(A) Buffers adjacent to stream systems and coastal areas provide numerous environmental protection and resource management benefits which can include the following:
(1) Restoring and maintaining the chemical, physical and biological integrity of the water resources;
(2) Removing pollutants delivered in urban stormwater;
(3) Reducing erosion and controlling sedimentation;
(4) Stabilizing stream banks;
(5) Providing infiltration of stormwater runoff;
(6) Maintaining base flow of streams; and
(7) Providing riparian wildlife habitat.
(B) It is the desire of the City Public Services Department to protect and maintain the native vegetation in riparian and wetland areas by implementing specifications for the establishment, protection and maintenance of vegetated buffers along all stream systems and within the city's jurisdictional authority.
(Ord. passed 8-13-03)