These effects on hydrology can result in degradation of streams by changing the pattern of water flow through the streams. Often, the fish and the organisms on which they feed cannot adjust to these changes. If they are not properly managed, these pollutants can find their way to surface waterways and groundwater via storm water flows and infiltration of rainwater. Sediment from construction and landscaping activity, pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers from yard maintenance, and metals and oil from automobile use are common examples of pollutants that come hand in hand with urban development. There are many reasons a local government may choose to address the water quality impacts of urban activity through education programs or new local ordinances.
Clean water is a valuable asset for any jurisdiction.
There are also several state and federal regulations that ultimately require local jurisdictions to take some action to reduce impacts on water quality. The following is a list of regulations that are related to water quality and aquatic habitat preservation and that have components that direct activity at the local government level. The goal of this guidebook is to provide local communities, both small cities and counties, with a practical guide to protecting and enhancing water quality through improved land use regulations. The guidebook includes model development code ordinances and comprehensive plan policies that are ready for implementation. It also offers references to other publications and resources providing background information on the link between development activity and water quality.