Regulatory Issues in Stream Restoration

When an team designs a stream restoration project, the design team is also responsible for the submission of associated permits. Permits and other reviews may be required by a number of Federal, state and local agencies for the same project. Some permit and review criteria may not be sympathetic and, at times, seem contradictory to the restoration project's design intent. For example, designing a dam removal and channel restoration project that does not immediately stabilize channel banks with vegetation or rock may appear to be in conflict with some of the soil erosion and sediment control practices or other water quality requirements. Designing and permitting a restoration project may then require the designer to take on a significant education role with regulators. Using local professional organizations or key regulators to help arrange educational seminars by leading restoration practitioners is one method of helping assure project reviewers understand some of the necessary principles to authorize a successful project.