Wetlands State Resource Locator
Note: Most states have enacted laws and regulations to protect wetlands. In many cases, these rules are established to define the state's role in the "404 permit/401 certification process." This process involves the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and your state environmental agency. To learn more about the wetlands permitting process go to the CICA Wetlands Regulations/Permit page.
Primary State Wetlands Web Page. This web page should explain the state wetlands program and provide links to various wetlands resources.
How Are Wetlands Activities Regulated by Alabama? Projects which include potential impacts to waterbottoms or the dredging and/or filling of wetlands will require permits and/or certifications from ADEM, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers(USACE), and, in some instances, the State Oil and Gas Board, and/or the ALDCNR-State Lands Division. The ADEM review of these types of projects is normally initiated when the property owner makes application to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Some of these projects, such as the construction of residential piers and projects involving minimal wetlands impacts, may be permitted under a pre-certified USACE General or Nationwide Permit and will not require further review by the Department. Many projects will require an Individual Permit from the USACE, which will be jointly reviewed by the USACE and ADEM concurrently. This includes: Marinas, including the expansion of existing marinas; Shoreline stabilization such as seawalls, bulkheads, jetties, groins and similar structures; Beach nourishment projects; Major dredging projects; Projects involving more than minimal impacts to wetlands; and Placement of oil and gas platforms. Dredge and fill activities that are not regulated under the state's Coastal Area Management Program are only reviewed through the DEM's ? 401 Water Quality Certification program.
Regulatory Definitions
- Wetlands. Wetlands are areas "delineated pursuant to the technical criteria described in the Federal Wetlands Delineation Manual that is currently being used in the Federal Corps of Engineers and/or any other updated manual that may be used in the future." Wetlands do not include areas that result from man-made conditions, except for mitigation sites.
Wetland Regulatory Background Information
- Environmental Agency Contacts.
- US EPA - Wetlands Protection and Restoration.
- Description of Alabama's wetlands program prepared by the ELI (Environmental Law Institute).
- National Association of Wetlands Managers' links to Alabama programs and points of contacts.
Water Environment Federation. The WEF Web site provides access to a wetlands related technical discussion area, as well as publications and other information on wetlands.
