During a four hour planning session in May 2006, URREP members identified four primary strategic issues that can be summarized as the need for:

1. Improved Watershed Education

Lack of awareness of the issues facing the watershed is at the root of many problems the area currently faces. The general public is not the only group uninformed about watershed issues – elected officials and URREP members also need more information so that they can practice and promote actions within the watershed that will lead to greater sustainability of the resources found here.

2. Resource Sensitive Land Use Planning and Ordinances

Land conversion – from open, agricultural land to residential and commercial uses – is happening at a rapid pace in the Upper Rock watershed. Local land use plans and development ordinances (e.g. zoning, subdivision, stormwater) set the minimum standards that must be followed when land is being developed. Presently, local plans and ordinances do not promote the use of “conservation design” principles, nor do they encourage innovative stormwater management practices.

3. Preservation of Open Space

There is a strong interest in having a comprehensive land preservation program in the watershed. While there are various “greenway” or other open space plans, there is no comprehensive land preservation strategy for the region. The effort would include natural land protection as well as preservation of farmland.

4. Membership Growth & Development

There is a feeling that the partnership needs to do a better job of “educating” members about watershed issues, while also needing to increase membership size and diversity. As an all volunteer group, the URREP can only accomplish its goals if members are willing and able to take an active role in advocating the partnership’s messages to the media, elected and appointed officials and other residents in the area.