How long is a wetland delineation valid in Massachusetts?

three years
Pursuant to a municipal wetlands ordinance or bylaw. This Determination is valid for three years from the date of issuance (except Determinations for Vegetation Management Plans which are valid for the duration of the Plan).

What are the three specific criteria of wetland delineation?

Wetlands must have three specific criteria in order to be classified as a wetland: hydric soils, hydrophytic vegetation, and hydrology.

How are wetlands determined in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, wetlands are defined by three parameters including hydrology, vegetation and soils and may not be easy to identify. A wetland may not always have water in it, or at all. If you answer yes to any of these questions, it is likely that you need a wetland permit to do your project.

Which of these laws impact the use and preservation of wetlands areas in Massachusetts?

The Wetlands Protection Act (Massachusetts General Laws (MGL) Chapter 131, Section 40) protects wetlands and the public interests they serve, including flood control, prevention of pollution and storm damage, and protection of public and private water supplies, groundwater supply, fisheries, land containing shellfish.

What is a wetland delineation study?

A stream or wetland delineation study involves a thorough investigation of any critical areas on-site. The critical area boundary is flagged and displayed on a map along with the associated buffer width. The map is presented in a report that may be used for permitting as well as site layout.

What can you do with wetlands on your property in Massachusetts?

The wetland regulations prohibit most destruction of wetlands and naturally vegetated riverfront areas, and require replacement of flood storage loss when floodplains are filled. What activities are allowed? Most activities, such as construction, landscaping, and grading, require a permit.

Can wetlands be drained?

Water-level drawdown or drainage of wetlands can produce major changes in soil physical, chemical, and biological properties. As wetlands were drained for water control, agriculture, or other uses, the primary processes leading to the development of their organic soils, such as flooding, were removed.