We have mentioned that wetlands are a productive ecosystem. In fact, play host to a variety of species, including birds, fish and mammals. Wetlands vary depending on the weather, geological factors and quantity of water. Wetlands differ in the location for example, between Alaska and Florida. Most, however, provide a large amount of food for many animals. They also help moderate weather conditions throughout the world. In view of the importance of wetlands, the United States Government has passed laws that regulate wetlands.
Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (CWA) establishes a program to regulate the discharge of dredged or fill material into the waters of the United States, including wetlands. The activities in the waters of the United States covered under this program include filling for development, water resources projects (such as dams and dikes), infrastructure development (such as roads and airports) and mining projects. Section 404 requires a permit before dredged or fill material can be discharged into the waters of the United States, unless the activity is exempt from regulation Section 404 (for example, agriculture and certain forestry activities).
The basic premise of the program is not the discharge of dredged or fill material can be permitted if: (1) a possible alternative that there is less damaging to the aquatic environment or (2) the nation& 39;s waters would be seriously degraded. In other words, when you apply for a permit, you must prove you have, to the extent possible:
Taken steps to avoid the effects of wetlands;
would minimize the potential impacts on wetlands;
Provided compensation for the remaining unavoidable impacts.
Proposed activities are regulated through a permit review process. A person is required to permit any significant impacts. The permits are reviewed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which evaluates applications under a review of public interest and environmental criteria set out in the Clean Water Act Section 404 (b) (1) Guidelines. However, for most discharges that will have minimal adverse effects, a general permit may be appropriate. General permits are issued at national, regional, state or basis for certain categories of activities. The process eliminates the permit individual examination and allows certain activities to proceed with little or no delay, provided that the general or specific conditions to allow general are met.
Builders and developers typically obtain the services of state registered licensed Landscape Architects to assist in this process. Landscape Architects can develop site plans to protect wetlands or the possible transfer of a wetland and assist in obtaining the necessary permits.
Landscape Architects are required to be licensed by the state where the practice and are often members of the American Society of Landscape Architects, ASLA. Landscape architecture encompasses the analysis, planning, design, administration and management of natural heritage and built environments. ASLA full members have graduated from an accredited landscape architecture program, have 7 years of education and / or professional experience and are state licensed. In Michigan, as well as all other States, a period of three (3) days Lara examination administered by the Council of Landscape Architecture of Boards of registration is needed to be approved for a state licensure.
Landscape these designers do not have professional credentials. Many state and local governments require designs to be stamped with a state registered Landscape Architect & 39; s label, especially if a wetland is involved.
As seen a landscape architect in the State of Michigan and the principle architect Sexton ENNETT Design, LC, a landscape architectural firm in southeastern Michigan, I am particularly conscious of the need to protect wetlands. See http://www.sexton-ennett.com
I also a breeder of champion Oldenburg horses Warmblood sport and I am especially sensitive to issues of wetlands in the equestrian facilities gardening. See http://www.markimfarms.com
Understand the importance of wetlands and their protection.
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