MDEQ Panel
Recent years have seen an increase in the number of dam removal and river restoration projects in the State of Michigan. A panel of MDEQ staff will be on hand to field questions from conference attendees pertaining to permitting requirements, successful completion, and post construction monitoring of these projects. MDEQ is focused on protecting public safety, environmental resources, and the public’s trust in those resources while also allowing for the restoration of function and quality to these valuable ecosystems. The panel will cover the following areas of concern:
Floodplain Authority – Part 31:
- Hydraulic modeling
- Changes is flow characteristics/flood stages
Part 301 – Inland Lakes and Streams:
- Geomorphology/stream function
- Stream restoration/channel design
- In-stream structures (riffles, vanes, j-hooks, large wood, habitat, etc.)
- Dredging/mobilization of sediment
- Sampling/testing requirements
- Sediment management
Part 303 – Wetlands:
- Wetland delineation
- Temporary vs. permanent impacts
- Loss vs. gain
- Mitigation
Part 315 – Dam Safety:
- Safe removal and/or modification of existing dams
- Stabilization of former dam site after removal
Part 201 – Environmental Remediation:
- Exposed bottomlands/terrestrial soils
- Sampling/testing requirements
- Direct human contact
- Due Care responsibilities