The Hiwassee River watershed contains an abundance and variety of high-quality natural resources, from unique mountain ranges with exquisite unbroken views and lush farmlands, to rushing mountain streams, serene lakes, and clear water. These natural features draw people to the area for recreation and high quality of life experiences. However, this once remote mountain area is quickly changing as more and more people decide to live and vacation here. Although the benefits of population growth and development include increased tax revenues and jobs, the costs of public services such as road maintenance, emergency response, environmental protection, and education increase substantially. There are additional far-reaching costs as well, including degraded water quality and the loss of undeveloped mountain views, farmland, and community character.
Ms. Moore will present a 25-minute video entitled "Working Together for Responsible Growth" followed by a brief lecture. There will be a group discussion of the challenges we face as we continue to grow, the current concerns related to water quality in the area, and the opportunities we have to insure adequate protection of our natural resources.
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