Wetlands & Other Aquatic Resources
TerraGenesis provides professional wetland, stream, and aquatic resource services throughout Ohio and the surrounding region. Services include wetland and stream delineations, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers jurisdictional determination support, wetland and stream quality assessments, ordinary high water mark determinations, and aquatic resource restoration and mitigation planning. We help clients identify and understand aquatic resource constraints early so they can make informed decisions and determine appropriate next steps for their projects.
Wetland & Aquatic Resource Services
Wetland & Stream Delineations
Field identification and mapping of wetlands, streams, and other aquatic resources using applicable federal and state methodologies.
USACE Jurisdictional Determination Support
Preparation of aquatic resource documentation and jurisdictional determination request packages for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers review. TerraGenesis will attend site meetings if required by the agency.
Wetland & Stream Quality / Habitat Assessments
Wetland and stream assessments using Ohio EPA methodologies, including the Ohio Rapid Assessment Method (ORAM), Headwater Habitat Evaluation Index (HHEI), and Qualitative Habitat Evaluation Index (QHEI), to evaluate resource quality and habitat conditions for regulatory review, permitting, mitigation, restoration, and project planning. Assessments can also support technical evaluations of wetland buffers and other aquatic resource requirements established by local municipalities or reviewing authorities.
Ordinary High Water Mark Determinations
Field identification and documentation of ordinary high water marks to support stream evaluations, jurisdictional review, permitting, and project planning.
Aquatic Resource Restoration & Mitigation Planning
Technical planning for wetland, stream, and other aquatic resource restoration and mitigation projects, including site assessment, restoration strategies, performance objectives, and regulatory considerations.
PWS Credential
Wetland and aquatic resource services are led by TerraGenesis' Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS), providing experienced, science-based expertise in wetland delineation, aquatic resource assessment, hydric soils, vegetation, hydrology, habitat evaluation, and regulatory requirements affecting wetlands and waterways.
Common Questions About Jurisdictional Determinations
What is a wetland and stream delineation?
A delineation identifies and maps wetlands, streams, and other aquatic resources on a property using applicable field methodologies and environmental indicators.
What is a USACE jurisdictional determination?
A jurisdictional determination is an official U.S. Army Corps of Engineers determination regarding the jurisdictional status of aquatic resources under federal law. TerraGenesis can prepare and submit supporting delineation information and the jurisdictional determination request for agency review.
What are ORAM, HHEI, and QHEI assessments?
ORAM, HHEI, and QHEI are Ohio EPA assessment methodologies used to evaluate wetland and stream quality and habitat conditions. The appropriate assessment depends on the type of aquatic resource and project requirements.
What is an ordinary high water mark determination?
An ordinary high water mark determination identifies physical characteristics associated with the established presence and extent of ordinary high water and can be used in stream evaluations, regulatory reviews, and project planning.
Does every wetland or stream require a federal permit?
No. Regulatory jurisdiction and permitting requirements depend on the aquatic resource, proposed impacts, project location, and applicable federal, state, and local requirements. TerraGenesis can help identify the appropriate regulatory path for a specific project.
Can TerraGenesis assist with wetland and stream restoration projects?
Yes. TerraGenesis provides technical planning and environmental support for wetland, stream, and other aquatic resource restoration and mitigation projects and can also assist with associated permitting and regulatory coordination.
Discuss Your Wetland or Aquatic Resource Needs
Contact TerraGenesis to discuss wetlands, streams, or other aquatic resources on your property and determine the appropriate next steps for your project.