All mining permit applications shall identify the location and acreage of prime farmlands, unique farmland, and farmland of statewide significance, as shown on the State Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program (FMMP) which, as a result of reclamation, would be permanently converted to non- agricultural uses. For each acre of farmland in these categories that would be converted to non-agricultural use, the reclamation plan shall present provisions to offset the conversion of these lands, at a ratio consistent with Section 8-2.404 (Agricultural Conservation and Mitigation Program) of the County Code. This mitigation requirement may be satisfied using a variety of flexible options identified below so long as the total acreage of benefit is found to be equivalent to the applicable ratio and acreage required under Section 8-2.404 of the County Code, by type and amount of farmland being impacted, and so long as a minimum ratio of 1:1 of permanently protected agriculture land of equivalent or better quality/capability is achieved.
(a) Implementation of improvements, identified by a qualified soil scientist, to the agricultural capability of non-prime lands within the project site or outside the project site but within the OCMP area, that convert non-prime to prime agricultural conditions. These improvements can include permanent improvement of soil capability through soil amendments, reduction of soil limitations (such as excessive levels of toxins), or improvements in drainage for areas limited by flooding or low permeability soils.
(b) Placement of permanent conservation easements on land of equal or better quality/capability. The operator shall be encouraged to target property "at risk" of conversion to non-agricultural uses in selecting areas for permanent protection. Prior to approval of the conservation easement, the operator shall consult with the County and/or an appropriate non-profit agency to determine the relative risk of conversion, to which the proposed property might otherwise be subject. A minimum ratio of 1:1 is required in this category.
(c) Dedication of land, funding, or equivalent improvements, consistent with the County’s net gains goals, above and beyond the net gains benefits otherwise required under the CCAP
program.
(d) Dedication of land, funding, or equivalent improvements, consistent with the Parkway Plan, above and beyond net gains benefits otherwise required under the CCAP program. (§ 1, Ord. 1191, eff. September 5, 1996; as amended by Ord. 1518, eff. February 13, 2020)