A sustainable community preserves natural systems in order to maintain quality of soil, air and water and because they offer a richness that nurtures the human spirit. Healthy landscapes are necessary to sustain the complex myriad of plant and animal species that share our habitat. We are dependent on the surrounding landscapes for many resources such as food, water and fuel; for recreational opportunities and aesthetic values; and for vital natural processes such as water retention and recycling, air cleansing, carbon sequestration, and nutrient cycling. Preservation of our natural systems can help guide new growth into existing developed areas. In addition, a network of healthy natural systems and green infrastructure can make very important contributions to the overall prosperity of the region.