As part of the broader Plan Bay Area Implementation effort, ABAG staff worked with local jurisdictions, the ABAG administrative committee and stakeholders to develop a Priority Conservation Areas (PCA) program update. Adopted July 17, 2014, this update specifically addresses the Open Space and Farmland implementation areas and introduces four categories to recognize the role of different kinds of PCAs in supporting the vitality of the region's natural systems, rural economy and human health.
All new and modified PCAs must apply or re-apply. The revised guidelines for new PCA nominations, review and adoption, and confirming existing PCAs are summarized below.
Updated PCA Application Process and Requirements
The application requires that new PCA nominations include:
1. An adopted resolution of support from the jurisdiction(s) in which it is located
2. A map and text describing the general area and boundaries of the PCA
3. Selection of one or more of the PCA designations described below and text and supporting text and data
4. Discussion of the regional and local importance of the PCA
Sponsors of proposed PCAs are required to complete the applications by May 30, 2015. For more information, go to http://abag.ca.gov/vision/conservation/.