer workforce for yard maintenance and fire clearance.

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2. FOCUS STATEMENT E - Encourage community education, outreach and concierge service

   Action Statement E.1

   Establish a web-based information concierge and how-to toolkit service that provides accurate and up-to-date information for residents covering a wide variety of topics such as public transportation, health, building and safety, wells, fire codes, group homes, etc. The site can guide users to obtain permits, participate in programs, solve related problems, or take other types of actions to improve the community.

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1. FOCUS STATEMENT B - Promote a respect for nature and the surrounding environment

   Action Statement B.1

   Develop educational signage that promotes environmental stewardship and discourages dumping of trash.

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1. FOCUS STATEMENT A - Improve the quality of life for residents

   Action Statement A.3

   Organize community clean up days twice a year.

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1. FOCUS STATEMENT A - Celebrate and maintain the rural character of Phelan Piñon Hills.

   Action Statement A.2

   Establish programs for organized livestock education for community members.

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1. FOCUS STATEMENT A - Improve the quality of the community to enhance the quality of life for citizens

   Action Statement A.2

   Create a community cleanup program in collaboration with community organizations holding two events per year.

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1. FOCUS STATEMENT A - Clean up the community

   Action Statement A.9

   Host Yermo clean up days as an event two times a year.

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1. FOCUS STATEMENT B - Improve public health and safety in Homestead Valley

   Action Statement B.2

   IN PROCESS: Host regular community clean-ups of trash and illegal dumping on public land and in public rights-of-way.

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