What does it mean to delineate a wetland?

What does it mean to delineate a wetland?

What is wetland delineation? Wetland identification and delineation establishes the existence (location) and physical limits (size) of a wetland for purposes of complying with the Clean Water Act and other federal, state, and local regulations.

When is the best time of year to do wetland delineation?

Because a large part of the wetland delineation process is looking at vegetation, wetland delineations are best done during the growing season. In Iowa, this generally means from May 15 – September 15. After the initial field work is completed a report is submitted to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers where the official determination is made.

How long does it take to complete a wetland delineation?

This could take months; therefore, we recommend completing a wetland delineation in the early phases of your project planning. How long is my delineation good for? Once approved, a wetland delineation determination is good for 5-years.

How are wetlands protected?

Today, wetlands are protected by both state and federal laws. In accordance with those laws, before any work can be done in 100-feet proximity to a wetlands area, the wetland’s boundaries have to be delineated by a certified specialist.

Do you know the boundaries of wetlands on your property?

Anyone planning a development project must know the precise boundaries of wetlands on the property as determined through delineation procedures specified in state and federal rules.

Who makes the boundary determination for a wetland?

A wetland professional is generally required to make the boundary determination and their findings are subject to review by the DNR and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. All determinations must follow the requirements specified in these documents:

What does the wetland team do for NRCS?

Wetland Delineation. Additionally, the Wetland Team is leading an effort by NRCS to develop and deliver Wetland Delineation for NRCS, a training course which will be available to NRCS staffs through the National Employee Development Center. Team members hold lead roles and provide technical oversight in all existing NRCS training courses related…