CWD Wetland Mitigation & Banking Flashcards

What is the primary goal of wetland mitigation under the Clean Water Act Section 404?

Answer: To achieve no net loss of wetland acreage and function

The Clean Water Act Section 404 mitigation policy aims for no net loss of wetland acreage and function.

What is a wetland mitigation bank?

Answer: A site where wetlands are restored or created in advance to generate credits for future impacts

A mitigation bank is a site where wetlands are restored, established, or enhanced in advance of anticipated impacts to generate credits sold to permit applicants.

Which sequence represents the preferred order of mitigation under the 404(b)(1) Guidelines?

Answer: Avoidance, minimization, compensation

The mitigation sequence under Section 404 guidelines prioritizes avoidance first, then minimization, then compensatory mitigation.

What is an in-lieu fee (ILF) program in wetland mitigation?

Answer: A program where applicants pay a fee instead of restoring wetlands directly

An ILF program allows permittees to pay a fee to an approved organization that performs mitigation on behalf of multiple permittees.

What ratio is typically required when creating new wetlands to compensate for impacts to high-quality natural wetlands?

Answer: 2:1 or higher

Higher mitigation ratios (2:1 or greater) are typically required when compensating for impacts to high-quality natural wetlands due to ecological uncertainty.

Which federal agency administers the wetland mitigation banking program jointly with the EPA?

Answer: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, together with the EPA, administers the mitigation banking program under the 2008 Compensatory Mitigation Rule.