Mitigation Information

From Hydric Soils to Compensatory Mitigation

Understanding Wetlands: From Hydric Soils to Compensatory Mitigation   Wetlands are among the most regulated and ecologically valuable landscapes in the United States — yet most people couldn’t define one if asked. Understanding what a wetland actually is, how scientists identify them in the field, and what happens when one is impacted by development is essential knowledge for anyone working in real estate, construction, engineering, or environmental consulting in Florida and beyond. This blog breaks it all down. What Is a Wetland? Most people

Mitigation Banking 101: How Does Mitigation Banking Work?

Mitigation Banking 101: How Does Mitigation Banking Work? Mitigation banking is a market-based environmental solution designed to balance economic development with the protection of natural resources. Instead of relying on taxpayer funding, mitigation banking directs private investment toward ecosystem restoration and long-term conservation. The concept originally developed to address the widespread loss of wetlands but has since expanded to include habitat protection for endangered species, water quality improvements, and other ecological services. At its core, mitigation banking

The Balancing Act Between Growth and Wetland Conservation in Florida

The Balancing Act Between Growth and Wetland Conservation in Florida On March 10, 2026, Victoria Bruce, CEO of The Mitigation Banking Group, joined an expert panel at the Volusia County Association for Responsible Development (VCARD) seminar in DeLand, Florida to discuss how Florida manages the balance between growth and wetland conservation. The full presentation is now available to watch below. What Was Covered The program brought together regulatory professionals, environmental consultants, and industry leaders for a morning of discussion on wetland

Wetland Mitigation Bank Size in Florida

Wetland Mitigation Bank Size in Florida: How Large Are Mitigation Banks? Wetland mitigation banks are large-scale environmental restoration projects designed to offset unavoidable wetland impacts from development. One of the most common questions developers, landowners, and investors ask is: How large is a wetland mitigation bank? Understanding wetland mitigation bank size is essential when evaluating ecological benefits, credit generation potential, regulatory approval, and overall project viability. What Is the Typical Size of a Wetland Mitigation Bank? Wetland mitigation banks vary significantly in size depending

The Process of Establishing a Wetland Mitigation Bank

The Process of Establishing a Wetland Mitigation Bank Starting a mitigation bank involves several key steps, beginning with land selection. Identifying a suitable site for a wetland mitigation bank can be challenging. Key considerations include: A mix of uplands and wetlands Restoration potential, which may involve:  Invasive species removal  Pine thinning  Restoring hydrology  Fire suppression Once a suitable site is identified, the next step is to prepare an application for submission to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and/or State Agency. This application should include: A detailed mitigation

Florida Senate Bill 848: Water Quality Credits & WQEA Explained

Florida Senate Bill 848: A Game Changer for Water Quality Credits and Mitigation Banking Florida’s mitigation and environmental credit markets are evolving—and Senate Bill 848 (SB 848) represents a major step forward in how water quality impacts can be addressed statewide. Sponsored by Senator Truenow, a supporter of the Florida Association of Mitigation Bankers (FAMB), this legislation introduces a new framework that closely mirrors the success of mitigation banking while opening the door to water quality enhancement credits. The Mitigation Banking

What Is the Uniform Mitigation Assessment Method (UMAM)? A Beginner’s Guide

Understanding UMAM: Florida’s Way of Balancing Development and Wetlands If you’re planning a development project in Florida and have heard something about “wetland mitigation,” chances are you’ll come across something called UMAM. But what exactly is it, and why should you care?   Let’s break it down in simple terms. What Is UMAM? UMAM stands for Uniform Mitigation Assessment Method. It’s a set of rules Florida uses to measure the environmental impact of a project on wetlands and other surface waters.   Think of it like

Applying for a Permit to Authorize Wetland Impacts in Florida

Applying for a Permit to Authorize Wetland Impacts in Florida   Wetlands are among Florida’s most valuable environmental resources. They naturally filter water, control flooding, and provide essential habitats for wildlife. Because of their ecological importance, any activity that proposes to impact wetlands must undergo careful regulatory review through Florida’s Environmental Resource Permit (ERP) program. For developers, landowners, engineers, and environmental consultants, understanding the ERP process is critical to avoiding project delays. Here’s a straightforward breakdown of the steps involved. What Is an ERP

Florida Joins Multi-State Coalition Calling for Clearer WOTUS Rules

Florida’s Position on the Draft WOTUS Rule: Implications for Landowners, Developers, and Environmental Policy On January 5, 2026, Florida joined 20 other states in submitting a formal comment letter to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The letter addresses concerns regarding the agencies’ proposed revision to the definition of “waters of the United States” (WOTUS), urging a more focused and constitutionally sound approach following the Supreme Court’s Sackett decision. Read the full comment letter below: Key Points

Understanding Florida Wetland Impacts: What Landowners and Developers Must Know

Florida wetland impacts

Florida Wetland Impacts: What They Are and Why They Matter In Florida, wetlands are legally protected ecosystems that support water quality, flood protection, and wildlife habitat. When these areas are disturbed—intentionally or not—there are consequences. Wetland impacts refer to any activity that alters the natural structure, function, or condition of a wetland. And in Florida, those impacts are highly regulated. What Counts as a Wetland Impact? Florida law defines wetland impacts broadly. Even routine land management or construction activities can fall under this category