Benefits of SOAR
The SOAR laws provide multiple benefits to the residents of Ventura County. By stopping urban sprawl, SOAR is:
KEEPING OUR CITIES FROM SPRAWLING TOGETHER
SOAR protects the greenbelts between cities and preserves each city’s distinct identity, and encourages redevelopment within cities where there are services and utilities.
CONSERVING NATURE
SOAR protects habitats and wildlife corridors with threatened and endangered species, and provides opportunities for their purchase as parkland. It also gives an additional layer of protection for parks.
PROTECTING AIR QUALITY
SOAR protects the greenbelt areas between our cities and preserves large undeveloped airsheds for clean air. SOAR also protects air quality by holding the line on development so overall there are less cars to pollute.
CONSERVING OUR WATER
SOAR keeps intact areas of unpaved open space that filter stormwater, replenish groundwater aquifers, and provide natural flood control systems. Creeks and wetlands in these systems are essential to wildlife.
FURTHERING ECONOMIC GROWTH
SOAR protects some of the most productive farmland in the world that supports a $2.3 billion agriculture industry. It also protects a quality of life that attracts homebuyers, clean businesses and high paying jobs.
SECURING A SAFE FOOD SOURCE
SOAR saves farmland that helps to provide our region with a secure food source in the face of an uncertain future. It also enables the availability of fresh, local produce that promotes health.
NOURISHING THE SPIRIT
SOAR offers relief from the stresses of urban living by preserving large expanses of open space adjacent to urban areas. Whether for passive recreation or simply to enjoy the scenic beauty, SOAR-protected lands are good for the soul.
CONTROLLING CONGESTION
SOAR discourages traffic-generating projects built far from city services. It has slowed the growth in automobile traffic and vehicle miles traveled, so Ventura County experiences far less congestion than areas without SOAR, like the San Fernando Valley.
FIGHTING FOR A BETTER FUTURE
SOAR protects farmland and open space today, giving our children and grandchildren a fighting chance at achieving a sustainable future with the same benefits of SOAR that we have. This legacy is our greatest gift to pass on to those following in our footsteps.