Michigan is a highly populated state that has an abundance of lakes, ponds, rivers, streams, and associated wetlands. Wetlands are prevalent in many areas of the state and are often times situated adjacent to prime development areas or are sometimes the only areas left to be developed. Therefore, it is almost certain that a developer, builder, or similar land related entity will eventually become involved with a project that may include some involvement with regulated wetlands.

Wetlands are highly complex ecosystems that perform a variety of beneficial functions for the environment. The definition of a wetland is: "Land characterized by the presence of water at a frequency and duration sufficient to support and that under normal circumstances does support wetland vegetation or aquatic life and is commonly referred to as a bog, swamp, or marsh".

 Why are wetlands important?

• Wetlands control floodwaters and erosion by acting as natures sponges
• Wetlands improve water quality by filtering and removing impurities
• Wetlands provide critical habitat for fish and other wildlife
• Wetlands create buffer zones between deep or open water and upland habitats
• Wetlands provide areas for recreational activities such as hunting, fishing, etc.

Construction or development activities in certain wetlands are regulated and usually require a permit from the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ), the Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) or both.

Envirologic maintains a staff of biologists, hydrogeologists, geologists, and an ACOE qualified wetland delineator to assist you in determining the best solution to your wetland regulatory requirements.

• Wetland Determinations - A quick cost effective method of reviewing data sources (e.g., national wetland inventory maps, soil surveys, etc.) to determine if regulated wetlands are present and if a permit would be required
• Wetland Delineations - Usually required as part of the permitting process and includes on-site field surveys and flagging of the wetland boundaries as well as data review
• Wetland Permitting - Envirologic can provide the necessary services to apply for a permit with the appropriate regulatory agency

Envirologic Technologies, Inc. can also provide additional wetland related services including; wetland mitigation plans, sedimentation and erosion control permits, water quality analysis, local, state or federal permitting and endangered species surveys.

Examples of activities requiring a permit:

• Placing fill materials, dredging, or draining
• Utility crossings
• Installation of roads or driveway accesses
• Other development or construction activities

For additional information on available services, please contact Chris Douglas