Sec. 32-218. Wetland Concept Plan

If the proposed project includes any regulated activity;

If the proposed project can be modified to first avoid and then to minimize impacts on nontidal wetlands;

If the proposed activity falls under the jurisdiction of a Unified Nontidal Wetland permit, a State Nontidal Wetland permit or if a Federal Section 404 permit may be required; and

If the proposed activity is exempt or if it qualifies for a Letter of Authorization.

The review process can be used to identify wetland areas, verify wetland delineations, or assist the applicant in identifying the type of nontidal wetland permits required for the proposed project.

Submission requirements. The application and background information shall include the name of the property; the name of the applicant; the name of the property owner and their signatures; the name of the contract purchaser; a location map; the County Road Atlas page number and grid coordinates; zoning classification; a site plan of all proposed regulated and nonregulated activities, including, but not limited to the topography, natural features, location and dimensions of structures, driveways, pools, walk-ways, utility lines, septic systems and wells; a narrative of the proposed project's purpose; and any other information the Department may require.

Additional submission requirements. If applicable, the following information shall also be submitted: the wetland report and delineation in accordance with the Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation manual, Technical Report Y-87-1 and any subsequent amendments. Forest Stand Delineation and the proposed Type I or Type II Tree Conservation Plan; the proposed or approved preliminary plan of subdivision; soil map; drainage area map; and a 200 foot scale map of the project site if the proposed project involves a subdivision or a commercial or industrial use.

If necessary to identify the potential impacts of a proposed project, the Department will request submission of one or more of the following: an analysis of pre- and post discharges to wetlands (changes to discharges, volumes and velocities); the total number of sites considered by an applicant along with the physical, economic and demographic characteristics of each site; the purpose of the proposed project and its relationship to the site; the location of any existing structural or natural features that constrain the placement or configuration of the proposed project; the spatial requirements of the proposed project; the sensitivity of the project design to the nontidal wetland(s); and any proposed phasing of the project (for larger projects which may not be completed within three (3) years, it is recommended that the project be phased).

Reduction in acreage of a nontidal wetland affected by a regulated activity;

Harm to threatened or endangered species or species in need of conservation, or the critical habitat of these species;

Movement of aquatic and wildlife species indigenous to the nontidal wetland or water body;

Ability of the nontidal wetland to continue to support and provide habitat for those aquatic and wildlife species using the area;

Hydrologic regime of the areas upstream and downstream of the area of impact;

Functions of the impacted and/or adjacent nontidal wetlands;

Passage of normal or expected high flows, or the relocation of water;

Subsurface water flow into or out of any nontidal wetland area;

Presence of, or potential for, supporting fish spawning areas;

Presence of areas having significant plant or wildlife value;

Cumulative impact to nontidal wetlands; and,

Impacts to the 100- year floodplain.