Wetlands and Drainage Perspective

Comments during the public work group process revealed a polarization of perspectives between many citizens primarily concerned with wetlands preservation relative to citizens primarily concerned with inadequate drainage. Wetlands and drainage proved fertile grounds for debate.

Several possible directions are suggested foraction. The Drainage Code and state legislation addressed to environmental concerns (such as the Flood Control Act) might be harmonized to reflect and help implement both drainage and natural resource goals. A single definition for "wetlands" might be developed for application by state and local agencies, as well as federal agencies to the extent feasible. Consistent procedures might be developed and communicated for the delineation of wetlands. Drainage ditches which are not "waters of the United States" could be identified and treated distinctly from waters of the United States. Standards could be established for the performance of Section 401 water quality certification by the Indiana Department of Environmental Management. Uniform standards could be developed among federal, state, and local agencies for the implementation of mitigation wetlands banking and wetlands quality prioritizations. The State of Indiana could assume primary regulatory authority from the U.S. Army Corps for Section 404 of the Clean Water Act.