(a) Findings. The County Council finds that trees and forest cover constitute an important natural resource. Trees filter groundwater, reduce surface runoff, help alleviate flooding, and supply necessary habitat for wildlife. They cleanse the air, offset the heat island effects of urban development, and reduce energy needs. They improve the quality of life in a community by providing for recreation, compatibility between different land uses, and aesthetic appeal. The Council finds that tree loss as a result of development and other land disturbing activities is a serious problem in the County.
(b) Purpose. The purpose of this Chapter is to:
(1) save, maintain, and plant trees and forested areas for the benefit of County residents and future generations;
(2) establish procedures, standards, and requirements to minimize tree loss as a result of development and to protect trees and forests during and after construction or other land disturbing activities;
(3) establish procedures, standards, and requirements for afforestation and reforestation of land subject to an application for development approval or a sediment control permit;
(4) establish a fund for future tree conservation projects, including afforestation and reforestation; and
(5) provide a focused and coordinated approach for County forest conservation activities. (1992 L.M.C., ch. 4, § 1)