Wetland Mitigation Programs:Challenges, Opportunities and Partnerships

Southeast Alaska Stakeholder MeetingOctober 22, 2011

Steve SegoHabitat Bank NW

Mitigation Programs• History• Multiple jurisdictions, layers-–USACE/EPA– Services– State– Tribes– Burroughs/Cities–Others

• Banking is the preferred off site solution – 2008 Federal Rule

Challenges

• Failed mitigation • Confusion about programs– Sequencing– Impacts

• Layers of jurisdiction• Watershed approach vs. sub-basin• Agency support– Compliance– Coordination

• Cost• Lack of certainty, timelines and permitting

Opportunities - Alaska

• SAWC• Demand• Supportive agencies• Track record/history to build on• Compliance concepts/rules in place• Timing

Checklist• Demand

– Location: Service Area– Public/private impacts

• Site selection– Condition– Size– Restoration cost– Local jurisdictions, neighbors

• Prospectus• MBI/ILFI

– Credits, release schedule– Design– Performance Standards

• Conservation Easement, long term M & M• Construction• Marketing• $$$$

The Right Partners

• The right consultants• Land trusts/easement holders• Experienced restoration contractors• Partners that need credits• Partners with valuable skills• Good legal advice

Next Steps

• Consolidated commitment from agencies• Constructive relationship with sponsors,

agencies, permitted applicants• Public education• Third party alliances• More is better – More interested bankers/ILF sponsors the better– Replicate success