[From the U.S. Government Printing Office, www.gpo.gov]


                                                                                                            FINAL PRODUCT               FY'94 Task 57
                                                                                                            Lancaster County Environmental Plenner/Ordinance Dv1pront

                                                              (Public and Private Access
                                                     to Waterfront Areas Study and Plan

                                                                       Lancaster County, VA
                                                                                March, 1995



















                                                                               Prepared By:
                                                      Patrick G. Frere, Environmental Planner
                                                Lancaster County Planning and Land Use Office





                                                                                     /44
                                                                                      6.._



                                       Ibis Comprehensive Plan was funded, in part, by the Department of Environmental Qualitys Coastal Resources
                                  Management Program through Grant #NA47OZO287-01 ofthe National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Office
                                   of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, under the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended. 71be views
                                     expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of NOAA or any of its subagencies.

                                           Comprehensive Plan was fim" in part, by a grant from the Chesapeake Bay Local Assistance Department,
                                                                              Commonwealth of Virginia










                                                                    Table of Contents



                   Introduction       .................................................................................        ..............I


                   1.       Public and Private Access to Waterfront Areas Study                          ................................... 2

                            A. Existing Conditions                 .....................................................................     4

                                      1. Shoreline Land Ownership                     ...................................................    4

                                      2. Shoreline Land Uses                 ............................................................    5


                                               a. Residential Shoreline Uses                  ............................................   5

                                               b. Commercial Uses                   ....................................................     6


                                               c. Industrial Uses           ............................................................     7


                                               d. Public/Recreational Uses                    ...........................................    7


                                      3. Population                .....................................................................     7

                                      4. Water Quality            ................................................................... .      8

                                               a. Nonpoint Source Pollution                   ..........................................     8

                                               b. Condemned Shellfish Grounds                 ..........................................     10


                                      5. Marine Resources                   ...........................................................      10

                                               a- Submerged Aquatic Vegetation                ..........................................     10

                                               b. Wetlands        ....................................................................       11


                                               c. Shellfish Grounds                  ..................................................      11


                                      6. Existing Access          .....................................................................      12

                                               a. Private Access            ............................................................     12


                                               b. Private Access and Pier Densities                     ..................................   12
                                               c. Public Access, ".n         ..........................................................      12








                           B. Assessment of Existing Conditions                       ..................................................... 13

                                     Assets             .............................................................................       14


                                     Problems           ..............................................................................      14


                           C. Determining Additional Need for Access                            ........................................... 15

                           Goals and Objectives                    ....................................................................     17



                           Public and Private Access to Waterfront Areas Plan                            .................................. 19


                           A. Target Areas              .............................................................................       19

                           B. General Site Considerations and Access Needs                               .................................. 20


                                     1. Types of Access and Site Considerations                          .................................. 20

                           C. Recommendations                     ...................................................................       24


                           D. Implementation            ............................................................................        28

                                     1. Local Effi)rts            ....................................................................      28

                                     2. Outside Technical Assistance                ...................................................     29


                                     3. Outside Funding Sources                     ...................................................     29



                           Cited Sources


                           Appendix



                                                                     Table of Maps

                                     Map 1:             Study Area Reference Map
                                     Map 2:             Lancaster County Stream Network
                                     Map 3:             Population Density in Lancaster County
                                     Map 4:             State Hydrologic Units in Lancaster County
                                     Map 5:             Existing Public Access Sites in Lancaster County
                                     Map 6:             Public Access Target Areas










                                                       List of Tables


                             Table 1:      Shoreline Land Use Classification, 1994
                             Table 2:      Shoreline Land Use Classification, 1978
                             Table 3:      Seasonal Housing Units, 1970-1990
                             Table 4:      Boating Facilities Inventory
                             Table 5:      Survey of Public Access
                             Table 6:      VMRC Siting Criteria Check List












              INTRODUCTION



                     in 1988 the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act (CBPA) was passed into law in Virginia.
              The purpose of the CBPA is to protect and improve the water quality of the Chesapeake Bay,
              its tributaries, and other state waters by minimizing the effects of human activity upon these
              waters. The CBPA is designed to protect certain lands which if improperly used or developed
              may result in substantial damage to the water quality of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries.
              The CBPA resulted in the creation of the Chesapeake Bay Local Assistance Board, which was
              charged with developing regulations which establish criteria that will provide for the protection
              of water quality, and that also will accommodate economic development. The Chempeake Bay
              Preservation Area Desiznation and Management Regulations were developed and became final
              in November, 1990. These regulations have become the Tidewater Counties' guide in
              developing their own required local programs.


                     The Final Regulation (VR 173-02-01) Part V, ImIllementation. Assistance, and
              Determination of Consistency, details what is required of localities in carrying out the
              Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act. One requirement placed on the localities is that their
              Comprehensive Land Use Plan complies with the CBPA. The CBPA regulations state that the
              comprehensive plan, or plan component, should consist of the following basic elements: (i) a
              summary of data collection and analysis; (ii) a policy discussion; (Hi) a land use plan map;
              (iv)implementing measures, including specific objectives and a time frame for accomplishment.


                     As part of the comprehensive plan element of the CBPA regulations, localities must
              address policies on a number of water quality issues. These issues include physical constraints
              to development, protection of potable water supply, relationship of land use to commercial and
              recreational fisheries, appropriate densities for docks and piers, and the provision of public and
              private access to waterfront areas and the effect on water quality.


                              il
                     Lancaster 6unty is currently in the process of revising the adopted Lancaster County
              Comprehensive Land Use Plan (1992). The revisions will address the water quality issues listed
              in the regulations, and are designed to fulfill the County's requirements under the Chesapeake
              Bay Preservation Act.










                                                                                                                  2

                       Public and Private Access to Waterfront Areas Study
                       According to the Chesapeake Bay Act Regulations, local governments should prepare
               policy statements for inclusion in the plan on the following issues: relationship of land use to
               commercial and recreational fisheries; appropriate density for docks and piers; public and private
               access to waterfront areas and effect on water quality. Lancaster County will not only address
               these issues, but will tailor its plan to meet the special needs and concerns within our county.
               These include the needs expressed in the Lancaster County Comprehensive Plan for expanded
               access opportunities and appropriate pier densities; as well as the need for increased access for
               our commercial and recreational fishing industries.

                       Chesapeake Bay Act Regulations regarding public and private access to the water
               encourage localities to maximize human access to the water, while minimizing the impact on the
               environment. The Regulations recognize there are many groups competing for access to the
               water, but only a limited amount of shoreline. Waterfront homeowners, commercial fishermen,
               seafood industry owners, commercial business owners, and recreational users all require access
               to the water. These same users have the ability to negatively impact the water to which they are
               attracted.


                      The Regulations recognize that human access to the water can have many negative impacts
               on the environment. Construction of boat ramps and piers can result in the disrupting of
               wetlands, the clearing of shoreline vegetation, and in an altering of the existing shoreline.
               Dredging required to maintain access to navigable channels can result in the stirring up of
               pollutants settled on the water bottom, as well as loss of submerged aquatic vegetation.. Boat
               wake may result in an increase in shoreline erosion. Lastly, boating activity can result in water
               pollution from toxic hull paints, engine fluids, and improperly disposed of human waste (Page
               VI-80 Local Agistance Manual., Chesapeake Bay Local Assistance Department; Richmond, VA:
               November, 1989). The Regulations encourage localities to find ways to minimize these resulting
               impacts of human access to the water.

                      The goal of the Lancaster County Public and Private Access to Waterfront Areas
               Study and Plan will be to present alternatives which can satisfy access demands within our
               County, while assining continued protection of our unique waterfront environment. The Study
               will first inventory the existing shoreline situation in Lancaster County. Secondly, trends in
               shoreline land uses will be evaluated. Thirdly, existing access opportunities will be inventoried.
               Fourth, demand for access will be determined, and lastly additional need for access in Lancaster
               County will be discussed. The Plan will then draw on the study to determine feasible
               recommendations concerning public and private access to waterfront areas in Lancaster County.










                                                                                                          3

                                   DATA SOURCES FOR STUDY AND PLAN

                   Many sources of data were used in developing the Public and Private Access to
           Waterfront Areas Study and Plan. Included are the Department of Health's Shoreline Sanitary
           Surveys for Lancaster County's water bodies, 1990 U.S. Census Data for the county, the
           Virginia Institute of Marine Science's 1978 Shoreline Situation R=ort for Lancaster County,
           county owned digital tax map coverages of Lancaster County from the Information Support
           System Lab at VPI&SU, and the April 1994 Lancaster CouM Shoreline Invento1y, which was
           complete by the_Northern Neck Planning District Commission.

                   Prior to the beginning of this study, Lancaster County staff members met with
           representatives from the Chesapeake Bay Local Assistance Department to discuss how the study
           would be conducted. At this time, it was agreed that the county's 1:7,200 tax maps would be
           an adequate base for the study. These same maps provided the base for the previously mentioned
           Lancaster County Shoreline Invenwa, and are also widely used by the county. There are 41
           maps in the tax map coverage of Lancaster County, and a reference map showing the location
           of each of the 41 maps is given below. Individual map numbers will be frequently referred to
           throughout this report.

                                      Map 1: Study Area Reference Map


                                                 Location Map

                                    LANCASTER COUNTY TAX MAP GRED









                                              14     15    [(A        1-7











                                               311A



                                                                                   346 37
                                            131     3a     3.3
                                              7


                                        35






















                                                                                      q1







                                                                                                                 __Y




                                                                                                          4

              &      Existing Conditions

                     Lancaster County is bordered by the Chesapeake Bay to the East and.the Rappahannock
              River to the South. Many tidal water bodies meander through the County on the way to the Bay
              and River including Lancaster Creek, the Corrotoman River, including the Western and Eastern
              Branches, Carters Creek, Indian Creek, Dymer Creek, Tabbs Creek, Antipoison Creek, as well
              as many smaller creeks. Combined these water bodies give Lancaster County 264.77 miles of
              tidal shoreline.
                               Strecrn Network                                       Leaend
                                                                                      Land
                                                                                      "Not er





                                                                                    Lanccster, %.'A

                                                                                    February, 1995









                                                                                            N


                                                                                   Created Sy:
                                                                                   Lancaster Coi-rty
                                                                                    lanring & Land Use
                                                                                   Of fiLe







                                     Map 2: Lancaster County Stream Network



              I     Shoreline Land Ownership

                    Over 97% (approx. 258 miles) of the land adjacent to tidal shoreline in Lancaster County
              is owned privately. The exceptions include Belle Isle State Park, Greenvale Creek Public Boat
              Landing, and the turn-around waterfront area at the end of Route 695.








                                                                                                  Lancim te-r CoLvity
                                                                                                Q, I      INN
                                                                                                  _jrfo:@e Yoriter Bodies
            Lanc-cs ter
            Creek                                                                                      rviqy' 1995







            Creel-,
                                     j
                  D
                  CreAk             Oies,f_-e@n
                                    '6 r 9_@'7_h


                                                                                     Indian CreF4.,
                    Greerr,e e
                                           y4r,
                    C"Feek                         'Joylof
                                         Creek                                           Dymer
                                                         k
                                                                              IT,
                                                                                              Reefs Bav
             Roppah3r inock
                                                                                             -Tr-iffis Creek
                  RI-V ef-


                                                                                              Antipol-son Creek
                           Whtehowse
                              Creek                                                           Little E;ow
                                        Corrotoman
                                                      Carter
                                            RiveF
                                                       C r e e k,
                                                                                 u i t 0       P-oppcironnoc:k-
                                                                            C r e e k          RI'V el







                                                                                                                5

                2.      Shoreline Land Uses

                        Land uses along the shoreline include private residential, agricultural, industrial,
                commercial, recreational, forest, and wetland. The April, 1994 Lancaster Copty Shoreline
                Inventory conducted by the Northern Neck Planning District Commission' detailed the following
                land uses:
                                     Table 1: Shoreline Land Use Classification, 1994
                                                      Lancaster County
                                Category                        Parcels                 Percent
                                Residential                      2,713                     69.28
                                Agriculture                       279                       7.12
                                *Seafood industry                 20                     < 1.00

                                *Cornmercial                      40                     > 1.00

                                Forest                            669                      17.08

                                Wetland                           170                       4.35

                                Public/Recreational                5                        0.13

                                Other                              2                        0.05

                                TOTAL                          3,916.00                   100.00
                                     Numbers have been approximated due to inability to distinguish between
                                     these two classifications using aerial photography.


               a. Residential Shoreline Uses
                      As evidenced in the above chart, residential land use is the dominant use along the
               shoreline in Lancaster County. The large growth in residential shoreline use in Lancaster County
               is evident when comparing present percentages to 1978 figures.

                                    Table 2: Shoreline Land Use Classification, 1978
                                                     Lancaster County

                                Residential                                        28%

                                Agricultural                                       20%

                                Commercial                                         1%

                                Industrial                                        < 1%

                                Unmanaged - Wooded                                43%
                                Unmanaged - Unwooded                               8%
                                            Total                           100% of Parcels

                      Source: Shoreline Situation Report. Lancaster County. Virginia Institute of Marine
                                Science; Gloucester Point, VA: 1978.







                                                                                                                  6

                    The growth of shoreline residential uses seen above was paralleled by a large increase in the
            construction of seasonal homes in Lancaster County. In 1970, seasonal housing units made up 4%
            of the total number of housing units in Lancaster County. By 1990, 12.5 % of the total number of
            housing units in the County were seasonal homes. This translates to a 372.447q growth in the
            number of seasonal housing units in Lancaster County from 1970 to 1990, as depicted in Table 3.
            (Distribution of seasonal housing in Lancaster County can be viewed on "Percent of Housing Units
            in Block Group which are for Seasonal Use" map in the Appendix.)


                                      Table 3: Seasonal Housing Units, 1970-1990
                                                     Lancaster County


                                                                                            % Change
                                                               1970           1990         1970-1990

                     Seasonal Housing Units                     156           737           372.44%
                     Total Housing Units                       3,940         5,918           50.2%


                    Source: 1970 and 1990 United States Census Data.



                    The growth in residential shoreline use is important because it reflects the demand found for
            access to the water. Waterfront locations are valued as desirable sites for home building, due in
            part to the unavailable water access for non-waterfront residential areas. Additionally, growth in
            the number of seasonal residences on the water is further significant because it can result in
            degradation of water quality. First, the initial clearing of a building lot, followed by the actual
            construction of a new home can lead to increased run-off of sediment into state waters. Second,
            new waterfront residences allow more opportunity for increased recreational use of state waters, as
            well as more opportunity for development of individual boat access and mooring structures. The
            cumulative effect of lot clearing, home construction, increased recreational use of water, and
            additional development of individual water access can result in worsened water quality.

                   The growing use of shoreline for residential purposes is further important because as more
            land is devoted to residences, less land is available for other uses. Residential land generally
            provides access only to the owners of the property. This is not the case with other types of land
            uses such as commercial marinas, which satisfy much water access demand with a single parcel.
            Therefore tax maps with high percentages of residential shoreline uses are considered priorities in
            targeting potential access opportunities. Tax maps in Lancaster County which have a higher than
            average percentage of residential shoreline use include maps 4, 11, 12, 19, 20, 22, 26, 27, 29, 30,
            31, 33, 34, 35, and 39.



            b. Commercial Uses
                   Shoreline commercial uses in Lancaster County include marine resorts, inns, restaurants,
            boat repair facilities, and marinas. These uses contribute greatly to the county's economic vitality.
            Many tourists, seasonal home owners, and recreational water users are drawn to the these areas
            because of the access opportunities and services that are provided here. Access in commercial areas
            carp-range from views of the water while dining, to the rental of a boat for a day of sailing.











                                                                                                                   7

               Overall, commercial shoreline uses are necessary in order to satisfy a large amount of the public
               demand for access to the water.


                       Shoreline commercial uses can also have an impact on the environment. These uses generate
               increased amounts of boating activity, as well as providing areas for long-term boat mooring. The
               cumulative affect of intense boating activity and boat mooring can result in decreased water quality
               and condemnation of shellfish grounds in the vicinity of the boating operation. Therefore, new
               shoreline commercial uses should not be located in areas with viable shellfish beds and other
               sensitive resources.



               c. IndustriW Uses
                       Industrial shoreline uses are mainly comprised of seafood processing businesses, with the
               exception of one grain loading facility on Indian Creek. The seafood industry has traditionally
               been a strong component of Lancaster's economy. However, during the period from 1984 to 1994
               the seafood industry has seen a decline in Lancaster County due to decreases in marketable oyster
               and fish populations, and some industry sites have since become inactive. Despite the overall
               decline of the seafood industry, active sites are still an important source of employment, as well
               as place of access for commercial watermen. Additionally seafood industry sites, active and
               inactive, stand as reminders of the important role the water plays, and will continue to play in the
               development of Lancaster County.


               d. Publig/Recreational Uses
                      Recreational shoreline uses are valuable because they provide access to the water for the
               general public. Recreational shoreline users include visitors to the area, recreational boaters, and
               residents of the county who have no other access options. In Lancaster County there are few
               public recreational shoreline uses. Boating access is provided by the County and the Department
               of Game and Inland Fisheries at the Greenvale Creek Public Boat Landing. Additionally, nature
               trails and observation are available at Belle Isle State Park and the Chesapeake Corporation Nature
               Trail. Furthermore, when Belle Isle State Park is fully developed, boating, swimming, and fishing
               access will be provided. However, there are currently no public swimming areas or fishing piers
               in Lancaster County-



               3.     Population

                      According to the 1990 U.S. Census, Lancaster County had 10,896 residents. The
               population in Lancaster County is greatest in the part of the county east of the Corrotoman River
               near the three towns of Kilmarnock, White Stone, and Irvington. Population densities in this part
               of the county range from 50 - 249 people per square mile. This is in contrast to the more sparsely
               populated western part of the county which has population densities ranging from 0 - 49 people
               per square mile.









                                                                                                                8

                                    Map 3: Population Density in Lancaster County


                                                                                          LEGEND
                                                                                          0 - 49
                                                                                       50 -  99
                                                                                        100 -  149
                                                                                        150.   g
                                                                                      200-  249
                                                                                        wATer
                                              ..... . ....
                                                                                       LANCASTER COUNTY(


                                                                                       POPULATION DENSITY
                                                                                     People per Square Mile









                                                                                     Prepared By:
                                                                                     Lancaster County
                                                                                     Planning & Land Use
                                                                                     OfFice
                                                                                     March, 1995
                                                                                     Source;1990 U.S.Census
                                                                                           Block Group Data








            4.      Water Quality

                    Quality of surface waters is of vital importance to the Lancaster County community. First,
            many commercial fishermen, seafood industry owners, marina owners, and related employees
            depend on local waters for their livelihood. Second, citizens of the county enjoy living in a rural
            scenic setting which is enhanced by views of, and access, to the water. Lastly, the water is a
            source of recreation for many in the Lancaster County community, as well as for many visitors
            to the area.



            a.      Nonpoint Source Pollution

                    One measure of the water quality of Lancaster County's surface water is found in the
            Virginia Non point Source Pollution Watershed Assessment Repo                  (VA Department of
            Conservation and Recreation; March, 1993). This report divides the       State of Virginia into 491
            different watersheds or hydrologic units. A watershed is defined as "a land area drained by a
            river/stream or system of connecting rivers and streams such that all water within the area flows
            through a single outlet". There are three state hydrologic units in Lancaster County: EOI, E02,
            and C16. EOI and E02 are part of the Rappahannock River Basin and C16 is part of the
            Chesapeake Bay Coastal Basin. This report compares water quality of hydrologic units throughout
            the state in order to prioritize nonpoint source pollution protection efforts.







                                                                                                                  9

                                    Map 4: State Hydrologic Units in Lancaster County
                                                                                             5'--ALE 1   1866,10
                                                                                               LEGEND
                                                                                               E01
                                                                                               EOn

                                                                                             S t at
                                E02                                                          Hydrologic
                                                                                             Units
                                                       EO I
                                                                                             Lanccster Cot-nty, vt,







                                                                                             Creoted By-

                                                                                             Lancrmter Coi-rky
                                                                                             Flunring a-, Land Use
                                                                                             Gf fice


                                                                            - -----          April, 1995





               A brief summary of watersheds in Lancaster County is given below:

                      EOI - This watershed is cited as having "significant levels of urban use impacts due to
                      urban erosion and nutrient loadings, and the amount of disturbed urban land" (Pg. 138).
                      However, this watershed is not described as having any significant water quality violations
                      for fecal coliforms or pH levels. Statewide this watershed is given a final nonpoint source
                      pollution rank of "MEDIUM -", with a rank of "High+" being the highest priority
                      watersheds for state nonpoint source pollution protection efforts.

                      E02 - This watershed is not described as having any significant water quality violations
                      due to fecal coliforms or pH level. Additionally, this watershed is not cited for having
                      11sigaificant levels of urban use impacts". Statewide this watershed is given a final
                      nonpoint source pollution rank of " MEDIUM - ", with a rank of " High + " being the highest
                      priority watersheds for state nonpoint source pollution protection efforts.

                      C16 - This watershed is rated as a "medium priority watershed for agricultural nonpoint
                      source pollution concerns. Due primarily to existing development, watershed C16 is rated
                      in the top 10% statewide for urban pollution potential." Additionally, the water shed is
                      cited as having a large number of shellfish condemnations because of "urban nonpomit,
                      source influences". However, the watershed was not cited for having any significant
                      violations of state water quality standards. Statewide this watershed is given a final








                                                                                                               10

                     nonpoint source pollution rank of " High + ", with a rank of " High + " being the highest
                     priority watersheds for state nonpoint source pollution protection efforts.




              b .    Condemned Shellfish Grounds


                      Another indicator of surface water quality is the location of condemned and seasonally
              condemned shellfish grounds. As of 1988, Lancaster County had 1,372 acres of condemned
              shellfish grounds (Pg. 84, Lancaster Coun1y Shoreline Management Study Preliminau Results,
              1988). Typically shellfish condemnation areas in Lancaster County are found only in small
              portions of creeks, not throughout the entire creek. Exceptions are Carter Creek, Greenvale
              Creek, - Paynes Creek, Beach Creek, Lancaster Creek, and Mulberry Creek, which are all mostly,
              or totally, designated as condemned or seasonally condemned. A complete listing of Lancaster
              County shellfish condemnations can be seen in the Appendix.

                 Locations of shellfish condemnations are important water quality indicators because the waters
              have been condemned due to elevated levels of fecal coliform bacteria. High levels of fecal
              coliform bacteria can be due to animal (domestic and wild) waste, failing septic systems, marinas,
              or the flushing characteristics of the particular water body.





              5-     Marine Resources


                     Lancaster County is fortunate to benefit from an abundance of marine resources. These
              natural resources include Submerged Aquatic Vegetation, Wetlands, and Shellfish Grounds.
              Descriptions of these features, their functions in the man-made and natural environments, and the
              extent of their presence in Lancaster County are given below.


              a.     Submerged Aquatic Vegetation

                     Submerged Aquatic Vegetation(SAV), or seagrass, is a valuable natural marine resource
              which  is found adjacent to the shoreline in many parts of Lancaster County. SAV is important
              because it provides ideal habitat for blue crabs and juvenile finfish. SAV also acts to provide
              protection for molting crabs and is a source of food for some waterfowl. Lastly, as evidenced by
              the important role it plays in the marine environment, SAV is also of great value to the County's
              commercial and recreational fisheries.


                     According to the 1993 Distribution of Submerged Aquatic Vegetation in the Chesapeake
              Bay (Virginia Institute of Marine Science, School of Marine Science; The College of William and
              Mary), SAV bed in Lancaster County are found in the Corrotoman River, along the north shore
              of the Rappahannock River from the Corrotornan River to Windmill Point; as well as in Dymer
              Creek, Indian Creek, Little Bay, and Fleets Bay. Furthermore, this report notes that SAV beds
              have declined in the area of the Rappahannock River between Carters Creek and the mouth of the








               Corrotoman River. However, SAV has also slowly expanded in some areas of Lancaster County.
               One large bed near Windmill Point is cited as having grown from 28 hectares in 1992, to 44
               hectares in 1993. (Specific distribution of SAV in the lower part of Lancaster County can be seen
               in the "Submerged Aquatic Vegetation, 1993 Irvington, Fleets Bay, Wilton, and Deltaville, VA
               Quadrangles" map in the Appendix.)


               b.     Wedand


                      Wetlands are defined by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service as "lands transitional
               between terrestrial and aquatic systems where the water table is usually at or near the surface or
               the land is covered by shallow water" (Pg. 4, Atlas of Natignal Wetlands Inventory Maps of
               Chesapeake Bay. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services; September, 1986.). Generally, wetlands can
               be classified as either tidal or non-tidal. Locally, Lancaster County has approximately 4,504 acres
               of tidal wetlands and 1,349.26 acres of non-tidal wetlands (Figures were obtained using the
               Lancaster County Geographic Information System utilizing a digital National Wetland Inventory
               map layer). (Distribution of tidal and non-tidal wetlands in Lancaster County can be viewed on
               the "Tidal and Non-tidal Wetlands" map in the Appendix.)

                      Wetlands are important natural resources which provide many positive benefits to the man-
               made and natural environments. Wetlands provide aesthetic, recreational, and economic benefits
               to the community. Furthermore, wetlands are spawning and nursery grounds for finfish and
               shellfish, feeding and wintering sites for migratory waterfowl, nesting habitat for shore birds, and
               homes to a wide variety of wildlife. Wetlands further serve as important areas for groundwater
               recharge, flood control, pollution absorption, and retention of sediment from stormwater run-off
               ( Pg 1, Atlas of National Wetlands InventoU Maps of Ches=akt_@a . U.S. Fish and Wildlife
               Services; September, 1986.).



               C.    Shellfish Grounds

                     Lancaster County has a wealth of suitable shellfish grounds in the water adjacent to its
               shores. Despite dramatic decreases in shellfish populations and catches in the last decade due to
               the diseases MSX, and Dermo, these grounds remain a valuable resource which should be
               protected. Although it can not be determined if, or when, shellfish populations will recover from
               these diseases, the possibility remains that a comeback could happen. (Distribution of shellfish
               grounds in Lancaster County are depicted on the "Shellfish Grounds" map in the Appendix.)









                                                                                                                 12

              6.      Existing Access

              a. Private Access
                      The large majority of access to the water in Lancaster County is private. Pirivate access
              includes private waterfront, boat ramps, piers, docks, boathouses, and beaches. As discussed
              in the Shoreline Land Use section, people utilizing private access to the water in Lancaster
              County include private homeowners, commercial business operations, and water dependent
              industries. (See Table 4: Boating Facilities Identified in VA Department of Health Shoreline
              Sanitary Surveys of Lancaster County, VA Waterways.)


              b. Private Access and Pier Densities
                      Private access to the water satisfies a large part of the access demand within Lancaster
              County. However, impacts of private access to the water can clearly be seen in the results of
              the April 1994, Lancaster County Shoreline Inventory. The inventory shows there are 1,635
              piers in the waters of Lancaster County. When compared to the total number of waterfront
              parcels, approximately 45% of parcels have their own piers. Densities of piers vary widely
              within the county. Tax maps which have a higher than average percentage of piers include maps
              20, 22, 26, 27, 29, 33, 34, 35, 39, and 41.

                      The majority of these piers are located at residential parcels along the shoreline. Access
              provided by these private residences is often of low-intensity, but not without impacts on the
              environment. In areas of the county where pier densities are greatest, almost every parcel has
              its own pier. These piers are often used for long-term boat mooring, not just for day use of
              boats. The cumulative effect of high pier densities and long-term boat mooring can result in
              decreased water quality within that body of water. This is situation which is expected to
              intensify in coming years, as undeveloped residential lots are developed and new piers built.


              c. Public Access
                      Presently there is limited public access to the water in Lancaster County. Two of the
              existing public access sites are publicly owned, and the third is privately owned. The first is the
              public boat landing located on the western side of the County at Greenvale Creek. This boat
              landing is a day @se facility with an in-out ramp and a boarding dock. Additional publicly
              owned access is available at Belle Isle State Park, which is also located in the western half of the
              County. However, access opportunities at Belle Isle are limited until the park is further
              developed. Development of the park is contingent on availability of funds from the state.
              Lastly, privately owned public access is found at the Chesapeake Corporation Nature Trail,
              adjacent to Route 3 and alongside the Western Branch of the Corrotoman River. Existing public
              access sites can be located on tax maps 12, 15, and 19.

                      Public Access can be beneficial in that usually an in-out ramp and parking are the only
              services provided boaters. The lack of long-term mooring encourages the use of these facilities
              by recreational boaters, who put boats in the water and take them out in the same day. This
              helps to minimize the negative impacts on the water from boating.










                                                  Table 4: Boating Facilities Identified in Virginia Department of Health
                                                           Shoreline Sanitary Surveys of Lancaster Co., Va Waterways
                                                                (Tax Parcel and land owner Information from Lancaster County's Land Use Tracking System)

                                                                                                     Dry          Total
          Facility                                                           M"        Moorings Storage Capacity Ra=                 Private     Qibff                  Body of Wate         Tax Map Parcels
          Indian Creek Yacht & Country Club                                                                       17                    Y                               Indian Creek
          W.O. Snelling                                                                                           11                    Y                               Indian Creek
          Chesapeake Boat Basin                                                                                   49                    Y                               Indian Creek         29 & 29A 29-9. 29A -1- 2, 29A -1- 3
          Blue Water Pt. Homeowners Assoc.                                                                        9                     Y                                                         29            558
          R. & R. Ltd. (Slankenbroker)                                         9                                  9                     Y     Community Pier                                      29      55D & 55R
          F.H. Ajootlan (Ocran Boat Shop)                                      5                                  5                     Y     Railway, Boat Repair                                35            61C
          Wineger's Marine Railway (Cathy Davenport)                           I I                                I I                   Y     Railway, Fish Plant
          Windmill Point Marine Resort                                         71                                 71         Y          Y
          Mr. Ferguson, Rt. 895 (Community Landing for Watermen)                          6                       6                     Y                               Windmill Creek            34            319A
          The Anchorade (Buster Fellester)                                                                        8                     Y     100'Pler                  Mosquito Creek
          Hoffman Harbor (R.W. Hoffman)                                                                           26                    Y     Railway, Pier             Mosquito Creek            35      216D & 235
          Cully's Marine Railway/Marina (Edward Cullingsworth)                 17                                 17                    Y     Dockside Mooring          Antipoison Creek          35            226A
          Charles Marchetti      ,                                             13         3                       16                    Y                               Antipalson Creek          36            1 & 2
          Bay Seafood (Meredith Robbins)                                                  6                       6                     Y                               Antipoison Creek
          Fitchett's Landing (William Fitchett)                                           10                      10                    Y                               Antipoison Creek          35         283 & 264
          Camp Little Bay (Genevieve Downs)                                               8                       8          Y          Y     Campground                Little Bay                36      26, 26A, 28, 32, 33,
          Nancy Robison                                                                                           8                     Y     Private Dock              Carter Creek
          Walter & Helen Babb                                                                                     7                     Y                               Carter Creek              33      483H & 484B
          Ann Gray Turner Wood                                                                                    6                     Y     Private Dock              Carter Creek              33      482E & 482F
          J.E. Koogan                                                          2          6                       8                     Y                               Carter Creek
          Chandler Luckham                                                                                        10                    Y     Private Yacht Club        Carter Creek
          Frank McGinnis                                                                                          14         Y          Y     Commercial Dock           Carter Creek              34      110G, 10H. 101, 10J, 10K. 10L,
          Rappahannock Yacht, Inc.                                                                                6                     Y     Private Yacht Club        Carter Creek
          Rappahannock River Yacht Club (Private Yacht Club)                                                      54         Y          Y     Slips/Dry Storage         Carter Creek              33      257 &258
          Rappahannock Yacht & Marine (Commercial Marina)                      40                    70           110                   Y                               Carter Creek
          Marion Reynolds                                                                 6                       6                     Y     Private Pier              Carter Creek
          Irvington Marine (A.W. Wylie)                                                              25           73                    Y     SlipsiMrgs./Dry Stor.     Carter Creek              33      254 & 254A
          Southern Chesapeake Yachts                                                                              28                    Y                               Carter Creek
          Tides Inn Marina (R.L. Stevens)                                                                         22                    Y                               Carter Creek
          Tides Lodge (E.B. Stevens                                                                               41                    Y                               Carter Creek
          Gerald & Mrs. Walter Abbott                                                                             8                     Y     Marine Private Dock       Carter Creek              28            JeOD
          Carter Cove Boat Haven                                               14                                 14                    Y     Covered Slips             Carter Creek

                                                                                        December, 1994 - Lancaster County Planning and Land Use Office











                                              Table 4: Boating Facilities Identified in Virginia Department of Health
                                                        Shoreline Sanitary Surveys of Lancaster Co., Va Waterways
                                                            (Tax Parcelland land owner Information from Lancaster County's Land Use Tracking System)

                                                                                               Dry           Total
         Facilit                                                        Bum      Mooring     Storage Czaacb Ram              Private     Q1hX                 Body of Water        Tax Map     Parcel
         Dixie Co.                                                                                           12                 Y     Pier/Moorings           Carter Creek           33 & 35   33-641, 3S-61
         Sunset Cove Marina                                                                                  21                 Y     SlipslMoorings          Carter Creek
         F.H. Daniel Cooke,                                               a          3                       11                 Y     Private Pier            Carter Creek
         Rose Bros. Landing                                                                                  8                  Y                             Carter Creek
         Yeomac, Inc.                                                                                        4                  Y                             Corrotoman River         27             51
         Quarters Cove Property Assoc.                                                                       3        Y         Y                             Corrotoman River         22C            1-35
         Laurel Point Properties Assoc.                                                                      8        Y         Y     Pier                    Corrotoman River     22 & 22A 7. 9A, 9C, 22A-1-29A
         Huntons Homeowner's Assoc.                                                                                             Y     Proposed Marina Site    Corrotoman River      20 & 20H 35A, 35B, 36, 20H-18
         Corrotoman-by-the-Bay                                                                               12       Y         Y     Neighborhood Facility   Corrotoman River
         Heritage Point Homeowner's Assoc.                               10          5                       15       Y         Y     Neighborhood Facility   Corrotomen River     Inserts 208 & 20E
         Yankee Pt. Sailboat Marina (John McConnico)                                                         118      Y         Y     Ramp&Hoist              Corrotoman River         26      16, 18, & 181
         Myers Landing Community Assoc.                                                                      5                  Y     Neighborhood Facility   Corrotoman River         25          25E-1-21
         Whitehouse Crk. Estates Homeowner's Assoc.                                                          I        Y         Y     Neighborhood Facility   Corrotoman River         31D     2-51, 3-1 A, 1-4, 3-2
         Watson's Lading Pier (Bertrand Waterman's Assoc.)               I I                                 I I                Y                             Corrotoman River
         Tom Stevens, Marine (Betty Colgin)                                          8                       8        Y         Y                             Corrotoman River         20D          3-269
         Salt Aire Homeowners Assoc.                                                                         5        Y         Y                                                      25D     1-45, 69. & 70
         Greenvale Creek Public Boat Landing                                                                 2        Y         N                             Greenvale Creek
         Greenvale Creek Marina (Commercial Marina, Brandt Eudy)                               20            71       Y         Y     Sfips/Moorings          Greenvale Creek
         E.J. Conrad & Sons (Also listed under seafood industries)       1(L         1L                      2J-      y         y                             Rappahannock River

                                                          TOTALS         233         72        115           1,034    16        50













                                                                                  December, 1994 - Lancaster County Planning and Land Use Office




                          Existing       P u b I i CAccess         '-S i t e:- s        Lancaster CoLnty, VA
                                                                                               uary,
                                                                                            F,-br    199-9


                                                                                           Land                   13
                                                         V            Chesapeake Corp-     Wat er
                                                                      Nature Trofl
                            1.... 7,
                                                                  4
                                                ly
                        Belle 1--le',
                        State Park,





                            Greenvale
                            Creek





                                                                                        Prepared BY:
                                                                                         ancoster Co@_nty
                                                                                        Plonring L-k Land Use
                                                                                        Of fir)-_



                                Map 5: Existing Public Access Sites in Lancaster County


                      Assessment of Existing Condition

                      In assessing the existing conditions in Lancaster County it is noticed that the county is in
              a period of great transition. Traditional industries, such as seafood, which used to be the major
              employers in Lancaster County are on the decline. Land uses along the shoreline have changed
              greatly in the last 16 years, with residential use rising from 28% to 70% of the uses on the
              waterfront. The number of seasonal homes in the county has risen 372% from 1970 to 1990,
              and now make up over 12% of the county's entire housing stock. The population of retired
              people has grown, and Lancaster County has become more of a destination for tourists.

                      In determining the adequacy of existing access to the water in Lancaster County it is
              evident that the supply of access is also in transition. Presently, a large amount of demand for
              access to water is met through ownership of private residences, the patronizing of commercial
              shoreline operations, and through access at existing seafood industries. However, access is
              limited for non-waterfront residents, and the rest of the general public (visitors). These people
              can dine near the water, charter fishing boats, or keep their own boat at a marina, but their
              options are limited by a lack of variety and financial constraints. Currently, there are no public
              places to go swimming or fishing from a pier in Lancaster County. Furthermore, there is one
              public boating access site, but it is located away from the majority of the population in the
              county. Lastly, future opportunities to expand the variety and number of public access sites in
              Lancaster County could be jeopardized by the expanding use of shoreline for residential
              purposes.

                      The continued decline of the seafood industry, and growth of residential shoreline use
              could result in a homogenous shoreline with limited access opportunities for commercial
              fishermen, recreational fishermen, tourists, and non-waterfront residents. During the period










                                                                                                                 14

              from 1984 to 1994 the number of larger seafood processors in Lancaster County declined from
              17 to 12. As these industrial sites become inactive, the surrounding properties become more
              attractive for residential purposes. As residential shoreline uses increase other users of the water
              are left with less access options.

                      Loss of access opportunities in Lancaster County could also limit viable options for the
              seafood industry. Although the decline in shellfish and finfish might have harmU effects on
              resources needed to sustain a seafood processing company, the supply could possibly be enough
              to support small scale commercial fishing operations and markets. Additionally, the remaining
              supply could definitely support a thriving recreational fishing market in Lancaster County. Re-
              use of inactive seafood industry sites could assure that these unique landmarks on the county's
              waterfront remain.






              ASSETS
                      A large number of County residents currently have access to the water through private
                      land ownership.

                      There are numerous commercial marinas in the county which provide access opportunities
                      for many boaters.

                      The Greenvale Creek Public Boat Ramp and Belle Isle State Park provide public access
                      opportunities to the water for the non-waterfront residents of the county.

                      There are a number of unused industrial sites on the water which could be revived by re-
                      using them for public access, through creation of public/private partnerships.

                      There are opportunities for creating public access on privately owned lands through use
                      agreements.





              PROBLEMS
                      Currently there is limited public access to the water in Lancaster County.

                      Existing public access options provide little variety in access choices (no swimming or
                      pier fishing).

                      As more land is used for private residential use, less land is available for commercial
                      fisheries access, and potential public access locations.









                                                                                                                15

                        Determinin-Additional Need for Access

                        The Virginia State Outdoor Plan of 1989 describes access to tidal water in_Virginia as
                being inadequate or insufficient due to the amount of land in private ownership. The need for
                expanded access to tidal waters was further documented in the 1990 Chesapeake Bay Area Public
                Access Plan. In developing this plan aerial surveys, public boat ramp surveys, and commercial
                marina surveys were conducted to measure existing demand and additional need of access. This
                plan made several recommendations concerning public access in Lancaster County.

                       First, the plan states that additional access is needed to the Rappahannock and Corrotoman
                Rivers. Second, the plan recommends that additional access sites should be considered in the
                western half of the county. Third, the plan encourages that access sites in the portion of the
                county east of the Route 3 (Norris) Bridge be considered. Lastly, the plan cites the Fleets Bay
                and Indian Creek areas of the county as having many protected sites. These sites would offer
                direct access to the Chesapeake Bay. The plan recommends that undeveloped publicly owned
                sites should receive attention for evaluation and development.

                       To figure how much additional public access should be provided in Lancaster County,
                an inventory of public access sites in 12 other Virginia counties comprising the Northern Neck,
                Middle Peninsula, and the Eastern Shore was completed. The results of the inventory give
                insight into how much public access to the water is found in other Tidewater Counties.

                                           Table 5: Survey of Public Access in
                                              Tidewater Counties of Virginia's
                                  Northern Neck, Middle Peninsula, and Eastem Shore

                                      # of      Total                                   Total         Shoreline
                                      Boat         of                                 Shoreline    Miles Per
                      County         Ramps       Sites     Rank       Population        Miles      Access Site
                 Accoma                  8         12        3           31,703         489.8         40.82

                 Essex                   2         3         11          8,689          159.3         53.10

                 Gloucester              6         12        3           30,131         296.4         24.70
                 King George             1         5         8           13,527         131.3         26.26
                 King and Queen          3         4         10          6,289          83.3          20.83
                 King William            3         3         11          10,913         118.5         39.50
                 *Lancaster              1         2         13          10,896         276.9         138.45

                 Mathews                 2         11        5           8,348          214.5         19.50

                 Middlesex               5         10        6           8,653          186.5         18.65

                 Northampton             5         15        1           13,061         455.1         30.34
                 Northumberland          7         14                    10,524         438.4         31.31









                                                                                                               16


                Richmond                3         5          8          7,273           141.9         28.38

                Westmoreland           5          7          7          15,480          252.9         36.13
                          otal         51    1 103                     175,487     1 3,244.80
                       Average        3.92   1 7.92                   13,490.00 1 249.60             31.50

              Sources:       Chesapeake Bay Area Public Access Plan. Chesapeake Executive Council (States
                             of Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia): December,
                             1990.


                             Shoreline Situation ftorts. Virginia Institute of Marine Science, Gloucester
                             Point: 1970's (Shoreline Situation Reports for each of the 13 counties were
                             utilized. They were A completed by VIMS, but in different years.)

                             Lancaster sites include publicly owned access sites. They are the Greenvale Creek
                             Public Boat Ramp and Belle Isle State Park. Lancaster Shoreline Mileage figure
                             comes from 1978 Shoreline Situation Report for Lancaster County (VIMS). This
                             figure differs slightly from the 1994 Shoreline Inventory of Lancaster County total
                             shoreline mileage figure of 264.77 miles.



                     As demonstrated in the above chart, the average county in the surveyed area has
              approximately 4 public boat ramps and 8 total public access sites to the water. When considering
              the total amount of shoreline miles in each county, this figures to I public access site for each
              31.50 miles of shoreline. The above chart clearly demonstrates that Lancaster County has less
              than the average amount of public boat ramps, total public access sites, and access sites per mile
              of shoreline. Lancaster County would need to add 7 access sites, for a total of 9, to reach an
              average of I access site per 31.50 miles of shoreline.









                                                                                                                  17

                                                      Goals and Objectives



                Goal I
                        Provide and encourage adequate recreational access to State waters, while assuring
                        continued protection of the natural environment.

                Objective I
                        Identify potential sites and develop facilities for recreational access to State waters.

                Objective 2
                        Actively encourage community access facilities in new residential subdivisions as an
                        alternative to individual ramp and pier construction.

                Objective 3
                        Support the development of convenient public access facilities in areas of high pier
                        densities in order to give boat owners options for taking their boats out of the water when
                        not in use.



                Goal 2
                        Create public access opportunities which offer varied waterfront experiences.

                Objective I
                        Support the development of a public boat ramp site on the eastern side of the county
                        which can provide direct access to the Chesapeake Bay or the lower Rappahannock River.

                Objective 2
                        Support the development of a public fishing pier on publicly owned land in the eastern
                        half of the county.

                Objective 3
                        Encourage private owners of waterfront and other unique properties to negotiate use
                        agreements which can provide access to their lands for nature trails, observation, and
                        study.

                Objective 4
                        Support the development of a public access acquisition fund which would be used to buy
                        affordable water front lots which could be used as car top boat launching and bank
                        fishing/crabbing sites.



                Goal 3
                        Create public access sites which can enhance economic opportunities in Lancaster County.









                                                                                                     18

             Objective I
                   Actively encourage owners of vacant industrial waterfront sites to re-use these sites in a
                   way which provides access, while also creating new chances for businesses.

             Objective 2
                   Actively encourage owners of waterfront sites which currently provide access to
                   commercial fishermen, to work with the county in a public/private partnership which
                   would guarantee continued commercial, as well as public, access at these sites.

            Objective 3
                   Create public access sites in locations where they can act to generate traffic to nearby
                   businesses.








                                                                                                                   19

                 II.    Public and Private Access to Waterfront Areas Plan


                 The Lancaster County Public and Private Access Plan will present recommendations for
                 expansion of access to the water in the county, while also proposing policies @for continued
                 protection of the environment. The plan acknowledges the many obstacles- to expanded access
                 opportunities in Lancaster County including the large amount of privately owned land, the small
                 number of publicly owned waterfront parcels, and the limited amount of available state and local
                 funds. The plan will propose alternative means for providing what were once considered solely
                 public services. These alternatives include Public/Private Partnerships, Use Agreements, and
                 recreational land acquisition funds. Lastly, the plan will propose ways to enhance local
                 economic opportunities through the provision of public access to state waters. The plan will
                 look to strengthen recreational fishing access, provide options for the maintenance of commercial
                 watermen access, and propose alternatives for owners of inactive industrial sites on the waterfront.

                 The plan will first determine target areas for potential access sites, and will then discuss general
                 site considerations for different types of access. Second, specific recommendations for access
                 to the water in Lancaster County will be made. Lastly, suggestions for implementing the
                 recommendations will be presented.



                 A.    Tarzet Areas

                 Target areas for public access were developed by considering a number of factors including
                 existing shoreline uses, population densities, public access sites, and pier densities throughout
                 Lancaster County. The base unit of study used in determining target areas was the 1:7,200 scale
                 tax maps of the county. Each planning factor was mapped on the county-wide tax map grid (See
                 Appendix). Then these maps were cross-checked to determine tax maps which contained all the
                 critical attributes. The resulting target area map is below:

                                             Map 6: Public Access Target Areas
                                                         Locadon Map

                                              LANCASTER COUNTY TAX MAP GRM


                                                                 lq@ 10
                                                                          1-7 IfR is



                                                                               2.q
                                                I Lq@_I           a @j
                                                                    177 ;z
                                                              2J, FW

                                                                                    3140 3 7





                                               TARGET AREAS FOR PUBLIC ACCESS;       !










                                                                                                               20

                     Gengral Site Considerations and Access Needs

                     In determining locations for potential public access sites to the water, thefe xe general
             site criteria which should be considered for initial screening purposes. Generally, public access
             sites to the water should have state road access, a location close to population centers, and
             availability of water which is suitable for the planned use of the site. Additionally, when
             acquisition funds are limited, a parcel of land which is publicly owned is optimal. These general
             site criteria can be applied as screening tools for all types of potential public access locations.
             Additional site considerations are dependent on the intended use of the parcel of land. Types of
             access and additional site considerations are discussed below. Many of the presented site
             considerations are drawn from the Chesapeake Bay Area Public Access Technical Assistance
             R=rt (See Cited Sources).


             1. Types of Access and Site Considerations

                     Natural Area Access
                     Natural area access can be sited on small or large parcels. Smaller parcels can be utilized
                     for viewing, observation, or overlook areas adjacent to roadways. These parcels should
                     have enough room to provide parking for several cars, and should also have enough area
                     to allow users to safely enter and leave the adjacent roadway. Lastly, this type of public
                     use should be located where expansive views are offered the user. These locations would
                     include scenic views of the water or of large marsh/wetlands areas.

                     Natural area access can also be provided on large parcels of land. These parcels are best
                     suited for nature trails which provide the user active recreation while also offering
                     opportunities for nature observation and scenic views. Examples of this type of use in
                     Lancaster County include the Chesapeake Corporation Nature Trail and the County's
                     Hickory Hollow Nature Trail. Parcels which are best suited for this use would be large
                     farms, or the large tracts of woodlands owned by the timber companies.



                     Beaches dnd Swimminz Areas
                     Beaches and swimming areas are a moderately intense to intense use of land. Sites for
                     these activities should be medium to large size parcels of land, with a minimum size of
                     approximately 3 acres. In some instances adjacent land uses and specific lot configuration
                     could allow use of a smaller parcel. However, all potential sites should have sufficient
                     area for parking and support facilities.

                     Additionally, candidate sites should have ample shore frontage, preferably with an
                     existing beach. If possible the beach should be wide, sandy, and not in danger of
                     erosion. Water access at the site should be in easy walking distance from parking areas.
                     Swimming water at potential sites should be clean, have little current, no sharp drop-offs,
                     and a sandy, firm bottom. Additionally, candidate sites for beaches and swimming areas
                     should be located away from commercial waterfront areas and heavy boating traffic.









                                                                                                                  21

                        Wetlands areas should be avoided in areas planned for pedestrian traffic or water access.
                        Additionally, areas of shore where there is submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) growth
                        and threatened or endangered species present should be avoided.


                        Fishing Piers
                        Fishing piers are moderately intense uses, which can be more intense at the peaks of the
                        fishing season. Potential sites for fishing piers can either be small or large parcels of
                        land. Size is more dependent on the particular layout of a potential site. Whatever the
                        size, candidate sites should have good shore frontage. Above all, potential sites should
                        be located along a body of water which has a sufficient population of game fish.
                        Availability of fish to catch will be the deciding factor in the success of the pier.

                        Additionally, potential piers should offer no obstructions for navigable channels. Water
                        at the site should have an average depth of 2 feet at mean low water. Erosion rates at
                        the site should be under 2 feet a year, or erosion protection might be needed. Wind and
                        wave action should also be considered due to the affect they may have on long-term
                        maintenance of the facility. Environmentally, no wetlands should be disrupted, and areas
                        of submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) should be avoided. Lastly, the site should have
                        sufficient area for parking and support facilities.


                        Bank Fishing and Crabbing
                        Bank fishing and crabbing is generally a less intensive use. Potential sites should be
                        located on small or large parcels of lands. Smaller parcels would have to be configured
                        with a large shoreline area and sufficient room for parking. Access could be provided
                        on a parcel as small as a 1/3 acre, particularly if a dock is used or there is good
                        shoreline.


                        Bank fishing and crabbing areas should be on water with a good supply of fish and crabs.
                        As with piers, the success of the site will depend on the availability of fish and crabs to
                        catch. Potential sites should have an average depth of 2 feet at mean low water and
                        should be located away from commercial or industrial waterfront areas. Additionally
                        candidate sites should have low erosion rates, little wind/wave action, and offer no
                        obstruction to navigable channels. Lastly, pedestrian walkways and water access should
                        not disrupt any wetlands on the site.


                        CaEtM Boat Launching
                        Cartop boat launching is usually a less intensive use. These areas are used to provide
                        access to users of canoes, rowboats, windboards, etc. Sites are generally located on
                        smaller, more shallow bodies of water. These sites can be developed on parcels as small
                        as 1/2 acre depending on lot configuration and adjacent uses. Potential sites should have
                        sufficient area for parking, a shoreline area suitable for launching of small boats, and no
                        wetlands in the utilized area. Water at the site should be conducive to operation of small
                        boats and can have a depth as shallow as I foot at mean low water.










                                                                                                                    22

                        Marinas. Boat Ramps and Boarding -Docks
                        Boating access areas which provide ramps are generally intensely used during boating and
                        fishing season. Due to the possible impacts boating can have on the environment, it is
                        important to target suitable areas for these facilities. The Virginia Marine Resource
                        Commission's Subagueous Guidelines publication details criteria to be followed in
                        choosing potential locations for boating facilities. The criteria are found in Section VII,
                        "Criteria for the Siting of Marinas or Community Facilities for Boat Mooring". The
                        criteria area summarized in the following chart.


                   Table 6: VMRC MARINA AND COMMUNITY FACILITY SITING CRITERIA
               CHECK LIST


                 Criteria                  Undesirable                                      Desirable
                 Water Depth               < than 3 ft. m1w.                                > than 3 ft. m1w.
                 Salinity                  Suitable for                                     Unsuitable for
                                           shellfish growth.                                shellfish growth.
                 Water Quality             Approved, conditionally                          Closed for direct marketing of shel-Ifish.
                                           approved or seasonally approved for              Little or no potential for future
                                           shellfish harvesting.                            productivity.
                 Designated                Private leases or public oyster ground in        No private leases or public ground
                 Shellfish Grounds         proximity.                                       within affected area. No potential for
                                                                                            future productivity.

                 Maximum                   > than I   ft.                                   < than 1 ft.
                 Wave Height

                 Current                   Greater than  1 knot.                            Less than I knot.
                 Dredging                  Requires frequent dredging.                      Does not m4= ft-equent maimenance.
                                           No suitable site for dredged material.           Suitable for all dredged material.
                 Flushing Rate             Inadequate to maintain water quality.            Adequate to maintain water quality.
                 (Tidal Exchange)
                 Proximity to              > than 50 ft. to navigable water depths.         < than 50 ft. to navigable channel.
                 Natural or
                 Improved Channel
                 Threatened or             Present as defined in existing regulations,      Absent; project will not affect.
                 Endangered Species        or project has potential to affect habitat.
                 Adjacent Wetlands         Cannot maintain suitable buffer.                 Suitable buffer to be maintained.
                 Navigation and            Water body difficult to navigate or              Navigation not impeded.
                 Safety                    presently overcrowded conditions exist.










                                                                                                              23

                 Existing Use of Site     Presently used for skiing, crabbing,          Not presently used for skiing, fishing,
                                          fishing, swimming or other potentially        swimming,or other recreational uses.
                                          conflicting uses.
                 Submerged                Present.                                      Absent.
                 Aquatic Vegetation
                 Shoreline                Bulkheading Required.                         Shoreline Protected by natural or
                 Stabilization                                                          planted vegetation or riprap.
                 Erosion Control          Groins and/or jetties necessary.              No artificial structures needed.
                 Structures

                 Finfish Habitat          Important spawning and nursery area.          Unimportant area for spawning or
                 Usage                                                                  nursery for any commercially or
                                                                                        recreationally valuable species.

               Source: Subaqueous Guidelines, Section VII - "Criteria for the Siting of Marinas or Community
                       Facilities for Boat Mooring". Virginia Marine Resources Commission: Newport News,
                       VA; March, 1986.










                                                                                                                 24

               C,      Recommendations

                       In considering recommendations for public access in Lancaster County, availability of
               land is a major factor. Recommendations will first look at publicly owned land. Secondly,
               recommendations will focus on land which might be used at minimal cost through use agreements
               or partnerships. Included in this category are inactive seafood industry sites, large timber tracts
               and farms, and private boat ramps which are currently available for use by the public. Lastly,
               recommendations will be made for lands which might be acquired at reasonable cost, such as
               smaller parcels for bank fishing/crabbing and cartop boat launching.

                       Also considered in making recommendations for public access in Lancaster County were
               the sensitive environmental features present at each site. Furthermore, proposed access locations
               were purposefully targeted near existing areas of water related activity (marinas, ferries, and
               seafood industry operations). Often the current activity has already had some type of impact on
               the environment. Thus, proposed access sites were not considered where they would disturb
               new, sensitive sites. Additionally, when recommendations do not give a specific location for a
               proposed use, it is urged that future candidate sites be considered on an individual basis to
               determine possible impact on environmentally sensitive areas.



                       Natural Area Access
                       There are two publicly owned tracts of land which are suited for natural area access,
                       Belle Isle State Park and the end of the Windmill Point Road. Currently, the master plan
                       for Belle Isle Park contains many proposals for natural area access. Plans call for both
                       nature trails and observation areas. These services will be provided as the park is
                       developed.   Therefore, it is recommended that available resources be focused on
                       development of the Windmill Point Road Site.

                       Concerning the Windmill Point Road site, the size of the available land makes it most
                       suitable for natural area access as an observation or overlook site. The site offers
                       extensive scenic views of the Rappahannock River and Chesapeake Bay.                  When
                       considering environmentally sensitive features, there are no wetlands present at the site,
                       there are no SAV beds growing immediately adjacent to the shoreline, and the nearby
                       shellfish grounds are condemned due to a nearby marina. Parking spaces could be
                       provided in the present turnaround area, and a walkway constructed to allow access to
                       the waterfront area. Near the waterfront area a large wooden deck could he constructed
                       which would also have wooden benches for viewing purposes of visitors. Another option
                       would be to construct a small elevated observation deck which would allow visitors
                       expanded views of the water. Development of this site for natural area access should be
                       contingent on the outcome of the proposal to develop this site as a public fishing pier
                       area.


                       Other opportunities for natural area access exist on the many large tracts of privately
                       owned land adjacent to tidal waters in Lancaster County. Many of the larger tracts of
                       timber, farm, and wetlands are ideal for natural area access, and should be targeted for










                                                                                                                  25

                        access through the negotiating of Use Agreements. Ideally large tracts of land which are
                        not in active use would be pursued first. Additionally, it is recommended that the larger
                        tracts owned by timber companies would be the initial targets. These companies are tied
                        to long term land ownership due to the nature of the product they produce. In the past
                        these companies have also responded to the recreational needs of the community, as is
                        evident in the existing Chesapeake Corporation Nature Trail.


                        Beaches and Swimming Areas
                        Belle Isle State Park is the only publicly owned land which has areas available for the
                        development of Beach and Swimming Areas. However, at this site, options for beach
                        development are limited, so focus has been instead placed on developing a swimming area
                        away from the waterfront. These facilities are slated to be constructed as the park is
                        developed.

                        The vast majority of land suitable for public beaches is in private ownership. This
                        situation has realistically limited the options for public beaches in Lancaster County.


                        Fishing Pier
                        Publicly owned land in the eastern side of the county is strongly recommended as a site
                        for a public fishing pier. In the event that no current publicly owned sites are found
                        suitable for this purpose, the county shall identify and purchase suitable privately owned
                        properties. Environmental considerations such as the presence of wetlands, submerged
                        aquatic vegetation, and viable shellfish grounds should be considered when acquiring the
                        potential site.

                        Secondly, after a suitable location is found the county should actively pursue development
                        funds from the state for this site. The county has an advantage in that current state
                        recreational access plans call for the much needed expansion of access to state waters in
                        our region. Grant programs for access development are offered by the Department of
                        Game and Inland Fisheries. Additionally, the Virginia Marine Resources Commission
                        is involved with the capital funding of saltwater recreational access sites. Available funds
                        in these programs may vary from year to year, but the maximum amount should be
                        pursued. After construction funds are obtained the pier should be developed, and a
                        management agreement worked out with the Virginia Marine Resources Commission and
                        the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries.

                        In the event that a suitable location can not be found for a public fishing pier in the
                        eastern half of the county, it is recommended that the county focus its efforts on the
                        development of fishing facilities at Belle Isle State Park. The Master Plan for Belle Isle
                        State Park calls for the construction of two fishing and crabbing piers at the park.
                        Furthermore, the Plan schedules the piers to be built within five years, during the first
                        phase of facilities construction. To assure that the piers are built in this time frame, the
                        county could work in a cooperative effort with the Division of State Parks in applying
                        for construction funds from available grant programs.









                                                                                                              28

              D.     Implementation


              I -    Local Efforts


              The County can immediately begin laying the groundwork for the provision of public access sites
              to the water in Lancaster County. Initial steps will only involve staff time, and will require the
              expenditure of no public funds.

              a.     County can actively recruit owners of inactive seafood industry sites to see if there is
                     interest in re-using these sites for public access purposes.

              b.     Pursue owners of private ramps currently being used by public to see if use agreements
                     are a possibility.

              C.     The county can ask the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries to request that the
                     Commonwealth Transportation Board turn over the publicly owned site at the end of the
                     Windmill Point Road.


              d.     Apply for grant funds for development of these sites (See Outside Funding Sources).

              e.     The County can make known that they want to gain ownership of publicly owned sites
                     at the Merry Point Ferry Landings, if and when they ever become available.

              f.     Contact owners of large tracts of timber on state waters to see about possibility of
                     negotiating use agreements for these lands.

              2.     Outside Technical Assistance


              DWartment of Conservation and Recreatio - According to representatives from the Department
              of Conservation and Recreation, they would be willing to provide technical assistance in site
              selection and in negotiating agreements between localities and private landowners for public
              access sites. Assistance would be contingent on whether or not the proposed project was
              compatible with state recreational access plans. All of the proposals in this plan are compatible
              with state plans.


              3.     Outside funding Sources

              Land and Water Conservation Fund (LCWF) - This is a Federal fund administered by the
              Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) through their Virginia Outdoor Fund
              Program. According to DCR, Virginia's allocation from the LCWF has been averaging
              $500,000 a year in recent years. Money is made available to localities on a competitive basis.
              Funds are provided on a 50150 matching basis, with localities putting up the other 50% of the
              project cost. The funds can be used for either acquisition or development of recreation sites.

              Boating and Water access projects are given priority by DCR in the awarding of grant funds.









                                                                                                             29

               Currently, DCR tries to fund about 4 or 5 projects each year. These projects usually average
               $100,000 in federal funds, for a total project cost of $200,000.


               Coastal Zone Management Program 306A Construction Grants - This program has limited funds
               which are available on a competitive basis. The program has had a total of approximately
               $200,000 available for grants in recent years. Funds for this program are also provided on- a
               50150 matching basis, with localities matching half the cost of the project.


               DG&IF Grants to Localities ProgEarn - Program provides 75 % of development costs for selected
               public boating access projects up to a maximum of $50,000, and up to $25,000 for selected
               public fishing access projects. Approximately 6 to 8 projects will be funded during fiscal year
               1995-96. Program awards funds on a competitive basis. If successful, the county would have
               to enter into a cooperative agreement with the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries to
               maintain and operate the facilities.


               Private Funding Sources - Virginia is home to many large angling clubs, especially in the larger
               urban areas of Tidewater, Richmond, and Northern Virginia. These groups could be solicited
               for private donations in support of the development of ptiblic fishing and boating facilities.
               Additionally, Virginia has many private foundations whi@h should be researched to determine if
               they offer grant funds for public access to watcr projects.










                                                       Cited Sources



              Atlas of National Wetlands Inventory Maps of Chesaj2eakt-DaY. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service;
              Regional 5 Office; Newton Comer, MA; and Annapolis Field Office; Arindpolis, MD:
              September, 1986.

              Chesapeake Bay Area Public Access Plan. Chesapeake Executive Council (States of
              Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia); December, 1990.

              Chesgl2eake-Bay Area Public Access -T&chnical Assistance RepQ . Chesapeake Executive Council
              (States of Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia); December, 1990.

              Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area Designation and Management Regulations (VR 173-02-01),
              Part V, Implementation. Assistance, and Determination of Consistency. Chesapeake Bay Local
              Assistance Department; Richmond, VA: 1990.

              1993 Distribution of Submerged Aquatic Vegetation in the Chesapeake Bay. Virginia Institute
              of Marine Science, School of Marine Science, The College of William and Mary; Williamsburg,
              VA: December, 1994.

              Lancaster County Comprehensive Plan. Lancaster County Planning Commission; Lancaster, VA:
              1992.

              Lancaster County Shoreline Invenj=. Northern Neck Planning District Commission; Callao,
              VA: April 1994.

              Lancaster County Shoreline Management Study PreliminwZ@ Results. University of Virginia,
              School of Architecture, Division of Urban and Environmental Planning; Charlottesville, VA:
              Spring, 1988.

              Local Assistance ManuaL Chesapeake Bay Local Assistance Department; Richmond, VA:
              November, 1989.

              Selected Statistics. United States Department of Agriculture, Bureau of the Census; Suitland,
              MD: 1970, 1980, and 1990.

              Shoreline SanitaU Surveys. Areas 16, 17@ 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, and 23. Virginia Department of
              Health, Shellfish Sanitation Office; White Stone, VA: 1986- 1994.

              Shoreline Situation Re1wrt for Lancaster County. Virginia Institute of Marine Science; Gloucester
              Point, VA :1978.

              SubaqUeous-Gaidelines, Section VII - "Criteria for the Siting of Marinas or Community Facilities
              for Boat Mooring". Virginia Marine Resources Commission; Newport News, VA: March, 1986.








              Virginia Nonl2oint Source Pollution WatCrshed Assessment Report. Virginia Department of
              Conservation and Recreation; Richmond, VA: March, 1993.




                                                 Mapping Sources


              Lancaster County Digital Tax MaI2 Coverag@s. VPI&SU Information Support System Laboratory;
              Blacksburg, VA.

              1:100-000 Digital USGS Water Layer -fD-r Lancaster County. VPI&SU Information Support
              System Laboratory; Blacksburg, VA.

              1:100,000 Digital USGS Road Layer for Lancaster County. VPI&SU Information Support
              System Laboratory; Blacksburg, VA.

              1993 Distribution of Submerged A!quatic Vegetation in the Ches=ake Day. Virginia Institute
              of Marine Science, School of Marine Science, The College of William and Mary; Williamsburg,
              VA: December, 1994.

































                                 "PENDICK




















                  i










                                 Location Map

                         LANCASTER COUNTY TAX M" GRID

                            I



                                .7  19


                            354 3







                                                   jq



                                 25
                                    ,4,                 31,



                                                       36 37

                                   3-Z



                                            .3% 31   q0   qj
                            TAX MAPS WHERE EXISTING-
                            PUBLIC ACCESS IS LOCATED






                                                                       Location Map

                                                     LANCASTER COUNTY TAX MAP GRID

                                                                             3



                                                -5                           9         q        10

                                                          354

                                                              13  14        15        1 fA



                                                                  20       @u-


                                                                         lo
                                                                            k"-"'Ar.                                   .301
                                                                                                                      36 3 71
                                                                 31



                                                                                              39       39        q0        ql
                                                    TAX MAPS WITH ABOVE AVERAGE
                                                     RESIDENTIAL SHORELINE USE
                                                                                    L
                                                                                      33        14
                                                                                      3-3









                                   Location Map
                          LANCASTER COUNTY TAX MAP GRID

                            I-    OL  3



                       5          '7           10
                             354 bD,
                               3  14  15  1(&  "') 1-7 1,9


                                                      Iq



                                   a5                      30

                                  n4

                                            eg
                                              Pr@          3,, 37
                                                3
                                                  3,1
                                 131  32, 3.3  @"0)4




                          TAX MAPS WITH ABOVE AVERAGE
                          DENSITIES OF PIERS ON WATERFRONT
                                  311                          37]







                                  Location Map

                         LANCASTER COUNTY TAX MAP GRID







                           354
                             1314  165

                                                         3,01
                                          eu
                                                        346 37
                               131  3a  33


                                             13% 31   q0   ql
                    TAX MAPS WITH POPULATION DENSITIES
                    GREATER THAN 50 PEOPLE PER SQUARE MILE
                                                   N









                                                                                                                              LEGEND

                                                                                                                              0     4.9
                                                                                                                              5     9.9
                                                                                                                             10     14.9
                                                                                                                                    19,9
                                                                                                                        RM 2 5      29,9

                           N
                                                                                                                         Percent of Hous-
                          R'v                                                                                                                     ing
                                                                                                                              I   in
                                                                                                                                      Bock Group
                                                                                                                         Un
                                                                                                                              -which are for
                              5;
                                ZOV
                                                                                                                               _@easonal Use

                                                                                                                            L44CASTER COU[ZY

                                                                                                                                  Apf- il  1995








                                                                                                                         Prepared By,
                                                                                                                         Lancaster County
                                                                                                                         Planning & Land Use
                                                                                                                         Cif f ICP-


                                                                                                                         Source         1990 Census
                                                                                                                                  Block Group Dato










                                                                                                                                                    LEGEr-.JD
                                                                                                                                                  Deepwat er
                                                                                                                                             Fill I Al Non-Tldcjl
                                                                                                                                                  TI d7il
                                                                                                                                                  Upland

                                                                                                                                               Tidal and
                                                                                                                                                N o n -T i d                  I
                                                                                                                                                  Vil
                                                                                                                                                       eflands
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                                                                                                                                              L
                                                                                                                                                  -1 C'                     Y     %/A
                                                                                                                                               Ar VI-STER COUM









                                                                                                                                               Crecited E@Y-
                                                                                                                                               Lancaster County
                                                                                                                                               PlannInci           Land Use
                                                                                                                                               Of f ice.


                                                                                                                                              Apr], -1995









                                                                                                                                         LEGE[,,JD

                                                                                                                                         Land

                                                                                                                                         Wat er-

                                                                                                                                          'hL -sh Be-cls
                                                                                                                                             -11fi
                                                                                                                                        S he I If 'I S
                                                                                                                                         Grounds

                                                                                                                                    LANGLFSTER Cn-Ul\FP(, VA
                                                                                                                                              April, '1995










                                                                                                                                    Created
                                                                                                                                    Lancaster County
                                                                                                                                    Planning Lr Land Use
                                                                                                                                    G f f I

                                                                                                                                    Souroe- Lancaster Co.
                                                                                                                                    Shxelire. Nigmt- Study
                                                                                                                                   Prelimir-ary Results, 1982,





                         Seof ood          Industry          Sit es                    Lanccrter CoLviky, VA
                                                                                           Februcry, 1995

















                                                      f
                                              14




                                                                    0i                  Created Bv
                                                                     'R                 Lanccuter  Co-
                                                                                        Plonring &- Land Use
                                                                                        Of f ice.










                                           Virginia Department of Health
                                 Shellfish Condemnation Areas in Lancaster County


             I      Dymer Creek
             2.     Carter Creek
             3.     Rappahannock River (at Windmill Point Marina)
             4.     Indian Creek
             5.     Eastern Branch, Corrotoman River
             6.     Rappahannock River/Greenvale Creek
             7.     Rappahannock River/Paynes Creek
             8.     Rappahannock River[Beach Creek
             9.     Rappahannock River/Wyatt Creek
             10.    Lancaster and Mulberry Creeks
             11.    Deep Creek
             12.    Western Branch, Corrotoman River
             13.    Tabbs Creek
             14.    Oyster Creek (Rescinded, December 1994)
             15.    Corrotoman River/Whitehouse Creek
             16.    Antipoision Creek





                                                     Submerged Aquatic Vegetation, 1993
                                                        Irvington, Fleets Bay, Wilton and
                                                           Deltaville, VA Quadrangles









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                                                                                      FLAT BOOK 2    PAGE 28









                                                                                                                go.



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                          7!



                                                                                                                                                          THE LANDIN



                                                                                                                                                                                 IAIL FL


                                                          011019






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