Natural Hazards Planning

Florida is recognized as one of North America’s most important reservoirs for biological diversity, with many of its species of flora and fauna not found anywhere else. The 5,096 square miles of land and water in the Northeast Florida region lie within the lower part of the Atlantic Coastal Plain and contain a diverse mixture of land cover types that range from coastal marshes to upland oak hammocks and scrub areas, with the St. Johns River being the dominant natural resource. The region’s diverse network of natural resources provides economic, environmental, habitat, recreational, and aesthetic benefits to the residents and visitors of our northeast Florida region.

The Council has always seen itself as a steward of and a strong advocate for the protection of the Region’s natural resources so that they continue to satisfy both human and ecosystem needs. The natural resources of the region are constantly at the forefront of all our planning related activities. These activities include environmental review of permits and grant applications, as well as review of projects received from the State Clearinghouse. Environmental impact is also addressed when the Council reviews Developments of Regional Impact and amendments to local government comprehensive plans