This memorandum describes (1) the potential applicability to Pima County of a national initiative to institute reforms in floodplain management; and (2) an assessment of the effectiveness of Pima County's Riparian Habitat Mitigation Ordinance (attachment). An inter-departmental team was formed to formulate specific proposals for consideration as part of the Riparian Protection Element of the SDCP and the major plan amendment to the County's comprehensive plan.

Arizona is one of the most highly urbanized states in the nation with 87.5% of the population as of 1990 lives in an urban area. Corporate American views Tucson for tourism and mining. It is also known for aviation, missiles and aerospace; and for its astronomy and optics like Kitt Peak and Mt. Graham observatories. "Economic success will increasingly be determined by how effectively an area can spur technological innovation, entrepreneurship, education, specialized skills, and the transition of all organization -- public and private -- from bureaucratic hierarchies to learning networks."