We oppose the reduced wetland buffer policy for Nassau County's Comprehensive Land Management Plan for the following reasons:

This proposed reduction in buffer distance between development and wetlands and water bodies isn't supported by adequate data and analysis demonstrating that the proposed vegetation buffer will adequately protect wetlands and the natural functions of wetlands. Furthermore, the data and analysis do not demonstrate how the comprehensive plan is directing incompatible future land uses away from the wetlands.

Because the proposed wetlands buffer requirement is not supported by adequate data and analysis it is not consistent with Rule 9J-5.005(2), F.A.C. Without supporting data and analysis, these proposed polices do not comply with Rule 9J-5.013(3), F.A.C. which requires the protection and conservation of wetlands and the natural functions of wetlands. Nor are the proposed policies compatible with the State Comprehensive Plan -- in particular the policies under the Natural Systems and Recreational Land Goal.