Protecting Florida’s endangered species

A flock of pelicans prune themselves and relax at the waterfront

The US’s Clean Water Act (CWA) protects the nations water resources that support public health, environmental protection, agricultural activity, and economic growth. Administered by the US Environmental Protection Agency and the US Army Corps of Engineers, the permitting process can be complex and time-consuming.

In Florida, this process has delayed many projects, particularly those aimed at restoring the States expansive tropical wetlands system known as the Everglades. To increase efficiency, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) sought authorisation to self-administer the CWA.

The FDEP asked GHD to prepare a Programmatic Biological Assessment to help make their case. Our team was tasked with reviewing their proposed permitting process modifications and analysing the potential effects on threatened and endangered species and their habitats.

Assembling the expert team

Demonstrating the power of collaboration, we assembled a project team of 21 people from more than six different GHD offices across North America to work on this historic project.

The team included technical leaders, subject matter experts, and biologists who set out to address more than 236 threatened and endangered species that live in various ecosystems across Florida. We also coordinated and consulted with staff at numerous state and federal agencies.

The team worked to deliver the draft of the assessment to the FDEP within three months of the notice to proceed. It is believed to be the second-largest programmatic biological assessment prepared in the United States.

Balancing environmental protection with economic development

The successful completion of the assessment was a key component for the FDEP to request administrative authority. As of December 2020, the FDEP is one of only three states with the ability to autonomously administer state wetland permits in accordance with the Clean Water Act.

This action is monumental in supporting the health of Florida’s waters, residents, and economy. The State’s wetlands are a valuable resource – safeguarding communities against the effects of climate change, supporting wildlife habitat, providing tremendous water quality benefits, and mitigating against flooding. Sustaining protections on these diminishing resources will have knock-on benefits for local business, employment, property and tourism.

Not only will this landmark project enable Florida to streamline critical restoration projects, but it will position local environmental experts – with a vested interest in and intimate knowledge of the State’s natural resources – at the helm.