CWD Ecosystem Restoration 5

Question 1

Which federal program established mitigation banking as a preferred form of compensatory mitigation for wetland impacts?

Accepted Answer

2008 Mitigation Rule under Clean Water Act Section 404

Answer

The 2008 Compensatory Mitigation Rule established a preference hierarchy with mitigation banks first, in-lieu fee programs second, and permittee-responsible mitigation third.

Question 2

What is the ecological rationale for using locally sourced seed stock in wetland restoration plantings?

Accepted Answer

Local genotypes are adapted to regional climate and hydrology and maintain genetic integrity of native populations

Answer

Local genotypes are adapted to local photoperiod, precipitation patterns, and soil conditions, improving plant establishment success and preserving regional genetic diversity.

Question 3

In a tidal freshwater forested wetland restoration, which tree species would be a priority planting in the southeastern US?

Accepted Answer

Bald cypress (Taxodium distichum) and water tupelo (Nyssa aquatica)

Answer

Bald cypress and water tupelo are the dominant canopy species in southeastern tidal freshwater swamps and are the ecologically appropriate restoration targets for this wetland type.

Question 4

What is 'adaptive management' as applied to a long-term wetland restoration monitoring program?

Accepted Answer

Using monitoring data to identify underperformance and adjusting management actions to achieve restoration objectives

Answer

Adaptive management uses systematic monitoring data to trigger corrective actions (e.g., invasive species removal, hydrology adjustment) when performance standards are not being met.

Question 5

Which factor most commonly causes long-term failure of restored wetland mitigation sites?

Accepted Answer

Chronic hydrologic deficits due to inadequate water source or altered watershed conditions

Answer

Insufficient or poorly designed hydrology is the leading cause of mitigation site failure, as vegetation and function cannot persist without the correct hydroperiod.

(CWD) Certified Wetland Delineator Practice Test

(CWD) Certified Wetland Delineator Practice Test

CWD Ecosystem Restoration 5