Resource Management Areas (RMAs) (PDF) are contiguous to RPAs and if these lands are improperly developed, the potential exists to cause significant water quality degradation or to diminish the functional value of the RPA. These lands include flood plains, highly erodible soils associated with steep slopes, non-tidal wetlands not included in the RPA, and other lands necessary to protect water quality. Development proposals in the RMA which exceed 16% impervious area must treat stormwater runoff through the use of Best Management Practices (BMPs) to ensure that nonpoint source pollution does not impact water quality. In the City of Suffolk, the RMA includes all land outside of the RPA that is within the Chesapeake Bay watershed.