Using the 2021 Interagency Wetland Mitigation Guidance

This class is designed for those who develop mitigation plans and for those who review and approve such plans. The training, which is divided into four modules, is based on the 2021 interagency document, "Wetland Mitigation in Washington State," Part 1, Agency Policies and Guidance.

This class provides an in-depth overview of the contents of Part 1. Topics include mitigation sequencing, site selection, compensation approaches and methods, determining the amount of compensation, buffers, and more. Several class exercises and poll questions allow participants to apply the concepts being taught.

This course does NOT provide technical specifications for how to design or condition mitigation projects. Also, this training will include involve breakout rooms and groupwork. You will have about 1-3 hours of pre-work depending on your background knowledge. The pre-work will be provided to you 1 week before the training. Additionally, you will need a laptop or desktop to participate in this training.(11.0 CM Credits)

Link to guidance: https://ecology.wa.gov/Water-Shorelines/Wetlands/Mitigation/Interagency-guidance

Please reach out to Sara Brostrom (bros461@ecy.wa.gov) if you require an accommodation for this training (audio, visual, mobility, or other). Additionally, we can offer a couple of scholarship to cover the registration fees with each training. Please reach out if you need a scholarship in order to participate in the training.

Instructors

Rick Mraz is a certified Professional Wetland Scientist who works as the Washington Department of Ecology Wetland Policy Lead. He began his career in wetlands work in 1987. He has worked as a field biologist and environmental planner with local and state agencies in Washington since 2001. Rick has degrees in Geology, Field Biology and Philosophy. 

Patricia Johnson is a wetland specialist with the Washington Department of Ecology. She conducted Ecology's Washington State Wetland Mitigation Evaluation Study (Phase 1 and 2) and co-authored Wetlands in Washington - Volume 1: A Synthesis of the Science, the 2006 Interagency guidance document Wetland Mitigation in Washington State, as well as the 2021 update to Part 1. Patricia follows up on wetland mitigation projects to ensure compliance. Patricia has a master’s degree in environmental studies from the Evergreen State College. 

Dana Mock is a wetland mitigation specialist for the Shorelands and Environmental Assistance Program at the Washington State Department of Ecology. She coordinated the development of the 2006 interagency wetland mitigation guidance document "Wetland Mitigation in Washington State," as well as the 2021 update to Part 1. Dana tracks and follows up on wetland mitigation projects across Washington to ensure compliance with the conditions of Section 401 water quality certifications and Administrative Orders for non-federally regulated wetlands.