Karen, would this be something for the planning commission and Will with regional planning comm.?

From: Vermont Municipal Government Discussion Network [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Bower, Jennifer
Sent: Tuesday, January 23, 2018 2:46 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Webinar Announcement - Implementing Act 171: Land Use Planning to Address Forest Fragmentation

Hello MUNINET,

The Vermont Center for Geographic Information is pleased to announce the following webinar, scheduled for next Monday, January 29, 6:00-7:30 PM.

Beginning in 2018, Vermont’s Act 171 requires that municipalities and regions that are updating their municipal and regional plans identify areas that are important as “forest blocks” and “habitat connectors” and plan for development in those areas to minimize forest fragmentation. As town and regional plans come up for revision, many communities are now attempting to create the required maps and write appropriate language. This webinar will provide background, tools, and samples for this implementation process. 

We will cover: 
• What Act 171 requires of towns and regional planning commissions 
• Sample town and regional plan language 
• Guidance on finding, interpreting, and creating the required maps using the VT Agency of Natural Resources’ BioFinder website 
• Case studies of policies that maintain and protect forests and connectivity 

We’ll also leave time to respond to questions. The panel of presenters includes: Jens Hilke or Monica Przyperhart, VT Fish & Wildlife; Jamey Fidel, VT Natural Resources Council; Clare Rock, Central VT RPC. 

Please register at the following link: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/7321273382762344962

If you can’t make it, additional webinars are scheduled for February 12 and March 1.

Best,

Jenny Bower | GIS Professional
Vermont Center for Geographic Information
1 National Life Dr., Davis Bldg., 6th Floor | Montpelier, VT 05620-0501
(802) 522-3054