It is found that the upper Connecticut River and the towns abutting the river possess unique scenic, hydrologic, ecological, agricultural, recreational and historical value contributing to public enjoyment, inspiration and well being. Furthermore, it is found that it is in the public interest that the provisions of this chapter be adopted to preserve such values for the enjoyment of present and future generations of Connecticut citizens and to accomplish the following: (1) The protection and improvement of the water quality of the Connecticut River; (2) the preservation of the flood storage capacity of the Connecticut River; (3) the preservation of unique natural historic and scenic areas and the natural topography of riverfront land; (4) the preservation and encouragement of agricultural land uses which conserve the area’s soil and water resources and maintain and increase the area’s long-term food producing capacity; (5) the promotion of the area’s recreational potential consistent with the ability of the land and the river to support such use; (6) the influencing of the visual impact of riverfront development; and (7) the encouragement of preservation and rehabilitation of the Connecticut River greenbelt.