Ecological sensitivity crucial in Philips tract development

Published Wednesday, January 28, 2004
Columbia Dailly Tribune

Editor, the Tribune: The critical issue concerning the Philips tract proposed development is not that development occurs here but that the level of development be compatible with the ecological sensitivity of the watershed. As proposed, the Philips tract would be developed to roughly 35 percent impervious cover on almost 500 acres with twice the amount of commercial space of the Columbia Mall - a level of development that is simply too intense for this site. At the least, the following conditions must be tied to any rezoning:

1. That clear standards be established for protecting the water resources. These standards must ensure that there will be no negative impacts of development on the hydrology, morphology, water quality and biological health of the receiving waters.
2. That enforcement mechanisms are in place in ensure compliance.
3. That the responsibility for the maintenance of best management practices, or BMP, to mitigate the effects of storm-water runoff be determined.
4. That monitoring of receiving waters occurs during the construction and post-construction phases of development to determine whether the BMP are effective.

Until a comprehensive storm-water ordinance for the city is completed, these conditions will hopefully ensure adequate protection of this sensitive watershed.

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Larry Magliola