As an individual who has three years of experience as an environmental scientist, I am in strong support of continuing the regulation of the Professional Wetland Delineator (PWD) Certification in Virginia. I have obtained my Wetland Professional in Training (WPIT) certification and I am working on gaining the experience and knowledge to earn a PWD certification. To earn the PWD certification, it takes 4-6 years of practicing wetland delineations in the field and education in biology related to wetland science. This experience and knowledge needed to obtain a PWD certification will prepare me to perform wetland delineations properly and in accordance with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 1987 Delineation Manual, subsequent Regional Supplements, and state regulations, including those applicable to tidal and non-tidal areas.
The unregulated practice of the occupation can harm public health, safety or welfare.
The public needs and will benefit from state assurances of competency.
The public is not protected by other means.
Thank you,
Janelle Bernosky, WPIT