The Wetlands and Waterways Protection Program, Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE), has developed guidance and an assessment to better recognize the condition and resources of wetlands in the riparian area adjacent to streams proposed for restoration, particularly for Chesapeake Bay Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) credit.
Why is this needed?
Debate and delays over review and approval for some stream restoration projects has occurred over resource tradeoffs which may occur due to direct construction disturbance and/or increased inundation in the floodplain.
How was this developed?
MDE and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources developed a rapid assessment and training modules focusing on characteristics of key wildlife habitats in riparian systems with wetlands. The assessment uses common information collected during wetland delineations. MDE has also developed training modules for application of the guidance.
This guidance is based on real examples and practices used to minimize tree loss and adverse wetland impacts. Guidance covers all phases of project planning, design, and construction.
Where should the assessment and guidance be used?
This project has separate assessments for sites in the Piedmont and Coastal Plain regions of Maryland. The guidance applies to both regions.
Next Steps:
The guidance and assessments will be evaluated for updates and applicability for use in the Piedmont and Coastal Plain regions of Maryland. An updated version is expected to be completed by the end of 2024.
For additional information or to provide feedback, please contact Ms. Denise Clearwater at
denise.clearwater@maryland.gov.
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