Physical Sciences and Mathematics Commons^™

Regulatory Fidelity To Guidance In Virginia’S Tidal Wetlands Program, Center For Coastal Resources Management, Virginia Institute Of Marine Science

Reports

The Commonwealth of Virginia manages its tidal wetlands resources through implementation of the Tidal Wetlands Act (Va. Code §28.2-1300 et seq.). This Act establishes a state-local regulatory program providing the option for local governments located in the coastal zone to voluntarily assume the primary responsibility for local implementation, through a citizen wetlands board, with oversight by the Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC). The Tidal Wetlands Act charges local wetlands boards with balancing the preservation and use of tidal wetlands in order to protect the ecosystem services they provide. In addition, Virginia has an established state policy of no-net loss of …