Services
Wetland, Wildlife and Upland Mitigation
Simply put, mitigation is a way to offset the impact of development on a regulated area or resource. Impacts may include dredging, filling, draining or other substantial changes to wetland habitats. In certain circumstances, mitigation may be required for upland wildlife habitat, such as for gopher tortoise habitat in Florida.
Wetlands mitigation usually takes four forms: onsite preservation, wetland enhancement, wetland creation and mitigation banking. Each form has its benefits and drawbacks, as well as its costs. At OEC, we consider all these factors when trying to satisfy the requirements for an environmental permit.
In Florida, when gopher tortoises are involved, you may need to purchase habitat mitigation credits from the State. Recent scientific work on the conservation status of gopher tortoises is leading to changes in how this process works. In short, gopher tortoises are under significant development pressure in Florida and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is attempting to address this by updating their guidelines. We stay informed about the rule changes so we can advise our clients better.
For mitigation help call us at 904.384.7020.