Competing Waterfront Usage
Posted on 3 Nov in CW Land Use Blog Posts Uncategorized
Background/overview
Municipalities in the region are experiencing conflicts and differing points of view surrounding the development of waterfront areas. Different stakeholder groups including tourism, recreation, residential and commercial interests must be balanced when creating zoning regulations and long-term land-use plans. With water resources becoming more utilized by a growing range of users, increased conflict can be expected from competing interests and potential land uses.
Water bodies in the region are used for activities such as fishing, boating and as a water supply source. In terms of industrial and commercial purposes, waters within the geographic area from Deer Lake to Cat Arm and the entire Baie Verte Peninsula are also used for hydroelectric production at Cat Arm, Deer Lake and Rattle Brook and for irrigation on agriculturally developed land, primarily in the Cormack and Green Bay areas with smaller hobby type farms dispersed throughout the zone.
Land-use related issues
Development around the Exploits River is a concern in the Grand Falls-Windsor area, for example. Controversy arose when proposed residential and commercial development in the area was seen as a concern by environmental groups due to the area’s rich fish and wildlife (particularly salmon) and the potential decrease in tourism. Another potential issue surrounds the uses of waterfronts in areas typically associated with an aging population and shifting demographics. For instance, in the province while young people often leave rural communities there is a trend that sees retirees, families and tourists moving into some of these areas, increasing the demand for recreational opportunities such as hiking[K1] or snowmobiling paths. Furthermore, lands located near the ocean or near ponds can become highly sought after for development of homes or cabins, creating potential for waterfront land use conflicts.
Related information resources
http://www.townofgrandfallswindsor.com/residents/riverfront-re-development-2011-2012
[K1]Walking for seniors perhaps?
