ne goals
Omaha may not have mountains or oceans, but did you know the city is home to one of the oldest restored tallgrass prairies in the nation and close to 300 miles of natural creeks and streams? The air, climate, landforms, water features, and plant and animal communities are part of our identity and quality of life. They help form the basis of who we are and how we think. The seven goals in the Natural Environment section of the Environmental Element seek to preserve and enhance the city’s natural environment.
7 GOALS
Land
Ensure that land use and development patterns safeguard natural ecosystems and resources while providing for the long-term health of the community’s economy, social climate and people.
Visual Resources
Preserve natural areas and views that contribute to a scenic setting and distinctive character. Minimize adverse impacts of air and light pollution on daytime views and night sky views while providing for public safety.
Natural Habitats
Preserve, protect and restore natural communities, ecosystems and their processes and habitat; provide for the needs of native species in balance with human habitation.
Urban Landscapes
Promote the use of native plants in landscaping; eliminate noxious/invasive plants; ensure the health of the city’s plant community; and improve the value of the urban landscape for beneficial wildlife.
Air and Climate
Ensure that all areas of the community have a level of air quality that promotes the health of the people and the natural environment. Enhance the microclimate throughout the community. Take responsible actions to minimize the community’s impact on climate change and mitigate changes that are predicted for the Midwest region’s climate.
Acoustic Environment
Ensure that sounds and noise levels within the community promote a high quality of life and health for metropolitan area residents and avoid harmful effects of noise pollution on wildlife.
Water
Preserve and restore natural hydrologic features and their functions; provide opportunities for people to experience and connect with natural water features; reduce the impact of urbanization on stormwater quality and quantity; ensure the safety and security of the community’s water supply; and ensure that water supply and demand are balanced and sustainable for the community’s long-term needs and in consideration of potential climate change impacts.