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Residents split over riparian setbacks as Livingston board considers 10‑ to 300‑foot buffers
Summary
Public commenters and board members debated riparian setback distances for creeks and the Yellowstone River. Conservation advocates urged substantial buffers based on post‑flood science and floodplain mapping; multiple nearby residents opposed large setbacks citing property use, fencing and rebuilding concerns. Staff agreed to research best‑pract
Public comment at the Oct. 14 Livingston Land Use Board meeting highlighted sharp differences over proposed riparian setbacks in the draft zoning code.
Supporters of larger buffers, including Ken Cochran of Prince Of Park County, cited legal authority in the Montana Constitution and state code, recent scientific work after the 2022 flood, and ongoing FEMA floodplain remapping as a reason to adopt substantial setbacks to protect water quality and provide room for channel migration during high‑water events. Cochran urged the board to consider decisions like the recent Montana cases…
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