(a) It is the intent of the Legislature that state and local land use actions identified as “covered actions” pursuant to Section 85057.5 be consistent with the Delta Plan. This section’s findings, policies, and goals apply to Delta land use planning and development.

(b) The actions of the council shall be guided by the findings, policies, and goals expressed in this section when reviewing decisions of the commission pursuant to Division 19.5 (commencing with Section 29700) of the Public Resources Code.

(c) The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:

(1) The Delta is a distinct and valuable natural resource of vital and enduring interest to all the people and exists as a delicately balanced estuary and wetland ecosystem of hemispheric importance.

(2) The permanent protection of the Delta’s natural and scenic resources is the paramount concern to present and future residents of the state and nation.

(3) To promote the public safety, health, and welfare, and to protect public and private property, wildlife, fisheries, and the natural environment, it is necessary to protect and enhance the ecosystem of the Delta and prevent its further deterioration and destruction.

(4) Existing developed uses, and future developments that are carefully planned and developed consistent with the policies of this division, are essential to the economic and social well-being of the people of this state and especially to persons living and working in the Delta.

(d) The fundamental goals for managing land use in the Delta are to do all of the following:

(1) Protect, maintain, enhance, and, where feasible, restore the overall quality of the Delta environment and its natural and artificial resources.

(2) Ensure the utilization and conservation of Delta resources, taking into account the social and economic needs of the people of the state.

(3) Maximize public access to Delta resources and maximize public recreational opportunities in the Delta consistent with sound resources conservation principles and constitutionally protected rights of private property owners.

(4) Encourage state and local initiatives and cooperation in preparing procedures to implement coordinated planning and development for mutually beneficial uses, including educational uses, in the Delta.

(5) Develop new or improved aquatic and terrestrial habitat and protect existing habitats to advance the goal of restoring and enhancing the Delta ecosystem.

(6) Improve water quality to protect human health and the environment consistent with achieving water quality objectives in the Delta.

(Added by Stats. 2009, 7th Ex. Sess., Ch. 5, Sec. 39. (SB 1 7x) Effective February 3, 2010.)