Final answer:
An encroachment review should review projects in a floodway for environmental impact and effects on floodway dynamics, ensuring minimal negative impacts and preservation of the floodway's natural functions.
Step-by-step explanation:
An encroachment review for projects within a floodway should primarily assess two aspects: environmental impact and the effect on floodway dynamics. Environmental impact assessments are crucial to determining how a project, such as a dam, will affect the local ecosystem. It is of utmost importance to investigate if these assessments were completed prior to the construction of any such project. This ensures a comprehensive understanding of potential changes to wildlife habitat, fish migration patterns, water flow, and water quality.
In addition to environmental concerns, the review should consider how the project will alter the floodway's natural functions. Projects should be scrutinized to confirm that they do not exacerbate flooding conditions or violate water rights. Additionally, planners should engage conservation biologists and involve the local community in discussions about how the project could conflict with existing natural resources and habitats.
The ultimate objective of the encroachment review is to facilitate projects that minimize negative environmental impacts while preserving the integrity of floodway dynamics, effectively balancing development needs with conservation priorities.