Broadly conceived plans applicable to an area defined by an aquatic resource. Can be implemented at the county level:

1. Small watershed protection districts.
2. County lake protection and rehabilitation districts.
3. Soil and water conservation districts.

At the municipal level:

1. Zoning can help, but is limited to boundaries of zoning districts.
2. Natural resource ordinances: floodplain regulations, coastal zone protection, sedimentation and erosion controls.
3. Comprehensive plans can designate watershed areas and establish conservation overlay districts with detailed standards or conservation easements.

To maintain water quality; coordinate the various state and federal regulations governing water resources; to reestablish natural functions such as habitat, biodiversity and stormwater management.

Restricting time of use and development can be both politically and economically challenging.

Can be the basis for more comprehensive planning of larger landscapes. Can be used to leverage inter-municipal cooperation. Can be used to attract county and state resources.