Wetland Identification and Mitigation
During the development of real estate, multiple issues can arise that may delay, impact and/or increase costs of a finished project. Wetland issues, if not handled correctly and in a timely manner, can severely delay, increase costs and sometimes cripple construction efforts. According to the Corps of Engineering Wetlands Delineation Manual (Technical Report Y-87-1), wetlands are defined as areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. Wetlands generally include swamps, marshes, bogs, and similar areas. It is important that these areas be identified by a trained field scientist prior to the start of construction projects or in a timely manner once projects have begun.
In order to identify wetland areas, M&A reviews all available information which may include, but not be limited to, Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) soil data to identify hydric soils. Additionally, National Wetland Inventory (NWI) and topographic maps may be utilized to determine areas where wetlands are likely to occur. A field biologist trained in wetland identification then conducts an onsite investigation to confirm or deny the presence of wetland areas. If wetland areas are identified, M&A offers clients wetland services which include negotiations with respective regulatory agencies up to and through permitting and mitigation.
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